LeT commander killed in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – A Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander has been killed by security forces in a gunfight in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, police said Monday.

“Acting on specific information about an LeT commander hiding in a house in Gurura village, security forces were moved out Sunday morning to cordon off the area,” a senior police officer told … Read more >>>.

Defense in Blagojevich trial to begin; lawyers for ousted governor’s brother to go first

Defense to start in trial of Blagojevich brothers
CHICAGO – Rod Blagojevich’s brother, a year older than the ousted Illinois governor, will go first again this week as their separate attorneys start presenting their defenses to charges that the two schemed to sell a U.S. Senate seat.
Robert Blagojevich maintains he did nothing wrong in …. Source article  : Defense in Blagojevich trial to begin; lawyers for ousted governor’s brother to go first.

In remarkable turnaround, Georgia softens one of the nation’s toughest sex offender laws

Ga. softens once lauded strict sex offender law

ATLANTA – Georgia was lauded four years ago by conservatives for passing one of the nation’s toughest sex offender laws. But the state has had to significantly – and without fanfare – scale back its once-intense restrictions.
Georgia’s old law was challenged by civil liberties groups even before it …. Source article  : In remarkable turnaround, Georgia softens one of the nation’s toughest sex offender laws.

EMT accused of ignoring a dying pregnant woman during his break is killed near NYC nightclub

EMT accused of ignoring dying NYC woman is killed

NEW YORK – An emergency medical technician accused of refusing to help a dying pregnant woman while on his coffee break has been shot and killed near a New York City nightclub.
Police say Jason Green was shot in the face near Manhattan’s Greenhouse club Sunday morning. Green …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : EMT accused of ignoring a dying pregnant woman during his break is killed near NYC nightclub.

Low-key ceremony marks anniversary of assassination of Myanmar’s founding father Gen. Aung San

Ceremony for Myanmar’s assassinated Gen. Aung San

YANGON, Myanmar – Myanmar held a low-key ceremony Monday to mark the anniversary of the 1947 assassination of independence hero Gen. Aung San – father of detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
Suu Kyi, who is under house arrest, did not attend the Martyr’s Day event, which marks the …. Source  : Low-key ceremony marks anniversary of assassination of Myanmar’s founding father Gen. Aung San.

Dhaka slaps four cases against Indian militant

DHAKA – Bangladesh authorities have slapped four cases against Indian militant Ranjan Chowdhury and his associate whose arrest was announced Saturday.

A court in Kishoreganj in northeastern region remanded the two men, who belong to the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), to three days’s custody of the paramilitary Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).
The cases have … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dhaka slaps four cases against Indian militant.

Singapore arrests British writer of death penalty book in defamation probe

Singapore arrests British writer for defamation

SINGAPORE – Singaporean police said Monday they arrested a British author as part of a criminal defamation investigation related to his book on the city-state’s death penalty policy.
Alan Shadrake, 75, was in Singapore to promote the book and was arrested Sunday, police said in a statement.
He hosted an event the …. Read the original article  : Singapore arrests British writer of death penalty book in defamation probe.

Police: Armed man hospitalized after traffic stop turns into shootout on Oakland freeway

Suspect hospitalized in Oakland freeway shootout

OAKLAND, Calif. – A convicted felon armed with three guns and wearing a bulletproof vest opened fire on California Highway Patrol officers for several minutes during a traffic stop on an Oakland freeway Sunday before he was shot several times and wounded, authorities said.
Byron Christopher Williams, 45, of Groveland was … Read more : Police: Armed man hospitalized after traffic stop turns into shootout on Oakland freeway.

Police: Man found dead at Washington state home of suspect wanted in attack that killed woman

Body found at Washington home of homicide suspect

SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. – A SWAT team searching for the suspect in an early Sunday morning attack that left a woman dead and her 9-year-old son on life support found him dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said.
Detectives said the body of 39-year-old Jan R. Demeerleer … Read : Police: Man found dead at Washington state home of suspect wanted in attack that killed woman.

Inmates flee after blast in Afghan jail

KABUL – At least 19 inmates escaped after a bomb went off at the main gate of a prison in western Afghanistan Sunday, officials said.

The blast occurred around 3 a.m. at the prison in Farah province, which holds 400 inmates, provincial police chief Faqir Askar said.
Eight were rearrested later, but 11 are still … Original source on Gaea Times at : Inmates flee after blast in Afghan jail.

Investigators: Argument caused shooting at Wash. state park that left 2 dead, 4 wounded

Argument led to deadly Wash. state park shooting

SEATTLE – A shooting at a state park near Seattle that left two dead and four wounded stemmed from an argument between two groups, one of which was celebrating a birthday party, investigators said Sunday.
King County Sheriff’s Sgt. John Urquhart said killed in the shooting Saturday night at … Original article on : Investigators: Argument caused shooting at Wash. state park that left 2 dead, 4 wounded.

Law enforcers on alert for feuds in Caribbean’s drug underworld after reputed kingpin’s arrest

Puerto Rico on alert after drug fugitive’s arrest

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – With the Caribbean’s biggest reputed drug lord back behind bars, law enforcement authorities in the region are on alert for potential bloody feuds among rivals and lieutenants trying to take his place.
The Saturday capture of Jose Figueroa Agosto in Puerto Rico’s capital after …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Law enforcers on alert for feuds in Caribbean’s drug underworld after reputed kingpin’s arrest.

Investigators: Shooting at Wash. state park that left 2 dead, 4 wounded stemmed from argument

Shooting at Wash. state park stemmed from argument

SEATTLE – Investigators say a shooting at a state park near Seattle that left two dead and four wounded stemmed from an argument between two groups of people, one of which was celebrating a birthday party.
King County Sheriff’s Sgt. John Uruquhart said Sunday the two people killed during …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Investigators: Shooting at Wash. state park that left 2 dead, 4 wounded stemmed from argument.

Gunmen storm party of young people in northern Mexico, officials say 17 slain

Officials say gunmen kill 17 at party in Mexico

PIEDRAS NEGRAS, Mexico – Gunmen stormed a party in northern Mexico on Sunday and massacred 17 people, authorities said.
The assailants arrived at the gathering in the city of Torreon in several cars and opened fire without saying a word, the Coahuila state Attorney General’s Office said in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gunmen storm party of young people in northern Mexico, officials say 17 slain.

A duel of wits and wills: Blagojevich likely to take the stand at corruption trial this week

Ex-Gov. Blagojevich likely to testify this week
CHICAGO – After promising for a year and a half to take the witness stand, Rod Blagojevich is likely to testify in his own defense at his federal corruption trial this week in a long-awaited duel of wits and wills with federal prosecutors.
Unlike in his TV interviews, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pink Panthers, elusive jewel thieves who rob but never kill, on way to becoming legend

Balkan Pink Panthers stuff of local legend

CETINJE, Montenegro – Their nickname comes straight from Peter Sellers and Inspector Clouseau, but there’s nothing bumbling about them.
In heists from London to Paris to Tokyo, the crime ring that Interpol calls the Pink Panthers is thought to have netted a quarter billion dollars in jewelry and luxury watches. … Read more : Pink Panthers, elusive jewel thieves who rob but never kill, on way to becoming legend.

Clinton pushes greater Afghanistan-Pakistan cooperation on trade, fight against extremists

Clinton seeks more Pakistan-Afghan cooperation
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and Afghanistan sealed a landmark trade deal Sunday as U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton pushed the two neighbors to step up civilian cooperation and work together against al-Qaida and the Taliban.
Shortly after kicking off a South Asia trip aimed at refining the goals of … Original article on : Clinton pushes greater Afghanistan-Pakistan cooperation on trade, fight against extremists.

Police: Suspect sought after woman killed, 2 sons hurt in attack at Washington state home

Police: Mom killed, 2 sons hurt in Wash. attack

SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. – Authorities on Sunday were looking for a man who they allege killed a woman and left one of her sons on life support and another with serious injuries after attacking them at their eastern Washington home.
Spokane Valley police said the suspect, 39-year-old Jan … Read more : Police: Suspect sought after woman killed, 2 sons hurt in attack at Washington state home.

Tariq Aziz, ex-regime members back in Iraqi court after leaving US custody, says official

Tariq Aziz back in Iraqi court, says official

BAGHDAD – Former Iraqi Foreign Minister Tariq Aziz and several other members of Saddam Hussein’s regime appeared in court Sunday just days after their handover from the U.S. to Iraqi custody, an Iraqi official said.
Deputy Justice Minister Busho Ibrahim said Aziz, 74, and the other members of the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tariq Aziz, ex-regime members back in Iraqi court after leaving US custody, says official.

Authorities: Mother dead, 2 sons hurt in domestic attack in Wash. state; suspect at large

1 dead, 2 sons hurt in Wash. domestic attack

SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. – A woman is dead, one of her sons is on life support, and another son has serious injuries after what police are calling a deadly domestic violence situation at an eastern Washington home.
Spokane Valley police say the suspect, 39-year-old Jan R. Demeerleer, remains …. Source article  : Authorities: Mother dead, 2 sons hurt in domestic attack in Wash. state; suspect at large.

Militants in Pakistan get official patronage: NSA

NEW DELHI – The interrogation of Pakistani-American David Coleman Headley, who helped the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in plotting the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, points to official patronage of terror groups, National Security Adviser (NSA) Shivshankar Menon said Tuesday.

Without naming Pakistan, Menon said the nexus had left no room for India to be optimistic as the …. Original article  : Militants in Pakistan get official patronage: NSA.

Terror roots will deepen if basic amenities lacking: US envoy

AGARTALA – The “roots of terrorism” would deepen if basic amenities were not provided to the people, US Consul General in Kolkata Beth A. Payne said here Tuesday.

“If the authority failed to provide basic facilities including food, health and education, the roots of terrorism would go further deeper,” Payne told reporters.
The Kolkata-based …. Source  : Terror roots will deepen if basic amenities lacking: US envoy.

Headley questioning reveals militant, official establishment link: NSA

NEW DELHI – Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley’s interrogation has pointed to links between official establishments and militants, which are growing “stronger”, National Security Adviser (NSA) Shivshankar Menon said Tuesday.

Without naming Pakistan, the NSA said the nexus has left no room for India to be optimistic.
“Headley’s interrogation has revealed militant link with official establishments … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Headley questioning reveals militant, official establishment link: NSA.

AP Interview: Rwandan minister denies any government role in three high-profile attacks

Rwanda minister denies government role in attacks

NEW YORK – Rwanda’s foreign minister on Monday vehemently denied the government was involved in three recent high-profile attacks on opponents, saying investigators and journalists should be searching for people trying to create chaos ahead of upcoming elections.
Critics claim the Rwandan government is cracking down on dissent ahead of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Police say Pakistan army kills 3 suspected suicide bombers at firing range; 4 soldiers wounded

Pakistan police say army kills 3 suspected bombers

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Army guards shot and killed three suspected suicide bombers as they tried to enter a sprawling military firing range in northwestern Pakistan on Tuesday, police said.
Four soldiers were wounded in the attack, which showed the persistent threat insurgents pose to Pakistan’s security forces, especially those …. Source article  : Police say Pakistan army kills 3 suspected suicide bombers at firing range; 4 soldiers wounded.

North Korean spy and plane bomber visits Japan

TOKYO – A former North Korean spy who blew up a South Korean plane in 1987, arrived in Tokyo early Tuesday to meet with the families of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korean agents, news reports said.

Kim Hyon Hui, convicted of bombing a Korean Air jetliner and killing 115 people on board, was heavily guarded … Original source on Gaea Times at : North Korean spy and plane bomber visits Japan.

North Korean spy and plane bomber visits Japan

TOKYO – A former North Korean spy who blew up a South Korean plane in 1987, arrived in Tokyo early Tuesday to meet with the families of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korean agents, news reports said.

Kim Hyon Hui, convicted of bombing a Korean Air jetliner and killing 115 people on board, was heavily guarded … Read more »»».

Sentencing delayed for Hawaii farm owners who imported Thai workers for forced labor

Sentencing delayed in Hawaii forced labor case

HONOLULU – The sentencing of the owners of Hawaii’s second-largest fruit and vegetable farm who were convicted of importing laborers from Thailand to force them to work has been delayed for two months.
Chief U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway heard requests by Aloun Farms President Alec Souphone Sou and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sentencing delayed for Hawaii farm owners who imported Thai workers for forced labor.

Blast rocks Kabul hours before international conference

KABUL – An explosion rocked Kabul Tuesday morning hours before a major international conference is slated to be held in the Afghan capital.

Witnesses in northern outskirts of Kabul said they heard the explosion, but Afghan security officials were not available for comment.
At least four explosions were also heard near city’s international airport Monday night, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Blast rocks Kabul hours before international conference.

LA foster mother, boyfriend charged in hammer death of 2-year-old girl

LA couple charged in toddler’s hammer death

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles foster mother has been charged with murder and her boyfriend with being as an accessory in the killing of a 2-year-old girl who was struck with a hammer.
Police said Monday that 30-year-old Kiana Barker was arrested last week on murder and child abuse … Read : LA foster mother, boyfriend charged in hammer death of 2-year-old girl.

Maoist arrested in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A rebel wanted in at least 11 cases related to Maoist violence has been arrested from Orissa’s Gajapti district, police said Tuesday.

Jacob Majhi, 40, was arrested Monday from his native village Ludingi, about 400 km from Bhubaneswar.
He was sent to judicial custody after his bail petition was rejected by a local court, [..] Read the original article: here.

Give us intelligence on Al Qaeda: US tells Pakistan

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has asked Pakistan to give US intelligence on Al Qaeda and its elusive leader Osama bin Laden as it’s personal between her and the terror group.

“I want those guys,” she said. “I assume somebody in this (Pakistani) government, from top to bottom, does know where bin Laden … Read more >>>.

Singapore releases on bail British death penalty author investigated for defamation

Singapore releases UK author in defamation case

SINGAPORE – Singapore released on bail Tuesday a British author arrested two days earlier as part of a criminal defamation investigation related to his book on the city-state’s death penalty policy.
Alan Shadrake, a 75-year old freelance journalist, posted $10,000 Singapore dollars ($7,250) bail, said his lawyer, M. Ravi. Police …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Singapore releases on bail British death penalty author investigated for defamation.

Ex-North Korean spy who blew up jetliner arrives in Japan to meet abductee families

Ex-NKorean spy who blew up jetliner visits Japan
TOKYO – A former North Korean spy who blew up a South Korean jetliner more than 20 years ago arrived in Japan on Tuesday to meet the families of Japanese kidnapped by the reclusive regime, including one she says coached her on Japanese culture.
Kim Hyon-hui was …. Source  : Ex-North Korean spy who blew up jetliner arrives in Japan to meet abductee families.

US citizen behind Al Qaeda magazine

WASHINGTON – A Saudi-born American citizen may be behind the new online English magazine published by terror outfit Al Qaeda, US officials claimed.

Samir Khan, who left the US in 2009 and now lives in Yemen, is responsible for several of the online blogs, Herald Sun quoted unnamed US officials as telling Fox News.
The online … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US citizen behind Al Qaeda magazine.

US Marine commander once accused of dereliction in Iraqi killings investigation leaves Corps

US Marine officer in Haditha case leaves service

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – A Camp Pendleton Marine officer who was accused of failing to investigate the killings of 24 Iraqis by a squad in the town of Haditha has left the service.
Attorney Jon Shelburne says Lt. Col. Jeffrey Chessani’s last day in the Corps was Friday.
Shelburne said … Read : US Marine commander once accused of dereliction in Iraqi killings investigation leaves Corps.

Arizona AG’s Office asked to conduct criminal investigation of Fiesta Bowl campaign donations

Fiesta campaign donations claims referred to AG

PHOENIX – The Arizona Attorney General’s Office has been asked to conduct a criminal investigation into claims that current and former Fiesta Bowl employees made illegal campaign contributions to politicians friendly to the bowl.
Secretary of State Ken Bennett requested the probe in a letter to Attorney General Terry Goddard …. Original source  : Arizona AG’s Office asked to conduct criminal investigation of Fiesta Bowl campaign donations.

Abducted 7-year-old Calif. girl loves YouTube and Justin Bieber, says Ariz. man who raised her

Abducted girl was loved, says man who raised her

PHOENIX – Members of an Arizona family that raised a 7-year-old girl abducted from California as a toddler say it’s not uncommon in their Gypsy culture for families to take care of children born to other couples.
The man who acted as a father to the child legally …. Read the original article  : Abducted 7-year-old Calif. girl loves YouTube and Justin Bieber, says Ariz. man who raised her.

Attorney: Prosecutors scapegoating 3 men charged in deadly blaze at toxic ground zero tower

Att’y: 3 men scapegoated in NYC toxic tower fire

NEW YORK – A defense lawyer says three construction officials are being unfairly blamed for a blaze that killed two New York City firefighters at a condemned ground zero skyscraper.
Edward Little told a judge Monday prosecutors are “scapegoating” small players for regulatory failures at the former Deutsche … Read more >>.

Ex-priest in Wis. sex abuse settlement removed from volunteer post with Mo. Special Olympics

Mo. Special Olympics ousts ex-priest over abuse

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A former Roman Catholic priest who was part of a $5 million sex abuse settlement in Wisconsin two decades ago was suspended from a volunteer position with Special Olympics Missouri and has admitted some of the abuse.
Mark Musso, president and CEO of Special Olympics Missouri, … Read more : Ex-priest in Wis. sex abuse settlement removed from volunteer post with Mo. Special Olympics.

UN court orders retrial for former Kosovo prime minister acquitted of war crimes

UN court orders retrial for former Kosovo PM

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – The Yugoslav war crimes tribunal on Wednesday ordered a partial retrial for former Kosovo prime minister Ramush Haradinaj, calling his acquittal two years ago on charges of murder, rape and torture a miscarriage of justice.
Tribunal President Patrick Robinson said the original trial of Haradinaj …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UN court orders retrial for former Kosovo prime minister acquitted of war crimes.

Taliban behead six Afghan policemen

KABUL – Taliban fighters overran a police checkpoint in northern Afghanistan and beheaded six police officers, NATO said Wednesday.

“During the attack, insurgents overran a police checkpoint and killed the police officers by cutting off their heads,” a statement by the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said.
The Afghan police “successfully repelled” Tuesday’s attack on …. Read the original article  : Taliban behead six Afghan policemen.

Will Blagojevich backpedal on vow to testify at corruption trial? Decision to come quickly

Will Blagojevich backpedal on vow to testify?
CHICAGO – Will he or won’t he testify?
That was the question hanging in the air about former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich as his corruption trial was set to resume Wednesday.
The impeached governor’s attorneys dropped a bombshell at the end of the day Tuesday when they said they … Original source on Gaea Times at : Will Blagojevich backpedal on vow to testify at corruption trial? Decision to come quickly.

US has spent $1 trillion on wars since 9/11

WASHINGTON – The United States has spent more than $1 trillion on wars since the Sep 11, 2001, terror attacks, making it the second most expensive war in US history after World War II.

Adjusting for inflation, the outlays for conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere around the world make the “war on terrorism” second only …. Source article  : US has spent $1 trillion on wars since 9/11.

Ex-media mogul accused of defrauding investors could leave prison Wed., judge to set terms

Ex-media mogul Conrad Black may leave prison Wed.

CHICAGO – Former media mogul Conrad Black could stroll out of federal prison Wednesday just two years into the 6??-year sentence he received for defrauding investors out of millions of dollars, but whether he’ll be a free man isn’t yet clear.
U.S. District Judge Amy St. Eve will set …. Source  : Ex-media mogul accused of defrauding investors could leave prison Wed., judge to set terms.

Despite short jail stint, Lindsay Lohan’s sentence doesn’t allow for quick comeback

Despite short jail stint, Lohan won’t be back soon

LOS ANGELES – Lindsay Lohan’s time in jail will be short, but her time away from the public eye will be much longer.
Sheriff’s officials say the actress will spend only about two weeks of a 90-day sentence in jail. But her brief time in an isolation cell …. Original article  : Despite short jail stint, Lindsay Lohan’s sentence doesn’t allow for quick comeback.

Autopsy scheduled on unidentified body found amid search for missing California teenager

Autopsy scheduled on unidentified Calif. body

MORENO VALLEY, Calif. – An autopsy was scheduled Wednesday on an unidentified body found several miles from where a 17-year-old Southern California girl disappeared on her way home from a summer school class last week.
Riverside County sheriff’s Deputy Melissa Nieburger said investigators were proceeding cautiously and wouldn’t be able to … Original article on : Autopsy scheduled on unidentified body found amid search for missing California teenager.

Oakland City Council approves plan that would permit large-scale marijuana farms

Oakland votes to permit large pot farms
SAN FRANCISCO – The Oakland City Council has approved a plan to license four production plants where marijuana would be grown, packaged and processed, moving Oakland closer to becoming the first city in the nation to authorize wholesale pot cultivation.

The council voted 5-2 with one abstention late Tuesday in …. Source article  : Oakland City Council approves plan that would permit large-scale marijuana farms.

Amit Jethwa, RTI Activist Murdered

GUJARAT, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The murder of eminent RTI activist Amit Jethwa has created shock waves in Gujarat. Also called the Green Crusader Amit Jethwa was shot by some assailants near the High court of Gujarat on Tuesday. He was fighting to stop the illegal mining in the areas adjacent to the Gir forest and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Amit Jethwa, RTI Activist Murdered.

Afghan soldier shot and killed Americans over dispute at firing range: Afghan Defense Ministry

Afghan gov’t: Soldier shot Americans amid argument

KABUL, Afghanistan – An Afghan soldier opened fire on U.S. civilian trainers at an army base in northern Afghanistan, killing two Americans before being shot dead, the Defense Ministry said Wednesday.
An argument started during a weapons-training exercise and the Afghan soldier turned his gun on the Americans on Tuesday, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Afghan soldier shot and killed Americans over dispute at firing range: Afghan Defense Ministry.

Two killed in Russia terror attack

Moscow, July 21 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least two people were killed and one injured in two suspected terror attacks at a hydropower plant and a police building in Russia’s volatile North Caucasus region Wednesday, a law enforcement source said.

“Unknown assailants believed to be militant fighters burst into the Baksan hydropower plant in the village of …. Original article  : Two killed in Russia terror attack.

Japanese prime minister hopeful visit by ex-North Korean spy will help resolve abductee issue

Japan PM: Ex-NKorean spy visit will help abductees
TOKYO – Japan’s prime minister says he hopes a media-saturated visit by a former North Korean spy will help bring home Japanese kidnapped by the communist country decades ago – despite claims that all living abductees were repatriated.
North Korea admitted in 2002 it abducted 13 … Read : Japanese prime minister hopeful visit by ex-North Korean spy will help resolve abductee issue.

Times Square bomb: Shahzad used inferior explosives

WASHINGTON – The Times Square bomb made the right way “would have killed thousands of people” but Pakistani American bomber Faisal Shahzad used inferior explosives to avoid detection, according to media reports.

“He tried to lessen the explosive nature of the fertiliser that was used because he thought he would get a higher profile as he … Original source on Gaea Times at : Times Square bomb: Shahzad used inferior explosives.

Two terrorists, soldier killed in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – Two separatist guerrillas, including a top commander of the Harkat-ul-Mujaheedin (HuM), and a soldier were killed in a fierce gunfight in Jammu and Kashmir’s Sopore town, police said Wednesday.

A senior police officer said security forces surrounded a house in Hygam village under Sopore police district, 48 km from here, early Tuesday on specific … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two terrorists, soldier killed in Kashmir gunfight.

War against Maoists will be long-drawn: Raman Singh (Interview)

RAIPUR – His state is the worst to be hit by Maoist insurgency in India. But despite a series of deadly attacks in 2010, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh is confident that his government is “capable of finishing” the rebels although the war will be “long-drawn”.

“The Chhattisgarh government is not losing the war against … Read : War against Maoists will be long-drawn: Raman Singh (Interview).

Obama vows to keep up war in Afghanistan

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has vowed to continue the war in Afghanistan to deny an even larger safe haven to Al Qaeda terrorists trained in Afghanistan and the tribal regions along the Pakistani border.

“This is not an easy fight. But it is a necessary one,” he said at the White House Tuesday after … Read more : Obama vows to keep up war in Afghanistan.

Guyanese suspect denies role in 2007 plot to blow up fuel tanks at JFK airport in NYC

Suspect denies role in JFK airport plot in NYC

NEW YORK – A former member of Parliament in Guyana has testified that he was not involved in a 2007 plot to blow up New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Former Guyanese official Abdul Kadir and co-defendant Russell Defreitas are on trial in federal court in Brooklyn.
Prosecutors … Read more »»».

Congressional report: US doesn’t effectively track funding _ or impact _ of Mexico drug aid

GAO report: Mexico drug aid needs better oversight
MEXICO CITY – The U.S. State Department has no effective way to measure the success of its billion-dollar program to help Mexico and Central America fight drug traffickers, a congressional report concludes.
Slow implementation of the program forced Mexico at least once to buy some [..] Read the original article: here.

12-year dispute over ‘Portrait of Wally’ ends with acknowledgement it was stolen by Nazi agent

NY stolen art fight ends in $19 million settlement

NEW YORK – A 12-year dispute that illustrated the difficulty of proving art was stolen by Nazis in World War II ended Tuesday with an agreement that a 1912 oil painting entitled “Portrait of Wally” will be returned to a Vienna museum and displayed with an acknowledgement … Read more »»».

After proclaiming desire to testify, ousted Ill. Gov. Blagojevich may remain silent at trial

Ex-Ill. Gov Blagojevich may remain silent at trial
CHICAGO – Since the day federal agents arrested Rod Blagojevich, the ousted Illinois governor hasn’t missed a chance to proclaim his innocence. On talk shows. On stage with the comedians of “Second City.” To reporters while jogging down a snow-covered … Original article on : After proclaiming desire to testify, ousted Ill. Gov. Blagojevich may remain silent at trial.

Norma Lopez: Moreno Valley Body Identified As Teen’s

MORENO VALLEY (GaeaTimes.com)- On Wednesday, the authorities confirmed to media sources that the partially decomposed body which was found at the outskirts of Moreno Valley is that of Norma Lopez. The Sheriff’s spokesman Joseph Borja said to media sources that the authorities were able to positively identify the body of Norma Lopez after an … Original article on : Norma Lopez: Moreno Valley Body Identified As Teen’s.

After 2 years on the run, ‘Barefoot Bandit’ to make first federal court appearance in Seattle

‘Barefoot Bandit’ to make Seattle court appearance

SEATTLE – The young man accused of being the “Barefoot Bandit” is scheduled to make his first court appearance Thursday in Seattle, one day after returning to the state where authorities say his crime-spree started.
After a two-year run from the law that stretched across the nation and to the … Read : After 2 years on the run, ‘Barefoot Bandit’ to make first federal court appearance in Seattle.

Parents warned to watch their children after 17-year-old Southern California girl found slain

Calif. girl, 17, slain; parents told to watch kids

MORENO VALLEY, Calif. – Parents have been warned to keep an eye on their children and take extra safety precautions after a 17-year-old Southern California girl was apparently abducted about a block from her school and killed.
An autopsy confirmed the identity of Norma Lopez Wednesday, six days …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Parents warned to watch their children after 17-year-old Southern California girl found slain.

Texas mom told 911 operator she killed her autistic children because she wanted ‘normal kids’

Texas mom tells 911 she used wire to kill children

DALLAS – A suburban Dallas woman accused of killing her two young children told a 911 operator that she first tried to poison them because they were autistic and she wanted “normal kids,” then choked them with a wire until they stopped moving, according to the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Father-son lawyers claim rift at trial, elder prevails to keep ex-Ill. governor off stand

Father-son lawyers claim rift at Blagojevich trial
CHICAGO – Father knows best.
Standing before a forest of microphones after former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced that he wouldn’t testify at his corruption trial as he’d promised, defense lawyers Sam Adam Sr. and Sam Adam Jr. wasted no time explaining why their client opted [..] Read the original article: here.

Texas mom told 911 operator she strangled her 2 autistic children, wanted ‘normal kids’

Texas mom told 911 she used wire to kill children

DALLAS – A suburban Dallas mother accused of killing her two young children told a 911 operator she choked them with a wire after trying to poison them.
Saiqa Akhter also told the dispatcher that she killed her 5-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter because they were autistic … Original source on Gaea Times at : Texas mom told 911 operator she strangled her 2 autistic children, wanted ‘normal kids’.

Osama in Pakistan-Afghanistan tribal belt: US

WASHINGTON – The US says elusive Al Qaeda terrorist leader Osama bin Laden is in the tribal areas between Afghanistan and Pakistan though the Pakistani government at its top levels may not know about it.

Asked about a statement by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton that some elements in the Pakistani government knew about bin Laden’s …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Osama in Pakistan-Afghanistan tribal belt: US.

Alaska couple pleads guilty to lying to FBI about hit list targeting enemies of Islam

Alaska pair pleads guilty to lying about hit list

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A National Weather Service employee and his British-born wife pleaded guilty Wednesday to domestic terrorism charges of lying to the FBI about a hit list of possible targets who the couple suspected were enemies of Islam.
Paul Rockwood Jr. and his wife, Nadia Rockwood, of …. Source  : Alaska couple pleads guilty to lying to FBI about hit list targeting enemies of Islam.

Authorities fatally shoot suspect during a marijuana search in Northern California

Suspect shot and killed during Calif. pot search

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Authorities have shot and killed a suspect during a marijuana eradication operation in Northern California.
A Santa Clara County sheriff’s spokesman says deputies from Santa Clara and Alameda counties were combing a rugged and remote area looking for marijuana gardens when a suspect was fatally …. Source article  : Authorities fatally shoot suspect during a marijuana search in Northern California.

Orange County dentist convicted of killing 3 with anesthesia overdoses is granted parole

Orange County dentist granted parole
FOLSOM, Calif. – An Orange County dentist convicted in 1984 of killing three patients was granted parole Wednesday, his attorney said.

Tony Protopappas was convicted of second-degree murder in 1984 and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for killing two women and a girl by giving them the wrong dose …. Read the original article  : Orange County dentist convicted of killing 3 with anesthesia overdoses is granted parole.

California dentist convicted of killing 3 with anesthesia overdoses is granted parole

Killer California dentist granted parole
FOLSOM, Calif. – A Southern California dentist convicted in 1984 of killing three patients has been granted parole.

Tony Protopappas was granted parole Wednesday at a hearing at Folsom State Prison. An appeals court ruled in March that Protopappas should be freed unless prosecutors proved he was still a danger to society.
Protopappas …. Source article  : California dentist convicted of killing 3 with anesthesia overdoses is granted parole.

Color Me Badd singer Bryan Abrams arrested in Honolulu for alleged domestic violence

Color Me Badd singer arrested for domestic abuse

HONOLULU – Authorities say a singer with the 1990s R&B band Color Me Badd has been arrested in Hawaii following a fight with his wife.
Honolulu police say 40-year-old Bryan Abrams was arrested Tuesday after getting into an argument with his wife and throwing her across the room.
Abrams was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Color Me Badd singer Bryan Abrams arrested in Honolulu for alleged domestic violence.

33-year-old mystery solved: DNA ties late husband to wife’s 1977 slaying in Washington state

1977 Washington state cold case homicide solved

EVERETT, Wash. – Sheriff’s detectives in Washington state say they have solved a homicide that has been a mystery for 33 years, since 24-year-old Marsha Sitton was found strangled in the back seat of her car on June 24, 1977.
The prosecutor in Everett said Wednesday that if Sitton’s husband, … Read more : 33-year-old mystery solved: DNA ties late husband to wife’s 1977 slaying in Washington state.

Northern California man charged in freeway shootout ordered to return to court Aug. 11

New hearing set for alleged Calif. freeway shooter

OAKLAND, Calif. – The California man charged after a weekend shootout with police on an Oakland freeway is due back in court next month after additional charges were filed against him.
Byron Williams faces four counts of attempted murder on peace officers, as well as enhancements for firearms, body …. Original article  : Northern California man charged in freeway shootout ordered to return to court Aug. 11.

Wife of Pirates player pleads guilty after being accused of stealing baby and faking pregnancy

Baseball player’s wife pleads guilty to kidnapping

TAMPA, Fla. – A woman accused of faking a pregnancy and stealing a baby to fool her baseball player husband into thinking he was the father has pled guilty.
Amalia Tabata-Pereira, 44, pled guilty in Hillsborough Circuit Court on Wednesday on charges of kidnapping, interference with custody and impersonating a … Read more >>>.

Headley disclosures are a fit case for RTI (Comment)

The rash of leaks from disclosures made by key Mumbai terror plotter David Coleman Headley gives a glimpse into the reasons why he managed to strike a deal with the US authorities to take the death penalty and extradition to India off the table.

Although such conclusions can never be officially confirmed, it is obvious that … Original article on : Headley disclosures are a fit case for RTI (Comment).

Trial under way for California woman accused of putting baby born from affair in trash bin

Trial begins in case of Calif. baby found in trash

FULLERTON, Calif. – Opening statements have begun in the trial of a Southern California woman accused of putting her newborn baby in a trash bin because she became pregnant during an affair.
Prosecutors on Wednesday showed jurors in Orange County a photo of a healthy baby girl … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Trial under way for California woman accused of putting baby born from affair in trash bin.

2nd shooting in month against NATO troops casts doubt on Afghan forces

2nd shooting in month casts doubt on Afghan forces

KABUL, Afghanistan – The second shooting of Western troops by one of their Afghan counterparts this month has highlighted the potential hazards of a push to speedily expand Afghanistan’s army and police forces in the next few years.
On Tuesday, an Afghan army sergeant opened fire at an … Read more >>>.

Foxy Brown arrested in NYC for allegedly violating order of protection; police mum on details

Foxy Brown arrested in NY over order of protection

NEW YORK – Police say rapper Foxy Brown has been arrested in New York City for allegedly violating an order of protection.
A police spokesman said he had no details on the arrest Wednesday in Brooklyn, which is not Brown’s first brush with the law.
Brown pleaded guilty in …. Read the original article  : here.

Man convicted of killing young boy gets 200-year minimum prison sentence

200-year minimum set for man who killed young boy

HONOLULU – The Hawaii Paroling Authority has written the final chapter in the prosecution of one of the most shocking murder cases in Hawaii in recent years.
The panel on Wednesday set a 200-year minimum term for a Honolulu man convicted of killing a 23-month-old boy. Matthew Higa, [..] Read the original article: here.

Kishenji aide, three other Maoists arrested

KOLKATA – Four top Maoists, including one who was wanted for the 2007 killing of Jharkhand MP Sunil Mahato and is a close aide of rebel leader Kishenji, were arrested in West Bengal Friday, police said.

The Maoists were identified as Rajesh Munda, Rajesh Hansda, Mongol Soren and Gopinath Mandi. “The four hardcore Maoists were arrested … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kishenji aide, three other Maoists arrested.

Tackling Maoism in tribal areas to top high-level meet Saturday

NEW DELHI – Ways to tackle leftwing extremism in 33 affected districts, especially in tribal areas, will top of the agenda of the 55th meeting of the National Development Council (NDC) to be chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here Saturday.

Ahead of the day-long meeting, to be attended by all chief ministers and key members … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tackling Maoism in tribal areas to top high-level meet Saturday.

Court appearance set for couple charged in fatal stabbing outside Beverly Hills home

Court hearing set in fatal Beverly Hills stabbing

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – A couple charged with murder in the fatal stabbing of a movie producer’s son are scheduled to make their first court appearance Friday in Beverly Hills.
Scott Joseph Barker, 23, and Chie Alexandra Coggins Johnson, 20, were charged Thursday with killing Katsutoshi Takazato, whose body … Read more : Court appearance set for couple charged in fatal stabbing outside Beverly Hills home.

France says it helped Mauritania in operation against suspected al-Qaida extremists

France says it aided African anti-terror crackdown

PARIS – France’s military says it provided technical and logistics support to Mauritanian forces in an operation against suspected al-Qaida extremists alleged to have been preparing an attack.
The Defense Ministry says the operation led by the Mauritanians “neutralized the group of terrorists and prevented a planned attack against Mauritanian …. Source  : France says it helped Mauritania in operation against suspected al-Qaida extremists.

Older sister of 17-year-old girl abducted and killed pleads with the murderer to surrender

Slain Calif. teen’s sister urges killer to give up

MORENO VALLEY, Calif. – Norma Lopez went through life with a joy that touched everyone who met her – and even after her abduction and murder, she left those closest to her with a smile.
The morning Lopez, 17, was kidnapped, she fixed her older sister a peanut …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Older sister of 17-year-old girl abducted and killed pleads with the murderer to surrender.

US commander to talk anti-terror cooperation with India

NEW DELHI – The highest ranking officer of the US armed forces, Admiral Michael Mullen, will Friday meet Defence Minister A.K. Antony and other officials here to discuss terror concerns and counter-terrorism cooperation of the two countries.

Mullen, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, arrived in India late Thursday. He will hold talks with Antony [..] Read the original article: here.

Judge mulling Arizona immigration law notes the everyday realities of porous Mexico border

Ariz. judge raises the realities of porous border

PHOENIX – The judge who will decide whether Arizona’s new immigration law is constitutional hasn’t indicated whether she’ll put the statute on hold before it takes effect next week and had some poignant questions Thursday for challengers at two court hearings.
U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton also went beyond …. Source  : Judge mulling Arizona immigration law notes the everyday realities of porous Mexico border.

Arrests of 2 journalists signal police vigilance at NY site where Clinton’s wedding expected

Expect vigilance at likely NY Clinton wedding site
RHINEBECK, N.Y. – For the curious looking to snap a picture or wander the grounds where the daughter of a former president and a sitting secretary of state is expected to get married, police have some advice: Cut it out or face arrest.
State troopers working with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Arrests of 2 journalists signal police vigilance at NY site where Clinton’s wedding expected.

3 top administrators whose huge salaries sparked outrage in California city have resigned

Calif. council accepts resignations of 3 managers

BELL, Calif. – Three top administrators whose huge salaries sparked outrage in the Los Angeles County city of Bell have resigned.
Council members emerged from a more than six-hour meeting early Friday and announced that they had accepted the resignations of Chief Administrative Officer Robert Rizzo, Assistant City Manager Angela …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 3 top administrators whose huge salaries sparked outrage in California city have resigned.

Council deliberating fate of officials whose salaries sparked outrage in small California city

Council deliberating fate of high-paid officials

BELL, Calif. – The City Council deliberated into the early hours Friday in a closed session on the fate of three administrators whose huge salaries have sparked outrage in this small blue-collar suburb of Los Angeles.
Councilman Luis Artiga said the panel planned to request their resignations during the private meeting … Read : Council deliberating fate of officials whose salaries sparked outrage in small California city.

Seattle police arresting 22 cabbies accused of trafficking in stolen property

Seattle police arresting 22 cabbies in theft bust

SEATTLE – Seattle police are arresting 22 cab drivers accused of trafficking in stolen property. The arrests announced Thursday come after a 10-week undercover operation that targeted what police call an open air market for stolen goods that’s been operating in the Westlake Avenue area of downtown Seattle.
The … Original article on : Seattle police arresting 22 cabbies accused of trafficking in stolen property.

CWG on Punjab terrorists, ISI radar: intelligence report

CHANDIGARH – The 2010 Commonwealth Games (CWG) to be held in New Delhi this October is on the radar of terrorists from Punjab and their supporters in other countries, including Pakistan’s ISI, says an intelligence report of the Punjab Police.

Field police officials in Punjab have been alerted by the latest intelligence inputs that state: “Sikh …. Original source  : CWG on Punjab terrorists, ISI radar: intelligence report.

Taliban chief met man who tried to bomb Times Square

LONDON – The Pakistani Taliban chief Hakimullah Mehsud had met Pakistani-American Faisal Shahzad who tried to bomb New York’s Times Square, shows a new video footage.

The video clip shows Shahzad and Mehsud shaking hands and hugging each other sometime before the failed May 1 attack, Sky News reported Friday.
Shahzad can be heard saying: “Today, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Taliban chief met man who tried to bomb Times Square.

US sanctions on Taliban, Haqqani Network leaders

WASHINGTON – The United States has imposed sanctions on three prominent members of the Taliban and its affiliated Pakistan-based Haqqani Network “for supporting acts of terrorism”.

Those targeted for sanctions by the US Treasury Department Thursday are Gul Agha Ishakzai, the head of the Taliban’s financial commission; Amir Abdullah, former treasurer to senior Taliban leader Mullah …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US sanctions on Taliban, Haqqani Network leaders.

152 arrested at San Francisco hotel protest; demonstration one of several nationwide

152 arrested at San Francisco hotel protest

SAN FRANCISCO – More than 150 hotel workers and labor union supporters have been arrested in San Francisco after gathering outside a hotel as part of a nationwide protest seeking better wages and working conditions.
Organizers say an estimated 1,400 people took part in the demonstration Thursday at the Grand … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 152 arrested at San Francisco hotel protest; demonstration one of several nationwide.

Pakistan must act against Mumbai attackers: US

WASHINGTON – The United States has listed investigation and bringing to justice those responsible for the November 2008 Mumbai terror attack among the must do things for Pakistan in the fight against terror.

“There are things, clearly, that Pakistan must do,” State Department spokesman Phillip Crowley told reporters Thursday when asked if recent statements by US … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan must act against Mumbai attackers: US.

Suspected Maoists abduct four villagers in Bihar

PATNA – Suspected Maoists have abducted four people in Bihar’s Rohtas district over a land dispute, police said Friday.

Over 40 armed guerrillas raided Tendua village in Rohtas, about 120 km from here, and abducted four villagers at gunpoint over a land dispute late Thursday.
They freed one man later, police said.
A case has been …. Read the original article  : Suspected Maoists abduct four villagers in Bihar.

RFK Jr.’s wife, accused of hopping curb at NY school, pleads guilty to driving while impaired

RFK Jr.’s wife guilty of driving impaired in NY

BEDFORD HILLS, N.Y. – The wife of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. settled her drunken-driving case without jail time Thursday night by pleading guilty to a minor charge.
Mary Kennedy admitted in court that her driving ability was impaired when she drove over a curb outside a school in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NJ woman accused of flashing motorists while blocking highway traffic at evening rush hour

Police: NJ flasher blocked highway at rush hour

MIDDLETOWN, N.J. – A New Jersey woman is facing several charges after police say she blocked highway rush-hour traffic and began flashing passing drivers, then injured a state trooper who tried to stop her.
Authorities say the trooper confronted 23-year-old Arika Felder of Plainfield at around 6 p.m. Tuesday … Read more »».

Women detained at G-20 summit protests allege police made sexual threats in detention center

Detained G-20 protesters allege police misconduct

TORONTO – Some women arrested during G-20 summit protests in Toronto have alleged police made sexual threats against them while they were held in a makeshift detention center.
The allegations were made in two video testimonials played at a media conference Thursday organized by the Toronto Community Mobilization Network in Toronto.
One …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Four militants arrested in Assam

GUWAHATI – Four militants of the outlawed Kamatapur Liberation Organisation (KLO) were arrested from a safe house Saturday in Assam’s main city of Guwahati in a joint raid by police and paramilitary troopers.

A police spokesperson said the four KLO rebels were arrested from a rented accommodation in the heart of Guwahati.
“Based on specific inputs … Read more >>.

Army sergeant pleads guilty to sex trafficking of child in Washington state

Army sergeant guilty of sex trafficking in Wash.

TACOMA, Wash. – A 27-year-old Army sergeant from Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state has pleaded guilty in federal court to sex trafficking of a child and attempted sex trafficking of a child.
Prosecutors say Sterling Hospedales set up one juvenile in a Lakewood apartment to work as a …. Original source  : Army sergeant pleads guilty to sex trafficking of child in Washington state.

Injured Uttar Pradesh minister recovering well

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Minister Nand Gopal Gupta alias Nandi, who was critically injured in a bomb blast in Allahabad, has been removed from life support system as his condition is better, an official said here Saturday.

Minister for Finance (Stamps and Registrations) Gupta is being treated at the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical …. Original article  : Injured Uttar Pradesh minister recovering well.

Rachel Wade Guilty Of Second Degree Murder

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA (GaeaTimes.com)- Rachel Wade, 20, was found guilty of second degree murder yesterday for fatally stabbing her romantic rival Sarah Ludemann. The gruesome murder took place on April 15, 2009 where Rachel Wade stabbed the victim twice with a kitchen knife after the rivalry over their mutual love interest got out of hands. The …. Source article  : Rachel Wade Guilty Of Second Degree Murder.

US drone attack kills 16 militants in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A US unmanned aircraft fired five missiles at a suspected insurgent camp in Pakistan’s tribal region near the Afghan border Saturday, killing 16 people, security officials said.

Several more militants were injured in the attack in Naiz Narae village in South Waziristan tribal district.
“The locals have pulled 16 bodies and some survivors from … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US drone attack kills 16 militants in Pakistan.

Panamanian police identify body of US woman missing since March

Panamanian police identify body of US woman

PANAMA CITY – Panamanian authorities say they have identified the body of a U.S. woman who had been missing since March and are looking for a Texas man suspected in her death.
Prosecutors’ advisor Neftali Jaen says police on Friday identified the remains of Cheryl Lynn Hugues, who went missing … Original source on Gaea Times at : Panamanian police identify body of US woman missing since March.

Reality television starlet accused in break-in at actor’s home released from LA County jail

LA reality television starlet released from jail

LYNWOOD, Calif. – A reality television starlet who pleaded no contest to felony burglary in connection with a break-in at actor Orlando Bloom’s home was released from a Los Angeles County jail Friday after serving 30 days of a 180-day sentence.
Alexis Neiers, 19, was set free around 7:40 p.m. …. Read the original article  : Reality television starlet accused in break-in at actor’s home released from LA County jail.

US to encourage India, Pakistan dialogue to combat terror

WASHINGTON – The United States says it would continue to encourage India and Pakistan to talk and see them cooperate to combat terrorism, but it was ultimately for them to decide the pace of their dialogue.

“We certainly want to see both India and Pakistan cooperate together along with other countries in the region to combat … Original article on : US to encourage India, Pakistan dialogue to combat terror.

Attorney confirms that former pro cyclist Tyler Hamilton will appear before federal grand jury

Hamilton subpoenaed to appear before grand jury

NEW YORK – Former professional cyclist Tyler Hamilton has been subpoenaed to appear before a grand jury, though his attorney refused to say whether it has anything to do with a federal investigation involving former teammate Lance Armstrong.
Chris Manderson said late Friday that Hamilton, a teammate of Armstrong on … Original article on : Attorney confirms that former pro cyclist Tyler Hamilton will appear before federal grand jury.

Pakistan must act against Haqqani terror network: US

WASHINGTON – The US has told Pakistan it must ban travel, freeze assets and put an arms embargo against key leaders of Pakistan-based Haqqani Network, identified as one of the most effective and dangerous terror groups.

The US Treasury Department Thursday imposed sanctions targeting Nasiruddin Haqqani, Agha Ishakzai, the head of the Taliban’s financial commission, and …. Source  : Pakistan must act against Haqqani terror network: US.

Judge in NY sentences former immigration agent to at least 18 months in prison for sex demands

Ex-immigration agent gets jail time for sex demand

NEW YORK – A New York judge has sentenced a former immigration agent to at least 18 months in prison for threatening to block a woman’s citizenship application unless she gave in to his sexual demands.
Isaac Baichu of the Bronx pleaded guilty in April to coercion, sexual misconduct …. Source  : Judge in NY sentences former immigration agent to at least 18 months in prison for sex demands.

Prosecutors say at least 23 dead found at suspected drug-gang dumping ground in north Mexico

23 bodies found at northern Mexico dumping ground

MEXICO CITY – Authorities found the remains of at least 23 people in a series of pits and scattered on the ground at a suspected drug-gang dumping site near the industrial hub of Monterrey in northern Mexico, an official said Friday.
Investigators were using heavy equipment to search for …. Read the original article  : Prosecutors say at least 23 dead found at suspected drug-gang dumping ground in north Mexico.

Sacramento Kings guard Tyreke Evans pleads no contest to reckless driving

Tyreke Evans pleads no contest to reckless driving

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Prosecutors say Sacramento Kings guard Tyreke Evans has pleaded no contest to reckless driving.
Sacramento County District Attorney Jan Scully says Evans had his driving license suspended for 30 days and was ordered to serve three years of informal probation after entering his no contest plea … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sacramento Kings guard Tyreke Evans pleads no contest to reckless driving.

Woman pleads not guilty in Beverly Hills fatal stabbing of movie producer’s son

Woman pleads not guilty in Beverly Hills stabbing

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – A woman has pleaded not guilty in the fatal Beverly Hills stabbing of her former boyfriend, who was the son of a movie producer.
Chie (chee) Coggins Johnson entered her plea Friday. Her current boyfriend, Scott Barker, is scheduled to be arraigned Monday.
Prosecutors say Barker …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Woman pleads not guilty in Beverly Hills fatal stabbing of movie producer’s son.

Man fatally shoots American Samoa police officer outside courthouse just after hearing

American Samoa detective shot outside courthouse

PAGO PAGO, American Samoa – A man who had just attended a relative’s court hearing fatally shot a veteran police officer outside the courthouse, then stood over the fallen detective and fired two more times as officers and several reporters were nearby, police officials said.
The detective, Lt. Lusila Brown, was …. Read the original article  : here.

Police officer shot and killed in Taylor, Mich.; 1st in suburban Detroit department’s history

Suburban Detroit police officer shot and killed

TAYLOR, Mich. – A man once named officer of the year by the Police Officers Association of Michigan was fatally shot Friday while responding to a burglary call, officials said.
Cpl. Matthew Edwards, 31, is the first officer killed in the line of duty in the history of the Taylor … Original source on Gaea Times at : Police officer shot and killed in Taylor, Mich.; 1st in suburban Detroit department’s history.

Prosecutors say 18 dead found at suspected drug-gang body dumping ground in northern Mexico

18 bodies found at northern Mexico dumping ground

MEXICO CITY – Authorities found the remains of at least 18 people in a series of pits and scattered on the ground at a suspected drug-gang dumping site near the industrial hub of Monterrey in northern Mexico, an official said Friday.
Investigators were using heavy equipment to search for …. Original source  : Prosecutors say 18 dead found at suspected drug-gang body dumping ground in northern Mexico.

Wesley Snipes’ attorneys seek to question jurors about guilty verdict in tax trial

Wesley Snipes’ attorneys want to question jurors

ATLANTA – Attorneys for Wesley Snipes say they want to question jurors who convicted the actor of tax-related charges to determine whether any had made up their minds about his guilt before trial.
The motion filed Friday in Florida federal court says that an unnamed juror sent Snipes’ attorney Daniel … Read more : Wesley Snipes’ attorneys seek to question jurors about guilty verdict in tax trial.

Lawyers ask judge for injunction to halt military’s ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy

Gay group asks for halt to ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’
RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Lawyers for a Republican gay rights organization asked a federal judge Friday to issue an injunction halting the military’s ban on openly gay service members.
Government lawyers countered by warning U.S. District Judge Virginia A. Phillips not to overstep her …. Original article  : Lawyers ask judge for injunction to halt military’s ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ policy.

Former AG Gonzales angry at being put through US attorneys probe which produced no charges

Former AG says he’s angry about criminal probe

WASHINGTON – Former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales said Friday he’s angry about being put through a long-running criminal investigation into his role in the firings of U.S. attorneys.
“I feel angry that I had to go through this. That my family had to suffer through and what for?” Gonzales …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former AG Gonzales angry at being put through US attorneys probe which produced no charges.

Russia’s Putin sings with expelled agents expelled from US, promises them ‘bright’ future

Russia’s Putin sings with expelled agents
FOROS, Ukraine – Vladimir Putin says he sang a patriotic song with the Russian spies who were expelled from the United States and promised them a “bright” future.

Russia’s prime minister said he recently met with the 10 sleeper agents, without saying when or where.
He said they “talked about life” and …. Source article  : Russia’s Putin sings with expelled agents expelled from US, promises them ‘bright’ future.

Suspected Maoists kill Trinamool supporter

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists killed a Trinamool Congress supporter in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district on suspicion of his being a police informer, an officer said Sunday.

The body of Hemanta Mahato, who was missing for the past few days, was found Sunday morning. Maoist posters found beside his body termed him a police informer, the … Original article on : Suspected Maoists kill Trinamool supporter.

Scuffle leaves 1 arrested, 1 injured in packed film preview at San Diego’s Comic-Con

1 arrested in scuffle at Comic-Con in San Diego

SAN DIEGO – Authorities say a man was arrested at Comic-Con in San Diego for injuring another man with a pen amid a crowd of thousands awaiting a film preview.
Police Officer David Stafford says the two men got into an argument over sitting too close to each … Read : Scuffle leaves 1 arrested, 1 injured in packed film preview at San Diego’s Comic-Con.

Race again proves a distraction for Obama, shifting his focus from crowded to-do list

For Obama, race means repeated distractions
WASHINGTON – Right when President Barack Obama should have been making political hay over big-deal legislative triumphs, race once again blew in with a storm of distraction.
Obama and his administration have proved to be one of the most deliberate, highly disciplined in recent history. Whether you approve or …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lashkar-e-Taiba has become global threat: Mullen

ISLAMABAD – The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has become “a very dangerous organisation and a significant regional and global threat”, Admiral Mike Mullen, the chairman of US Joint Chiefs of Staff, has said.

Talking to reporters at the US embassy here, Mullen stressed Saturday that there was a strong need to take stern action to stop LeT’s …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Lashkar-e-Taiba has become global threat: Mullen.

Alfred Molina cast in ‘Law & Order: Los Angeles’ as prosecutor; NBC drama debuts in fall

Alfred Molina to join new ‘Law & Order’ series

LOS ANGELES – Veteran film and Broadway actor Alfred Molina is joining the cast of “Law & Order: Los Angeles,” which debuts this fall as the newest member of the NBC crime drama family.
Molina will play Deputy District Attorney Morales, said Dick Wolf, creator and executive producer …. Read the original article  : here.

Taliban claim capture of two US soldiers

KABUL – The Taliban has claimed it captured two US soldiers in eastern Afghanistan, Xinhua reported Saturday.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told the media over phone that his group has abducted two US soldiers with two cameras and two assault rifles from Charkh district Friday.
The NATO forces confirmed Saturday that two foreign soldiers were missing. … Read : Taliban claim capture of two US soldiers.

Four CRPF troppers wounded in Srinagar blast

SRINAGAR – Four Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers were wounded in an explosion in Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital Srinagar late Saturday, police said.

A senior police officer said separatist guerrillas tossed a powerful hand grenade at a CRPF bunker in the uptown Batmallo locality.
“The injured troopers were taken to hospital for treatment. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Four CRPF troppers wounded in Srinagar blast.

50 militants killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – Fifty Taliban militants were killed in Afghanistan’s eastern Nuristan province, the defence ministry said Saturday.

“Afghan commandos backed by NATO-led troops raided a Taliban hideout in Barg-e-Matal district Friday night, killing 50 rebels,” it said in a statement, Xinhua reported.
The militants had planned to attack the district headquarters. Huge quantity of arms and …. Read the original article  : 50 militants killed in Afghanistan.

Prosecutor decides to drop charges against eastern NY man who tackled teen prankster

Charges dropped for NY man who tackled prankster

BETHLEHEM, N.Y. – A prosecutor has decided to drop charges against a man who chased and tackled a teenager who rang his doorbell in a late-evening prank in eastern New York.
Daniel Van Plew of Bethlehem had been arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child after …. Source article  : Prosecutor decides to drop charges against eastern NY man who tackled teen prankster.

Officials say gunmen kill anti-Taliban minister’s son in northwest Pakistan

Gunmen kill anti-Taliban Pakistani minister’s son

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Officials say gunmen have killed the son of an anti-Taliban minister in northwest Pakistan.
Police official Nisar Khan says the Saturday shooting took place in Naushehra district, the hometown of Information Minister Mian Iftikhar Hussain of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Khan says the minister’s son was on a stroll when … Read : Officials say gunmen kill anti-Taliban minister’s son in northwest Pakistan.

Five US soldiers killed in Afghan blasts

KABUL – Five US soldiers were killed Saturday by roadside bombs in southern Afghanistan, while two policemen and a parliamentary candidate died in other attacks.

A US military spokesman confirmed the soldiers’ deaths. The NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said they died in two separate blasts, but did not reveal the exact location.
Nearly 400 … Read more >>.

Essay: Race again proves a distraction for Obama, shifting his focus from crowded to-do list

Essay: For Obama, race means repeated distractions
WASHINGTON – Right when President Barack Obama should have been making political hay over big-deal legislative triumphs, race once again blew in with a storm of distraction.
Obama and his administration have proved to be one of the most deliberate, highly disciplined in …. Read the original article  : here.

Kishenji aide, three other Maoists sent to police custody

KOLKATA – Four top Maoists, including an aide of rebel leader Kishenji and wanted for the 2007 killing of Jharkhand MP Sunil Mahato, were remanded to police custody for five days by a lower court Saturday.

Rajesh Munda, a prime accused in the murder of the Jharkhand MP, and the three other rebels were brought before …. Source  : Kishenji aide, three other Maoists sent to police custody.

Reduce ‘development deficit’ to tackle Maoism: PM (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday said “development deficit” in backward areas should be reduced to deal with Left-wing extremism and admitted that government-sponsored schemes “have not worked” in bridging the alienation of the tribal people who were being exploited by Maoist rebels.

“The problems of marginalised sections of our country, many of whom …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Reduce ‘development deficit’ to tackle Maoism: PM (Second Lead).

We hope to get something from Pakistan on 26/11: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Striking a positive note after the recent talks with Islamabad, India Saturday said it was hopeful of getting “something” from Pakistan on the dossiers provided to it last month on 26/11 Mumbai attacks and is willing to give it some time in this regard.

“We hope to get something from Pakistan. Let’s …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : We hope to get something from Pakistan on 26/11: Chidambaram.

Investigators: 2 killed, 5 wounded in shooting at market in Russian city of Samara

2 killed, 5 hurt in Russian market shooting

MOSCOW – Gunmen opened fire on security guards at a provincial food market in the southern Russian city of Samara on Saturday, killing at least two and wounding at least five other people, investigators said.
At least six attackers arrived at the market in three cars and opened fire [..] Read the original article: here.

Samoa Detective Shot Dead

PAGO PAGO, AMERICAN SAMOA (GaeaTimes.com)- The American Samoa citizens were startled and shocked to hear that a police officer on his day of duty was shot to dead by a person who attended a relative’s court hearing. The irony of the whole incident was that the police officer Lt. Lusila Brown was present in …. Read the original article  : Samoa Detective Shot Dead.

There is development deficit in tribal areas: PM

NEW DELHI – Admitting a “development deficit” in backward areas, particularly those inhabited by tribals, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday said a “holistic development programme” was needed for these areas as government sponsored schemes “have not worked” in bridging the alienation of the tribal people who were being exploited by Maoists.

“The problems of marginalised sections … Read more : There is development deficit in tribal areas: PM.

Four US soldiers killed in Afghanistan blast

KABUL – Four American soldiers were killed Saturday by a roadside bomb in southern Afghanistan, the military said.

The NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) confirmed the deaths of its troops, but did not reveal their nationalities or the exact location where the explosion took place.
A US military spokesman said that those killed were Americans. … Read : Four US soldiers killed in Afghanistan blast.