Documents hidden for 33 years by Argentine torture survivor reveal fate of 293 prisoners

Secret list shows fate of Argentine disappeared

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Nelida Sosa de Forti almost escaped Argentina’s dictatorship. The airplane’s engines were already running when an air force commander came on board and ordered her and her five sons off the plane. Armed men waiting on the tarmac took them away.
After days in a clandestine … Read more »»».

Maoist strike hits life in interior Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Normal life was hit in the forested interiors of Chhattisgarh Thursday, the second day of the two-day shutdown in five states called by the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist).

Security has been tightened in Maoist-affected areas, mainly in the state’s Bastar region which is made up of five districts — Narayanpur, Kanker, Bastar, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

SAFrican police: American robbed and shot in Johannesburg street en route to hotel

American tourist shot and wounded in South Africa

JOHANNESBURG – A 35-year-old American was shot and robbed while walking to his hotel but his life is not in danger, a police spokeswoman said Thursday.
The victim, identified as David James Bueche, was assaulted by four males as he was looking for his accommodation in Johannesburg’s affluent Sandton …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : SAFrican police: American robbed and shot in Johannesburg street en route to hotel.

Cyprus police step up search for vanished suspect in Russian spy ring

Cyprus police seek vanished Russian spy suspect

NICOSIA, Cyprus – A Cyprus police spokesman says authorities have stepped up their search for an alleged member of a Russian spy ring who vanished after skipping bail.
Michalis Katsounotos said Thursday that police have “no indications yet” that 54-year-old Christopher Robert Metsos has left the island or crossed over … Original article on : Cyprus police step up search for vanished suspect in Russian spy ring.

Jacob Wetterling Case Resurfaces

ST. JOSEPH (GaeaTimes.com)- 21 years after the then 11-year-old boy Jacob Wetterling was abducted by a masked man on gunpoint, the investigators are still unable to find the whereabouts of the boy and continuing their search. On Wednesday the police returned to the property near which Jacob Wetterling was abducted. Around 17 vehicles that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Two soldiers killed near LoC

SRINAGAR – Two Indian Army soldiers were killed in Jammu and Kashmir Thursday when they tried to foil an infiltration bid from Pakistan, officials said.

The two Rashtriya Rifles soldiers were killed in an ongoing gunfight in Machil sector of the Line of Control (LoC), which divides Jammu and Kashmir between India and Pakistan. … Read more »»».

NY Spanish-language columnist, husband suspected in Russian spy ring shared leftist views

NY couple accused in spy ring shared leftist ideas

NEW YORK – Before Vicky Pelaez became a columnist for one of the United States’ best-known Spanish-language newspapers, she was a scrappy television reporter in her native Peru who turned her kidnapping by a leftist guerrilla group into a chance to get a scoop.
Her husband, Juan Lazaro, …. Original article  : NY Spanish-language columnist, husband suspected in Russian spy ring shared leftist views.

9 of 11 people accused in Russian spy case face bail hearings in NY, Mass., Va.

NY, Mass., Va. bail hearings await 9 in spy case

NEW YORK – Bail hearings for nine people charged in a Russian spy case were scheduled Thursday as a U.S. prosecutor said the evidence against them was growing stronger by the day.
Hearings were set for federal courts in New York, Boston and Alexandria, Va., for all …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 9 of 11 people accused in Russian spy case face bail hearings in NY, Mass., Va..

Tapes at trial reveal Blagojevich hopeful, angry, unsure in days after 2008 election

Tapes reveal Blagojevich hopeful, angry, unsure
CHICAGO – Wiretap recordings played at Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trial depict the former governor as furious one minute, then optimistic and other times unsure about his chances for success in his alleged plan to trade his power to name someone to Barack Obama’s vacated U.S. Senate seat for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tapes at trial reveal Blagojevich hopeful, angry, unsure in days after 2008 election.

Arena Pharmaceuticals in deal to fund commercialization of obesity drug

Arena Pharmaceuticals in deal for obesity drug

Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc. said Thursday it has an agreement with Japan’s Eisai Inc. in a deal worth potentially more than $1.3 billion to fund commercialization of an obesity drug that could become Arena’s first product.
Arena’s lorcaserin is part of a wave of potential new treatments for a tough-to-treat problem …. Source article  : Arena Pharmaceuticals in deal to fund commercialization of obesity drug.

SAFrican police: American shot and robbed in Johannesburg street; life not in danger

SAfrica: American shot and robbed in Johannesburg

JOHANNESBURG – A spokeswoman for South African police says a 35-year old American man has been shot during a robbery in Johannesburg.
Brig. Sally De Beers says four people assaulted the American late Wednesday in Johannesburg’s affluent Sandton area. She identified the victim as David James Bueche, but did not …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Clinton visiting former Soviet states to reassert US interests in Russia’s neighborhood

On heels of spy case, Clinton in Russia’s backyard
WASHINGTON – On the heels of a sensational Russian spy scandal, Hillary Rodham Clinton is making her first visit as secretary of state to four post-Soviet states, each with a direct stake in the Obama administration’s campaign to “reset” relations with its former Cold …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Clinton visiting former Soviet states to reassert US interests in Russia’s neighborhood.

Police: Gunmen kill 2, leaves 1 wounded, in Sodertalje in central Sweden

Police: Gunmen kill 2 men in central Sweden

STOCKHOLM – Gunmen shot and killed two men and wounded a third person in the central Swedish city of Sodertalje early Thursday, police said.
Police spokeswoman Bjorn Engstrom said the men were shot at a location used for card games in the Ronna area of the city, which is …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NATO says troops capture district Afghan Taliban chief in Helmand province

NATO says district Afghan Taliban chief arrested

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and international troops captured a Taliban district chief in a four-hour gunbattle in the southern province of Helmand, NATO said Thursday.
In northern Afghanistan, four rockets slammed into a base housing about 120 South Korean construction and security personnel in Parwan province, the South Korean Foreign … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NATO says troops capture district Afghan Taliban chief in Helmand province.

Surgeon known as ‘Dr. Death’ in Australia sentenced to 7 years in prison for manslaughter

Australia’s ‘Dr. Death’ sentenced to 7 years

BRISBANE, Australia – A surgeon dubbed “Dr. Death” in Australia for a string of botched operations was sentenced Thursday to seven years in prison for killing three patients and permanently harming another.
A jury had convicted Indian-born U.S. citizen Jayant Patel, 60, two days earlier of three counts of manslaughter …. Original article  : Surgeon known as ‘Dr. Death’ in Australia sentenced to 7 years in prison for manslaughter.

More synergy developing between Al Qaeda and LeT, says US

WASHINGTON – A top US military official sees greater synergy between terrorist groups with the Al Qaeda leadership living in Pakistan and the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), blamed for the November 2008 Mumbai attacks, looking beyond India.

“Al Qaeda does live in Pakistan and strategically, I’ve felt, for some time, which is one of the reasons I’ve worked … Read more »»».

St. Paul man pleads guilty to threatening to kill US president and his family

Minn. man pleads guilty to threatening Obama
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Minnesota man has pleaded guilty to threatening to kill President Barack Obama and his family.
The U.S. Attorney’s office says 35-year-old Chane Phillip Christenson of St. Paul pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count of making a threat to take the life of the … Original article on : St. Paul man pleads guilty to threatening to kill US president and his family.

Al-Qaida launches English-language propaganda magazine as it broadens reach in US, Europe

Al-Qaida launches English propaganda magazine

NEW YORK – Al-Qaida launched its first online propaganda magazine in English on Tuesday, a move that could help the terror group recruit inside the U.S. and Europe.
The magazine, called Inspire, is being run by al-Qaida’s branch in Yemen, which has been linked to the failed Christmas Day bombing attempt of … Read more >>.

Police: Gunman kills 2, leaves 1 wounded, in Sodertalje in central Sweden

Police: Gunman kills 2 men in central Sweden

STOCKHOLM – Police say two men have been shot dead and a third person wounded by an unknown gunman in the city of Sodertalje, south of Stockholm.
Police spokeswoman Marie Olofsson says police are searching for the gunman but couldn’t give more details. The wounded person was hospitalized, she … Original article on : Police: Gunman kills 2, leaves 1 wounded, in Sodertalje in central Sweden.

Actor Jeremy London asks LA judge to order family members to stop giving interviews about him

Jeremy London seeks injunction against family

LOS ANGELES – Jeremy London asked a court Wednesday to issue an injunction preventing his mother and brother from giving interviews that the actor claims are hurting his reputation and career.
The lawsuit claimed the interviews may hamper a police investigation in London’s alleged kidnapping in the desert city of Palm … Read more : Actor Jeremy London asks LA judge to order family members to stop giving interviews about him.

Oakland on edge, taking precautions as L.A. murder trial of ex-BART cop Mehserle nears verdict

Oakland teeters on edge awaiting Mehserle verdict

OAKLAND, Calif. – This Northern California city is bracing for an upcoming verdict in the racially-charged murder trial of a former Bay Area Rapid Transit officer some 400 miles away.
While Johannes Mehserle, who is white, awaits his fate in a Los Angeles courtroom, officials in Oakland are frantically preparing … Original article on : Oakland on edge, taking precautions as L.A. murder trial of ex-BART cop Mehserle nears verdict.

Oakland braces for verdict in murder trial of former Bay Area Rapid Transit officer

Oakland braces for verdict in BART shooting case

OAKLAND, Calif. – Oakland officials are bracing for an upcoming verdict in the racially charged murder trial of a former Bay Area Rapid Transit officer taking place in Southern California.
While Johannes Mehserle, who is white, awaits his fate in a Los Angeles courtroom, officials are preparing for a …. Read the original article  : Oakland braces for verdict in murder trial of former Bay Area Rapid Transit officer.

ULFA resumes extortion of tea firms, businesses

GUWAHATI – The outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) is back with its terror designs after a long gap by slapping huge extortion notices on tea companies, business houses and individuals across Assam, officials Friday said.

“The ULFA, of late, has served extortion demands to various people with amounts ranging from Rs.500,000 to Rs.1.5 million,” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ULFA resumes extortion of tea firms, businesses.

Maoist leader Azad had gone ‘missing’ in March

HYDERABAD – Top Maoist leader Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad, who was killed by police in Andhra Pradesh early Friday, had apparently gone ‘missing’ four months ago.

The politburo member and chief spokesperson of the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) had gone ‘missing’ March 12. The Maoist outfit had alleged that the Special Investigations Bureau of Andhra … Read more : Maoist leader Azad had gone ‘missing’ in March.

Online Movie Watching And Its Woes

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The Internet had brought the word close to all but its usage can sometimes land people in trouble when they try to gain access to stuffs for free that are otherwise sold at a price. There are a number of people who do not want to shell out money for buying the … Read : Online Movie Watching And Its Woes.

Three foreigners killed in Afghanistan

KUNDUZ – Three foreign workers were killed Friday in northern Afghanistan when Taliban suicide bombers attacked a US aid contractor, a provincial governor said.

“A German, a British and a Filipino were killed in the suicide attacks and firefight with the Taliban,” Kunduz Governor Mohammad Omar said.
At least six militants equipped with suicide vests, car …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Three foreigners killed in Afghanistan.

Prosecutors: NY suspect spilled Russia spy operation details but won’t reveal his true name

Prosecutors: NY suspect spilled Russia spy details

NEW YORK – Within hours of his capture, U.S. prosecutors say, Russian spy suspect Juan Lazaro admitted his name was an alias.
So who is he? Lazaro wasn’t saying – not “even for his son,” court papers say.
Lazaro’s admission – and defiance – was revealed Thursday by federal prosecutors arguing …. Read the original article  : Prosecutors: NY suspect spilled Russia spy operation details but won’t reveal his true name.

Maoists looted Ak47s in Narayanpur attack

HYDERABAD – The outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) has put the number of its cadres killed in the ambush in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district Tuesday at three and claimed that the rebels looted 27 sophisticated weapons, including AK47s, from the slain security men.

“The weapons recovered from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) helped the Maoists … Read : Maoists looted Ak47s in Narayanpur attack.

Top Maoist leader Azad gunned down in Andhra Pradesh

HYDERABAD – Top Maoist leader Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad, considered second in the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) hierarchy, was gunned down by police in Andhra Pradesh Friday.

Azad, who was also spokesperson of the outlawed group, was killed in a gunfight with police around 3 a.m. in the forests near Jogapur in Adilabad district, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Top Maoist leader Azad gunned down in Andhra Pradesh.

Vietnam frees 3 convicted rapists after acupuncturist claims dot on ear proved them virgins

‘Virginity test’ helps free 3 in Vietnam rape case

HANOI, Vietnam – An acupuncturist who claims she can detect a man’s virginity based on a small dot on the ear has become a minor celebrity in Vietnam, where she is credited with helping to free three convicted rapists from prison.
Traditional medicine practitioner Pham Thi Hong started …. Original article  : Vietnam frees 3 convicted rapists after acupuncturist claims dot on ear proved them virgins.

4 killed after USAID compound attacked by 6 suicide bombers in northern Afghanistan

USAID compound attacked in Afghanistan; 4 killed

KABUL, Afghanistan – Six suicide bombers attacked a USAID compound Friday in northern Afghanistan, killing at least four people and wounding several others, officials said. Two of the dead were foreigners.
The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, which began about 3:30 a.m. when a suicide car bomber detonated a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Argentina: Trial begins for ex-dictator Videla, facing new charges of crimes against humanity

Argentina: Ex-dictator faces human rights charges

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Former dictator Jorge Rafael Videla, one of South America’s bloodiest military rulers, returns to court as a defendant on Friday for the first time since he was convicted of crimes against humanity 25 years ago.
Videla, 84, is being tried for the murders of 31 political prisoners …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

2 killed after USAID compound attacked by 6 suicide bombers in northern Afghanistan

USAID compound attacked in Afghanistan; 2 killed

KABUL, Afghanistan – Six suicide bombers attacked a USAID compound Friday in northern Afghanistan, killing at least two people and wounding several others.
One attacker blew up a sports utility vehicle at about 3:30 a.m. at the entrance and the other five stormed the building, said Gen. Abdul Razaq Yaqoubi, …. Read the original article  : 2 killed after USAID compound attacked by 6 suicide bombers in northern Afghanistan.

40 killed in twin suicide bombings at Lahore shrine (Fourth Lead)

LAHORE – More than 40 Sufi devotees in this Pakistani city were killed and 175 injured when two suicide bombers struck the famed Data Ganj Baksh shrine packed with worshippers who had congregated for the traditional Thursday prayers.

The terror attack took place late Thursday night when thousands of worshippers had gathered at the white …. Source  : 40 killed in twin suicide bombings at Lahore shrine (Fourth Lead).

Top Maoist leader gunned down in Andhra Pradesh

HYDERABAD – In a major blow to the Maoists, their top leader and spokesperson Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad was killed in a gunfight with police in Andhra Pradesh Friday, police claimed.

The shootout took place near Jogapur in Adilabad district, about 300 km from here.
Another Maoist guerrilla, who is yet to be identified, was also … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Top Maoist leader gunned down in Andhra Pradesh.

21 killed in shootout between drug, migrant trafficking gangs near Arizona border

21 killed in Mexican gang shootout near US border

HERMOSILLO, Mexico – A massive gun battle between rival drug and migrant trafficking gangs near the U.S. border Thursday left 21 people dead and at least six others wounded, prosecutors said.
The fire fight occurred in a sparsely populated area about 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the Arizona …. Original source  : 21 killed in shootout between drug, migrant trafficking gangs near Arizona border.

Zardari, Gilani condemn Lahore blasts

ISLAMABAD – The blasts at Lahore’s Sufi shrine that killed 38 people show that terrorists have no respect for any religion and such acts will not deter us to fight them, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari said Friday.

Such terror acts cannot dent the government’s resolve to fight the menace of terrorism and militancy to the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Zardari, Gilani condemn Lahore blasts.

Shootout between drug, migrant trafficking gangs near US border leaves 21 dead

21 dead in Mexican gang gun battle near US border

HERMOSILLO, Mexico – A massive gun battle between rival drug and migrant-trafficking gangs near the U.S. border left 21 people dead on Thursday, prosecutors said.
The clash occurred in a sparsely populated area about 12 miles (20 kilometers) from the Arizona border – a prime corridor for … Read more >>.

Taliban attack US troops in Afghanistan

KUNDUZ – Taliban militants attacked a guest house of US troops in Kunduz city, capital of Afghanistan’s Kunduz province, Friday morning, a top official said.

“Taliban insurgents intruded a guest house of US military in Kunduz city this morning and some have been killed,” Mohammad Omar, governor of Kunduz province, was quoted as saying by Xinhua. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Taliban attack US troops in Afghanistan.

Eagles quarterback Michael Vick says he ‘had nothing to do with’ shooting after birthday bash

Vick says he ‘had nothing to do with’ shooting

RICHMOND, Va. – Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback Michael Vick says he was not involved with a shooting following his birthday celebration in Virginia Beach last week.
“I want to assure everyone that I had nothing to do with that incident,” he said in the statement provided to The Associated … Read more : Eagles quarterback Michael Vick says he ‘had nothing to do with’ shooting after birthday bash.

Suspect in killing of 2 Tampa police officers during routine traffic stop charged in 3rd death

Fla. officer killings suspect charged in 3rd death

TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa police say a man suspected of killing two police officers has been charged in a third slaying.
Dontae Morris is to make his first court appearance Saturday after turning himself in Friday evening.
Morris is charged with two counts of murder in the shooting deaths this … Original source on Gaea Times at : Suspect in killing of 2 Tampa police officers during routine traffic stop charged in 3rd death.

Mother, brother allowed to see Maoist leader’s body

HYDERABAD – The mother and brother of top Maoist leader Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad, gunned down by the Andhra Pradesh Police a day earlier, were Saturday allowed to see his body.

Tension prevailed at Machriyal town in Adilabad district as police prevented revolutionary balladeer Gaddar, writer Varavara Rao and other Maoist sympathizers from entering the Government … Read more : Mother, brother allowed to see Maoist leader’s body.

Infiltration bid foiled, four militants killed

SRINAGAR – Four separatist guerrillas were killed in Jammu and Kashmir Saturday when the army foiled an infiltration bid from across the Line of Control (LoC), an army spokesman said here.

A group of heavily armed guerrillas tried to sneak into Nawgam sector of Kupwara district in the Kashmir Valley and the army challenged them, Lt …. Source  : Infiltration bid foiled, four militants killed.

Police: Suspect surrenders in slayings of 2 Tampa officers during routine traffic stop

Suspect in killing of 2 Fla. officers surrenders

TAMPA, Fla. – A man wanted for the slayings of two Tampa police officers surrendered to police Friday night, officials said.
Tampa police announced late Friday that Dontae Rashawn Morris turned himself in at around 10:30 p.m. He faces two counts of murder in the deaths of officers David …. Original source  : Police: Suspect surrenders in slayings of 2 Tampa officers during routine traffic stop.

Maoists may soon realise that India is not a soft state (Comment)

Knowingly or otherwise, the Maoists are engaged in a dangerous game which can ultimately prove disastrous for them. It is clear that their present tactics involve attacking the police and the paramilitary, mainly the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

After the deaths of 148 passengers as a result of the derailment of the Jnaneswari Express in …. Source  : Maoists may soon realise that India is not a soft state (Comment).

Police: Suspect in killing of 2 Tampa officers during routine traffic stop is under arrest

Suspect in killing of 2 Fla. officers under arrest

TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa police say a man suspected of killing two police officers is under arrest.
Authorities announced Dontae Morris’ arrest Friday evening. A news conference is scheduled for 11 p.m.
No further details were immediately released.
Morris is suspected of shooting to death Tampa officers David Curtis and [..] Read the original article: here.

Lawyer: Russian diplomat told daughter, NY spy suspect, to see police about fake passport

Lawyer: NY spy suspect’s dad told her to see cops

NEW YORK – A lawyer for a Russian diplomat’s daughter accused of being a spy said Friday that her father told her to go to police with a fake passport an undercover FBI agent had given to her, leading to her arrest and solitary confinement.
Attorney Robert …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

World Cup court in South Africa drops marijuana charges against Paris Hilton

Paris Hilton marijuana charges dropped in SAfrica

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa – A court in South Africa has dropped a marijuana-smoking case against Paris Hilton.
The socialite appeared late Friday in a FIFA World Cup courtroom after being arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana at a quarterfinal match between Brazil and the Netherlands.
The authorities dropped the …. Source  : World Cup court in South Africa drops marijuana charges against Paris Hilton.

Mexican police: Drug cartel enforcer says he targeted consulate employee for aiding rival gang

Mexican murder suspect: US consulate infiltrated

MEXICO CITY – The drug-cartel enforcer told an unsettling story: A woman who worked in the Mexican border’s biggest U.S. consulate had helped a rival gang obtain American visas. And for that, the enforcer said, he ordered her killed.
Nonsense, says a U.S. official, who said Friday the motive for the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mexican police: Drug cartel enforcer says he targeted consulate employee for aiding rival gang.

3 arrested as Los Angeles toy company accused of laundering drug money

Toy company accused of laundering drug money

LOS ANGELES – Three executives at a stuffed toy manufacturer were arrested Friday on suspicion of laundering millions of dollars for Mexican and Colombian drug traffickers, authorities said.
The arrests followed a two-year, multi-agency probe into the Angel Toy Corp., located in a downtown warehouse.
“It’s no small irony that a … Read more »»».

Police prepare for possible unrest as jury deliberates racially charged Calif transit shooting

Jurors deliberate California transit shooting case

LOS ANGELES – Police in Oakland underwent crowd-control training and were put on 12-hour shifts as they awaited a verdict in the shooting death of an unarmed black man by a white former transit officer who claimed he mistakenly drew his gun instead of his Taser.
A jury in Los Angeles …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Police report: UGA athletic director Evans urged officer to let him go before DUI arrest

Police report: UGA AD urged officer not to arrest

ATLANTA – University of Georgia athletic director Damon Evans repeatedly referred to his position at the school before his arrest on a drunken driving charge and asked the patrol officer if there was “anything you can do without arresting me,” according to a police report released Friday.
Evans … Read more : Police report: UGA athletic director Evans urged officer to let him go before DUI arrest.

Paris Hilton briefly appears in SAfrican court after being detained in possession of marijuana

Paris Hilton seen in South African courtroom

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa – Paris Hilton appeared briefly late Friday in a South African courtroom after being arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana.
Hilton appeared in a special FIFA World Cup court around midnight local time. Neither she nor court officials said anything and she was quickly led … Original article on : Paris Hilton briefly appears in SAfrican court after being detained in possession of marijuana.

High-ranking members of international, online child porn ring among 4 sentenced in Indiana

4 child porn ring members sentenced in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS – A federal judge sentenced two high-ranking members of a major international online child pornography ring to 15 years in prison Friday.
Michael Baratta, 49, of Sacramento, Calif., and William Watkins, 39, of Lake Worth, Fla., were among five people sentenced Friday on various child pornography charges related …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : High-ranking members of international, online child porn ring among 4 sentenced in Indiana.

Ohio man indicted in slaying of woman reported by her 5-year-old son to 911 dispatcher

Ohio man indicted in death reported by 5-year-old

DAYTON, Ohio – An Ohio man has been indicted in the shooting death of his estranged girlfriend, whose 5-year-old son reported her killing to a 911 dispatcher.
The Montgomery County prosecutor’s office says 26-year-old Damien Brown was indicted Friday on murder, felonious assault and weapons charges.
Investigators say Brown shot [..] Read the original article: here.

Browns defensive end Robaire Smith charged with carrying gun at airport in Michigan

Browns DE Smith faces gun charge in Michigan

FLINT, Mich. – Cleveland Browns defensive end Robaire Smith has been charged with carrying a gun in his luggage at Flint’s Bishop Airport.
Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton on Thursday charged the 32-year-old former Flint Northern High star with possession of a firearm in a sterile area of a … Read : Browns defensive end Robaire Smith charged with carrying gun at airport in Michigan.

Who am I? Children of accused Russian spies confront identity crisis and uncertain futures

Children of accused spies confront identity crisis

NEW YORK – Children often ask the question “Who am I?” as they come of age, but that’s nothing like the identity crisis now confronting the sons and daughters of four couples accused of spying for Russia.
Over a turbulent week, at least some, and maybe all, have discovered that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

2 kids of alleged Russian spies headed to motherland, others deal with uncertain future

2 kids of alleged spies headed to Russia
NEW YORK – At least two children who were born to one of four couples charged in a Russian spying ring, may soon be headed for new homes in Russia.

Federal prosecutors revealed Friday that a man and woman who had been posing as American Michael Zottoli and Canadian …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2 kids of alleged Russian spies headed to motherland, others deal with uncertain future.

State police: Arrest made in triple killing in northern Maine, fugitive apprehended in NH

Police: Arrest made in triple killing in Maine

AMITY, Maine – Police say a fingerprint and DNA from a beer can and cigarette butt led them to a man who allegedly confessed to killing two men and a boy in northern Maine.
A Maine State Police spokesman says 20-year-old Thayne Ormsby of Orient was charged Friday with …. Read the original article  : State police: Arrest made in triple killing in northern Maine, fugitive apprehended in NH.

APNewsBreak: UGA athletic director Evans urged officer to let him go before DUI arrest

APNewsBreak: UGA AD urged officer not to arrest

ATLANTA – Authorities say the University of Georgia athletic director repeatedly identified himself before his arrest on a charge of drunken driving and urged the patrol officer to let him go.
A Georgia State Patrol officer said in the report obtained Friday by The Associated Press that Damon Evans … Original article on : APNewsBreak: UGA athletic director Evans urged officer to let him go before DUI arrest.

Maoists call two-day strike to protest Azad’s killing

KOLKATA – The outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist has called for a two-day strike across the country from Wednesday to protest the gunning down of their senior politburo member Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad, top Maoist leader Kishenji said Sunday.

Condemning the killing of Azad, at Adilabad in Andhra Pradesh by police on Friday, the leftwing party …. Original article  : Maoists call two-day strike to protest Azad’s killing.

Pakistan PM agrees to hold terrorism conference after opposition calls for Taliban talks

Pakistan PM agrees to hold terrorism conference
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s prime minister agreed to hold a national conference on ways to combat terrorism after the main opposition leader said the government should negotiate with the country’s Taliban militants to improve security.
Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s decision late Saturday came just two days after a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan PM agrees to hold terrorism conference after opposition calls for Taliban talks.

Revolutionary songs mark Maoist leader Azad’s last rites

HYDERABAD – Sympathisers, former extremists and civil liberties activists Sunday sang revolutionary songs and paid their respects to top Maoist leader Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad, whose last rites were performed in Panjagutta here.

The body of Azad, who was killed by the police in an alleged exchange of fire in the forests of Adilabad district Friday, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Revolutionary songs mark Maoist leader Azad’s last rites.

Afghan forces kill 14 militants

KABUL – Afghan forces killed 14 militants including their commander in Wardak province, 40 km west of Kabul, an official spokesman said Sunday.

“The joint operation of Afghan army and police raided Taliban hideouts in Syedabad district late Saturday during which 14 Taliban fighters including their commander Mullah Tawab had been killed,” spokesman for … Read : Afghan forces kill 14 militants.

Pakistani PM agrees to hold terrorism conference after opposition calls for Taliban talks

Pakistani, PM agrees to terrorism conference
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s prime minister agreed to hold a national conference on ways to combat terrorism after the main opposition leader said the government should negotiate with the country’s Taliban militants to improve security.
Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s decision late Saturday came just two days after a … Read more »».

Mexico’s old ruling party seeks momentum in elections besieged by drug gang hits, scandals

Mexicans vote elections besieged by drug violence

CIUDAD VICTORIA, Mexico – A dozen Mexican states hold elections Sunday after a campaign marred by assassinations and other scandals that displayed drug cartels’ power. The party that ruled Mexico for 71 years hoped to capitalize on frustrations over the bloodshed and gain momentum in its bid to regain … Read more >>>.

Ecuadoreans, DEA seize drug-smuggling submarine before it can make its maiden voyage

Ecuadoreans, DEA seize drug-smuggling submarine

WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration said Saturday it has helped seize a submarine capable of transporting tons of cocaine.
DEA officials said that the diesel electric-powered submarine was constructed in a remote jungle and captured near a tributary close to the Ecuador-Colombia border. Ecuadorean authorities seized the sub before it could … Read more : Ecuadoreans, DEA seize drug-smuggling submarine before it can make its maiden voyage.

Authorities say 2 arrests linked to booby trap attacks on police in Southern California town

Chief: 2 arrests linked to Calif. police attacks

LOS ANGELES – Two men who investigators believe are linked to a series of booby trap attacks on police in a town in the Southern California desert have been arrested, authorities said Saturday.
Seventy-eight police officers, deputies and federal agents served a series of warrants Friday night and raided …. Original source  : Authorities say 2 arrests linked to booby trap attacks on police in Southern California town.

Ecuadorians, DEA seize drug-smuggling submarine

Ecuadorians, DEA seize drug-smuggling submarine

WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration said Saturday it has helped seize a submarine capable of transporting tons of cocaine.
DEA officials said that the diesel electric-powered submarine was constructed in a remote jungle and captured near a tributary close to the Ecuador-Colombia border. Ecuadorian authorities seized the sub before it could …. Read the original article  : here.

Petraeus to take control of Afghan NATO forces Sunday

WASHINGTON/KABUL – US General David Petraeus was to take command of NATO forces in Afghanistan Sunday after calling for a “unity of effort” among US civilian and military officials.

The four-star general will take over from General Stanley McChrystal, who was relieved of command for disparaging remarks about White House leadership of the US mission in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Petraeus to take control of Afghan NATO forces Sunday.

Van der Sloot files suit against first lawyer, charging him with posing as public defender

Van der Sloot files suit against initial lawyer

LIMA, Peru – Joran van der Sloot has sued the lawyer who represented him during a police interrogation on the day that authorities say the Dutchman confessed to killing a Peruvian woman, his current attorney said Saturday.
Maximo Altez told The Associated Press he filed suit Friday charging attorney …. Read the original article  : Van der Sloot files suit against first lawyer, charging him with posing as public defender.

Authorities say 2 arrests linked to booby trap attacks on police in Southern Calif. town

Officials: Arrests linked to Calif. police attacks

HEMET, Calif. – Authorities say there have been two arrests linked to a series of booby trap attacks on police in a small Southern California town.
The Press-Enterprise reports that detectives served a series of warrants Friday night and arrested 40-year-old Nicholas John Smit of Hemet and 36-year-old Steven Hansen …. Original source  : Authorities say 2 arrests linked to booby trap attacks on police in Southern Calif. town.

Appeals court says Algerian man at Guantanamo should get new hearing

Appeals court orders new hearing for detainee

WASHINGTON – A U.S. appeals court says an Algerian protesting his Guantanamo detention deserves a new lower court review – to determine whether he was part of al-Qaida, not just a supporter.
A three-judge panel of the District of Columbia Circuit reversed a lower court decision that Belkacem Bensayah’s imprisonment …. Original source  : Appeals court says Algerian man at Guantanamo should get new hearing.

EX-ND student convicted of marrying Bosnian woman for $15K in fairy tale wedding gets released

Ex-ND student convicted of marriage fraud released

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – A former University of North Dakota student who pleaded guilty to marrying a Bosnian woman for $15,000 in a fairy tale wedding is being released to live with his father in Arizona.
Jeffrey Goble originally was ordered to stay in a Fargo halfway house until his … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : EX-ND student convicted of marrying Bosnian woman for $15K in fairy tale wedding gets released.

Cyprus president says island’s authorities not at fault for vanishing of Russian spy suspect

Cyprus president: Not our fault spy suspect fled

NICOSIA, Cyprus – The president of Cyprus said Saturday the island’s authorities are not to blame for the disappearance of an alleged fugitive Russian spy.
Dimitris Christofias said that 54-year-old Christopher Metsos “appears to have fled” the island, but insisted Cypriot authorities acted appropriately in handling the case. His …. Read the original article  : here.

Nothing to snort at: Colombian authorities find World Cup trophy made of cocaine at airport

Colombian cops find World Cup _ made of cocaine

BOGOTA, Colombia – Fans worldwide have fashioned replicas of the World Cup trophy out of everything from papier-mache to plastic. But a lawbreaker in Colombia gets top prize for most original material: cocaine.
Airports anti-drug chief Col. Jose Piedrahita says that Colombian authorities found the unusual statue during [..] Read the original article: here.

NY spy suspect wants to stay in US, “embarrassed” over photos in papers, lawyer tells AP

NY spy suspect wants to stay here, lawyer tells AP

NEW YORK – The Russian diplomat’s daughter accused of being a spy is “embarrassed” by photos of her that have turned up in media reports and fears she will be deported, her lawyer said.
Attorney Robert Baum told The Associated Press that he showed Anna Chapman, 28, … Read more : NY spy suspect wants to stay in US, “embarrassed” over photos in papers, lawyer tells AP.

2 slain Fla. cops mourned at funeral while suspect denied bond at hearing across town

2 slain Fla. cops mourned as suspect denied bond

TAMPA, Fla. – Two police officers gunned down during a traffic stop were remembered Saturday as family men devoted to protecting the public, while the convicted felon accused of killing them was ordered to remain in jail the day after he surrendered.
Dontae Rashawn Morris, 24, was denied … Read more >>.

Legal circus making Texas financier Stanford’s $7 billion fraud case greatest show in court

Stanford lawyer not focused on case’s legal circus

HOUSTON – It might not be the Greatest Show on Earth but the legal circus in the $7 billion fraud case against jailed Texas financier R. Allen Stanford is possibly making it the greatest show in court.
So far, the criminal and civil cases against Stanford have included claims … Read more »»».

Maine triple slaying suspect planned to live with woman who had child with victim, police say

Maine suspect planned to live with victim’s child

AMITY, Maine – A man who police say confessed to killing two men and a boy in Maine was planning to move in with a woman who had a child with one of the men.
Twenty-year-old Thayne Ormsby of Orient was arrested Friday in New Hampshire, where he was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maine triple slaying suspect planned to live with woman who had child with victim, police say.

Mystery shrouds Assam ultra leader’s arrest in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Mystery shrouds the reported arrest of an Indian militant leader in Nepal with the Nepali authorities denying any knowledge of it.

Nepal’s home ministry Monday denied having any information about the arrest of Niranjan Hojai, leader of Assam’s banned Dima Halim Daoga group.
Hojai, who belongs to the Jewel faction of the underground [..] Read the original article: here.

UN spotlight puts Maoist child soldier in peril

KATHMANDU – After rubbing shoulders with top UN officials in New York and basking in limelight, former Maoist child soldier Sita Tamang has to now pay the penalty for the indiscretion with her former comrades threatening her.

The 18-year-old, who was forcibly recruited by the Maoists five years ago when they were fighting to overthrow the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : UN spotlight puts Maoist child soldier in peril.

Rooney, Ronaldo, now Messi _ soccer’s biggest stars misfire at World Cup

Rooney, Ronaldo, now Messi – stars misfire in Cup

CAPE TOWN, South Africa – Rooney, then Ronaldo and now Messi.
They were supposed to light up the World Cup after scoring a total of 114 goals for their clubs this season, but left South Africa with only one goal in 13 matches.
Wayne Rooney huffed and puffed but …. Read the original article  : Rooney, Ronaldo, now Messi _ soccer’s biggest stars misfire at World Cup.

Police patrol streets in China’s Xinjiang region on anniversary of ethnic rioting

Police patrol China region on riot anniversary

BEIJING – Teams of police patrolled streets in the western region of Xinjiang on Monday as stringent security was imposed for the one-year anniversary of China’s worst ethnic violence in decades.
An ethnic Han Chinese man who runs the Little West Gate Family Hotel in the regional capital of Urumqi … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police patrol streets in China’s Xinjiang region on anniversary of ethnic rioting.

Mexican president’s allies head to surprising wins in elections; turnout low in violent states

Mexican president’s allies lead in key elections

CIUDAD VICTORIA, Mexico – President Felipe Calderon’s allies headed toward some surprising victories in Mexican state elections marred by drug gang violence so severe only a trickle of citizens voted in one state where the leading gubernatorial candidate was slain.
The opposition Institutional Revolutionary Party, the former longtime ruling party, …. Source article  : Mexican president’s allies head to surprising wins in elections; turnout low in violent states.

Chinese court sentences US geologist tortured by state security agents to 8 years in jail

Chinese court sentences US geologist to 8 years

BEIJING – An American geologist detained and tortured by China’s state security agents over an oil industry database was jailed for eight years Monday in a troubling example of China’s rough justice system and the way the U.S. government handles cases against its citizens.
Beijing’s No. 1 Intermediate People’s …. Source  : Chinese court sentences US geologist tortured by state security agents to 8 years in jail.

Police say suspect in shooting death of 4-month-old in Los Angeles jail after Mexico capture

Police: Suspect in baby shooting in Calif. jail

LOS ANGELES – A suspect in the shooting death of a 4-month-old boy killed after a family baptism celebration was in a Los Angeles County jail Sunday, three days after he was captured in Mexico and 10 months after a warrant was issued for his arrest.
Ricardo Hernandez, 24, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police say suspect in shooting death of 4-month-old in Los Angeles jail after Mexico capture.

Wash. mom now knows what happened to her son: Killers confess after 2 decades of frustration

After 20 years, mom now knows what happened to son

TACOMA, Wash. – Karen Hull has been waiting 20 years to find out what happened to her son Walter in 1990. She finally knows.
Two decades after the 16-year-old Puyallup boy disappeared, one of his former classmates has confessed to murder, police said. Troy Culver was charged … Original article on : Wash. mom now knows what happened to her son: Killers confess after 2 decades of frustration.

Drug-smuggling submarine seized in Ecuador jungle is quantum leap for traffickers, DEA says

DEA: Seized submarine quantum leap for narcos

BOGOTA, Colombia – A 100-foot (33-meter), twin-screw diesel submarine seized at a jungle shipyard in Ecuador marks a quantum, if anticipated, leap in drug-smuggling evasion technology, the top U.S. counter-drug official for the region said Sunday.
“It is the first fully functional, completely submersible submarine for transoceanic voyages that we …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Drug-smuggling submarine seized in Ecuador jungle is quantum leap for traffickers, DEA says.

Seven arrested after firing in Lahore

LAHORE – Seven people were arrested in Lahore Sunday after a shooting incident near the Data Ganj Baksh shrine where two suicide bombers killed at least 42 people and injured 175 on July 1, police said.

Anti-terror police force conducted a search operation and raided hotels and markets near the shrine. They arrested seven men, including … Read more »».

Ex-hot dog champ can’t swallow being on sidelines, crashes event after Chestnut wins 4th title

Hotdoggin’ it: Ex-champ crashes NYC eating contest

NEW YORK – A Japanese eating champion who sat out this year’s Coney Island Fourth of July hot dog contest apparently couldn’t resist the temptation to hotdog afterward.
Competitive eater Joey “Jaws” Chestnut gobbled his way to a fourth consecutive championship Sunday. But he was suddenly upstaged by the surprise …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ex-hot dog champ can’t swallow being on sidelines, crashes event after Chestnut wins 4th title.

Person with knowledge of negotiations: Damon Evans out as Georgia’s athletic director

AP Source: Georgia AD Damon Evans is out
ATLANTA – A person familiar with the decision says Damon Evans is out as Georgia’s athletic director.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because no official announcement has been made. The person said Sunday it was unclear whether Evans resigned or was fired.
A conference … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Person with knowledge of negotiations: Damon Evans out as Georgia’s athletic director.

New Mexico investigators say medical waste case involves 45 separate bodies

Officials: Medical waste case involves 45 bodies

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator says 45 separate bodies are involved in a case that began in March when heads and other parts traced to an Albuquerque business were discovered at a Kansas medical waste facility.
Medical investigators say they have identified 127 of … Read more : New Mexico investigators say medical waste case involves 45 separate bodies.

Chestnut wins 4th hot dog eating title; Kobayashi taken into custody after jumping on stage

Ex-champ arrested at NYC hot dog event
NEW YORK – A Japanese eating champion who sat out this year’s Coney Island Fourth of July hot dog contest apparently couldn’t resist the temptation to hotdog afterward.

Competitive eater Joey “Jaws” Chestnut gobbled his way to a fourth consecutive championship Sunday. But he was suddenly upstaged by the surprise …. Source article  : Chestnut wins 4th hot dog eating title; Kobayashi taken into custody after jumping on stage.

Maoists kill three in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoists hacked to death three civilians they termed “police informers” in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district Sunday, a police officer said.

The villagers were abducted by armed Maoists Saturday from a remote area of the district, Bhopalpattanam, 550 km south from here, where their bodies were found at a roadside Sunday. As per Maoists’ leaflets found … Read more : Maoists kill three in Chhattisgarh.

Detroit teen convicted in drug den slayings recants confession, seeks help from hit man

Teen convicted of murder seeks help from hit man

DETROIT – Davontae Sanford was just 14 when he told police he killed four people in a drug den, drawing their bodies like stick figures to show where the victims died – on the floor, a couch, a chair.
Sanford was sentenced to at least 38 years in …. Original article  : Detroit teen convicted in drug den slayings recants confession, seeks help from hit man.

Mystery deepens over identity of ‘journalist’ killed with Azad

HYDERABAD – The mystery over the identity of a “journalist” killed along with top Maoist leader Azad in the alleged exchange of fire with police Friday deepened with the the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist issuing contradictory statements.

While a statement sent to some newspapers, purportedly by the central committee of the outfit identifed Hemchandra Pandey … Read more »».

The monks’ progress: Fake diplomas, Africans in the basement and a no-tell motel monastery

‘Holy men’ blaze curious trail across country

CANFIELD, Ohio – The monks seemed to come out of nowhere.
They arrived from Cleveland last fall – Archbishop Timothy and Father Anthony and the cleric in charge, Metropolitan Stephen. In their billowing black robes, they were looking for a new base for the Syro Russian Orthodox Catholic Church.
It was …. Source  : The monks’ progress: Fake diplomas, Africans in the basement and a no-tell motel monastery.

Maoists blow up key bridge in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoists blew up Sunday a bridge on a national highway connecting Chhattisgarh to Andhra Pradesh in the state’s worst insurgency-hit Dantewada district, police said.

The rebels blew up the bridge on national highway 221 by using an improvised explosive device (IED). The road is key link between Dantewada district and Andhra Pradesh’s Khammam district, … Read more »»».

AP Exclusive: North Korean defector killed for going back with 20 bibles to spread Gospel

AP Exclusive: NKorean killed for spreading Gospel

SEOUL, South Korea – Like most North Koreans, Son Jong Nam knew next to nothing about Christianity when he fled to neighboring China in 1998.
Eleven years later, he died back in North Korea in prison, reportedly tortured to death for trying to spread the Gospel in his native land, … Read more »»».

China rejects criticism of US geologist’s 8-year prison sentence over oil industry database

China rejects criticism of US geologist’s sentence

BEIJING – China on Tuesday rejected U.S. criticism of its treatment of an American geologist who was sentenced to eight years in prison for spying and collecting state secrets.
The U.S. Embassy issued a statement calling for Xue Feng’s immediate release and deportation to the United States after he was …. Original article  : China rejects criticism of US geologist’s 8-year prison sentence over oil industry database.

Trooper killed in firing from Pakistan

JAMMU – A Border Security Force (BSF) trooper was killed when Pakistani Rangers opened fire at a forward post of the Indian border guards in Jammu and Kashmir’s Akhnoor sector early Tuesday.

Pakistani Rangers started firing at the Chak Sagwali post in Pargwal area, about 45 km northwest of Jammu, around 6.15 a.m., officials said. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Trooper killed in firing from Pakistan.

Once a quiet, withdrawn teen, Alvin Greene emerges from obscurity to take on powerful senator

Once a withdrawn teen, man now takes on senator

MANNING, S.C. – Alvin Greene earned the nickname “turtle” in high school – a quiet, withdrawn boy who was smart when he applied himself but rarely took a chance and tried to put himself in comfortable situations.
Nearly four weeks ago, the 32-year-old unemployed military veteran turned South …. Source article  : Once a quiet, withdrawn teen, Alvin Greene emerges from obscurity to take on powerful senator.

On front line in war on terrorism, it’s spy vs. spy among supposed friends CIA and Pakistan

CIA and Pakistan locked in aggressive spy battles

WASHINGTON – A Pakistani man approached CIA officers in Islamabad last year, offering to give up secrets of his country’s closely guarded nuclear program. To prove he was a trustworthy source, he claimed to possess spent nuclear fuel rods.
But the CIA had its doubts. Before long, the suspicious …. Original article  : On front line in war on terrorism, it’s spy vs. spy among supposed friends CIA and Pakistan.

Lindsay Lohan due in court for probation hearing that could end with star sent to jail

Lindsay Lohan due in court for probation hearing

LOS ANGELES – The next stage of Lindsay Lohan’s life is in a judge’s hands.
The starlet is scheduled to appear Tuesday in a Beverly Hills, Calif., courtroom for a probation revocation hearing that could end with Lohan either headed for jail or her next movie role.
The hearing is … Read more »».

Maoists blow up Orissa school building

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas blew up a school building in Orissa’s Malkangiri district early Tuesday.

About 30-40 rebels blasted the school building at MV 21 village, about 640 km from here, when no one was inside, a district police official told IANS.
The attack came ahead of a two-day nationwide shutdown called by the rebels …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists blow up Orissa school building.

BSF trooper killed in firing from Pakistan

JAMMU – A Border Security Force (BSF) trooper was killed Tuesday morning in firing by Pakistani Rangers from across the border in Jammu and Kashmir’s Akhnoor sector, an official said.

There was heavy fire from across the border killing the trooper, the BSF official said.
… Read more : BSF trooper killed in firing from Pakistan.

Hafiz Saeed barred from leaving Pakistan

LAHORE – Jamat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed, who India says masterminded the 2008 Mumbai attacks, has been barred from travelling abroad after the Pakistan government banned 23 terror groups operating under new names after being outlawed.

The Punjab government directed the police to keep a strict vigil on 1,690 office-bearers and workers of the banned outfits. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Prosecutor undecided on whether to charge Wash. man accused of using bow on suspected burglar

Charges undecided in Wash. hunting bow case

KELSO, Wash. – A prosecutor in Washington state says she’s still deciding how to proceed with a December case in which authorities say a man shot a prowler in the buttocks with a hunting bow.
Cowlitz County prosecutor Sue Baur says she’s been studying related case law but has yet … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prosecutor undecided on whether to charge Wash. man accused of using bow on suspected burglar.

Imam entangled in terrorism case leaves US; some parting words are ‘God bless America’

Imam entangled in terrorism case leaves US

NEW YORK – The imam entangled in the investigation into a suicide bomb plot against New York City subway stations left the U.S. Monday on court orders after admitting he lied to the FBI. Among his final words on U.S. soil, his lawyer says, were “God bless America.”
Ahmad Wais …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Imam entangled in terrorism case leaves US; some parting words are ‘God bless America’.

Imam entangled in terrorism case deported; some parting words are ‘God bless America’

Imam entangled in terrorism case deported
NEW YORK – An imam who pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI during the investigation into a suicide bomb plot against New York City subway stations has been deported.

The lawyer for Ahmad Afzali (AKH’-mahd ahf-ZAH’-lee) says Afzali and his wife left on a Saudi Arabian Airlines flight to Jeddah … Read : Imam entangled in terrorism case deported; some parting words are ‘God bless America’.

Police: Gunman opens fire at July 4 gathering in Los Angeles, killing 14-year-old girl

Girl shot in LA during July 4th gathering
LOS ANGELES – Police are seeking the gunman who opened fire at a July 4th gathering near downtown Los Angeles, shooting and killing a 14-year-old girl.

Police said Monday the suspect was apparently aiming at rival gang members the previous evening when he opened fire on the group, striking …. Read the original article  : Police: Gunman opens fire at July 4 gathering in Los Angeles, killing 14-year-old girl.

Police: Ex-Oakland Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell arrested on drug possession charge in Alabama

Ex-Raiders QB Russell arrested on Ala. drug charge

MOBILE, Ala. – Former Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell has been charged with possession of a controlled substance – codeine syrup – after being arrested at his home in Alabama on Monday, authorities said.
The 24-year-old former LSU star and the No. 1 draft choice in 2007 was arrested … Read : Police: Ex-Oakland Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell arrested on drug possession charge in Alabama.

Leslie Van Houten, a Charles Manson follower, hopes for parole in 19th try at age 60

Manson follower faces parole board for 19th time

LOS ANGELES – Leslie Van Houten, the one-time Charles Manson follower long seen as the most likely of his ex-acolytes to win freedom someday, faces her 19th parole hearing on Tuesday with a new lawyer and new case law which may give her the best chance yet for …. Original source  : Leslie Van Houten, a Charles Manson follower, hopes for parole in 19th try at age 60.

Resurgence eludes Mexico’s old rulers in state elections that show no party is on top

Vote shows Mexicans have little faith in any party

CIUDAD VICTORIA, Mexico – After a Super Sunday of elections across Mexico that was widely seen as a test for the 2012 presidential race and the nation’s future, the winner turns out to be – well, not really anyone.
President Felipe Calderon’s party is weak, the left is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Resurgence eludes Mexico’s old rulers in state elections that show no party is on top.

British court holds extradition hearing for ex-Bosnian vice president accused of war crimes

Hearing opens in Britain for ex-Bosnian leader

LONDON – A former Bosnian vice president arrested on war crimes charges Monday protested his potential extradition from Britain to Serbia, claiming authorities in Belgrade won’t give him a fair trial.
Ejup Ganic told reporters outside a London court that Serbia’s extradition request was politically motivated and distorted facts. He …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : British court holds extradition hearing for ex-Bosnian vice president accused of war crimes.

Japanese hot dog eating champ leaves NY jail after hot dog fracas, says he’s hungry

Eating champ leaves NY jail after hot dog fracas

NEW YORK – Japanese eating champion Takeru Kobayashi, arrested at a July Fourth hot dog-eating contest, was freed Monday after a night in jail, looking a little weary and saying he was hungry.
Kobayashi, wearing a black T-shirt bearing the message “Free Kobi” in green letters, was freed … Original article on : Japanese hot dog eating champ leaves NY jail after hot dog fracas, says he’s hungry.

Israeli man suspected of involvement in Dubai slaying appears in Polish court

Alleged Mossad spy appears in Polish court

WARSAW, Poland – A Polish court demanded more documents Monday in the extradition case of an Israeli man suspected of being a Mossad agent involved in the slaying of a Hamas leader in Dubai.
Uri Brodsky is suspected of helping forge a German passport that was used by a member …. Original source  : Israeli man suspected of involvement in Dubai slaying appears in Polish court.

Top rights group says Cuba political prisoners down to 167, nearly half of total from ‘06

Cuban political prisoners list dips to 167

HAVANA – The number of political prisoners in Cuba continued a notable decline in the first half of 2010, the island’s top human rights monitor said Monday, meaning their ranks have dropped by nearly half since Raul Castro took power in 2006.
The Cuban Commission on Human Rights and National … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Top rights group says Cuba political prisoners down to 167, nearly half of total from ‘06.

Ousted Ill. Gov. Blagojevich and brother face corruption trial together, but are mostly apart

Tried together, Blagojevich brothers often apart
CHICAGO – Rod Blagojevich’s friends scattered as investigators looking into his doomed Illinois governorship closed in. Some associates had already been indicted, others stopped returning calls.
So when the Democrat needed a campaign fund manager, he turned to someone who had stood with him on the sometimes mean Chicago … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ousted Ill. Gov. Blagojevich and brother face corruption trial together, but are mostly apart.

Hamas launches arrest campaign against collaborators with Israel

Hamas arrests alleged collaborators with Israel

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – The militant Hamas group launched a campaign to arrest suspected collaborators with Israel in the Gaza Strip, detaining five in overnight raids, a Hamas security official said Wednesday.
The raids began after a two-month amnesty for collaborators expired and just three months after two collaborators were …. Original source  : Hamas launches arrest campaign against collaborators with Israel.

Yemen: 2 al-Qaida militants sentenced to death over attacks on police and army

Yemeni court sentences 2 al-Qaida members to death

SAN’A, Yemen – A Yemeni court has convicted two al-Qaida militants for killing senior police and army officers and sentenced them to death.
Wednesday’s swift trial was held in the capital San’a and took place without attorneys for the defendants.
Dressed in blue jumpsuits, 23-year-old Mubarak el-Shabawni and 18-year-old Mansour …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoist shutdown hits road, rail traffic in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Road and rail services were hit in Orissa’s interiors Wednesday as Maoists enforced a 48-hour nationwide shutdown to protest against the killing of a top leader in Andhra Pradesh.

“Traffic was thin in some areas of Malkangiri and Rayagada districts as heavy vehicles went off the road. Government buses are not plying in Rayagada …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoist strike hits life, iron ore shipment in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – The two-day shutdown by the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) that began Wednesday hit life in Chhattisgarh’s vast interiors, particularly in Bastar region where iron ore transportation was hindered.

The strike began amid fear of violence and tight security arrangements in the 40,000 sq km Maoist stronghold of Bastar where weekly markets wore … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maoist strike hits life, iron ore shipment in Chhattisgarh.

Police say Hemet booby trap suspect to be charged in attacks against police officers

Police: Hemet booby trap suspect to be charged

HEMET, Calif. – A man suspected of carrying out a series of booby trap attacks against police in a small Southern California town was expected to be charged in the case Wednesday, authorities said.
Nicholas Smit was arrested Friday for investigation of making a booby trap and assault on …. Read the original article  : here.

Maoist shutdown hits life in three Bengal districts

KOLKATA – Normal life was hit in tribal-dominated areas of three West Bengal districts as Maoists began a two-day shutdown Wednesday to protest the killing of their spokesperson Azad in Andhra Pradesh.

The shutdown was total in West Midnapore district’s tribal-populated areas like Binpur, Goaltore, Lalgarh and Salboni, said Deputy Superintendent of Police (Operation) Aneesh Sarkar. …. Read the original article  : here.

Police say Calif. booby trap suspect to be charged in attacks on police officers

Police: Calif. booby trap suspect to be charged

HEMET, Calif. – Prosecutors say charges will be announced Wednesday against a man suspected of carrying out a series of booby trap attacks against police in a small Southern California town.
Nicholas Smit was arrested Friday for investigation of making a booby trap and assault on a police officer …. Read the original article  : Police say Calif. booby trap suspect to be charged in attacks on police officers.

Executive says Blagojevich mentioned prospect of billions in state money, asked for donations

Witness: Blago spoke of fundraising, road program
CHICAGO – One of Gerald Krozel’s cement factories had been shuttered and other construction businesses were hurting, so when Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich mentioned the prospect of billions in state money for new roads, he knew it could be a boon to the industry.
Krozel, a prominent figure …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Executive says Blagojevich mentioned prospect of billions in state money, asked for donations.

Lindsay Lohan’s future is on hold as she does 90 days in jail, then residential rehab

Lohan’s future on hold until jail, rehab are done

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – Lindsay Lohan’s future includes a new fashion line, two new movies, some time in jail and another stint in rehab.
The actress was sentenced Tuesday to 90 days in jail and 90 days in a residential substance-abuse program for violating her probation stemming from …. Read the original article  : Lindsay Lohan’s future is on hold as she does 90 days in jail, then residential rehab.

China executes justice official caught in massive mob corruption crackdown in Chongqing

China executes Chongqing justice official
BEIING – China executed the former top justice official in the southwestern city of Chongqing on Wednesday – the highest ranking person caught in a massive crackdown on violent gangs and corrupt officials who protect them.

Wen Qiang, 55, former director of the Chongqing Municipal Judicial Bureau, was convicted in April of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : China executes justice official caught in massive mob corruption crackdown in Chongqing.

Maoist strike begins in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – A two-day shutdown by the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) began Wednesday in Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region amid fear of violence and tight security arrangements, police said.

Bus services were hit as transporters kept their vehicles off roads fearing attacks, a senior official at police headquarters here told IANS.
“Rebels have placed heavy wooden … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maoist strike begins in Chhattisgarh.

Maoist shutdown evokes partial response in parts of Andhra

HYDERABAD – The 48-hour shutdown called by the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) to protest the killing of their spokesperson Azad evoked partial response in parts of Andhra Pradesh Wednesday.

The shutdown affected normal life in Maoist-infested tribal areas in the districts bordering Orissa and Chhattisgarh as authorities suspended bus services and cancelled few …. Source  : Maoist shutdown evokes partial response in parts of Andhra.

Leslie Van Houten Denied Parole

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- On Tuesday one-time Charles Mason follower Leslie Van Houten was denied parole by the Parole board for her involvement in the brutal murder of Leno and Rosemary La Bianca. It is for the 19th time that Leslie Van Houten has been denied parole by the board. The chairman of the parole … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Leslie Van Houten Denied Parole.

Italian executive for California valve company extradited to US to face conspiracy charges

Italian executive extradited to US in bribery case

LOS ANGELES – An Italian citizen who ran a California company has been extradited to the U.S. from Germany to face charges in an alleged bribery conspiracy.
Control Components Inc. Vice President Flavio Ricotti, was arrested in February and arrived in the U.S. on Friday. CCI is based in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Italian executive for California valve company extradited to US to face conspiracy charges.

Japan court convicts NZ activist of obstructing whaling mission, orders suspended sentence

Japan court convicts NZ anti-whaling activist

TOKYO – A Tokyo court on Wednesday convicted a New Zealand activist of assault and obstructing the Japanese whaling mission in the Antarctic Ocean, sentencing him to a suspended prison term.
Peter Bethune was also found guilty of three other charges: trespassing, vandalism and possession of a knife. He had pleaded …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Japan court convicts NZ activist of obstructing whaling mission, orders suspended sentence.

Grammy-winning Russian pianist-conductor Pletnev charged with pedophilia in Thai beach town

Russian pianist accused of pedophilia in Thailand

BANGKOK, Thailand – Internationally acclaimed Russian pianist and conductor Mikhail Vasillievich Pletnev has been charged with raping a 14-year-old boy in a Thai beach town, police said Wednesday.
Mikhail Vasilievich Pletnev, the founder of the Russian National Orchestra, was charged Tuesday with rape and appearing in compromising photographs with several …. Source  : Grammy-winning Russian pianist-conductor Pletnev charged with pedophilia in Thai beach town.

AZ man accused of trying to trade in car after fatal hit-and-run pleads guilty to manslaughter

Phoenix man pleads guilty in fatal hit-and-run

PHOENIX – A Phoenix man accused of trying to use the government’s Cash for Clunkers program to ditch his BMW after a fatal hit-and-run crash last year has pleaded guilty to manslaughter.
Maricopa County prosecutors say 24-year-old Timothy M. Kissida was driving his luxury car shortly after midnight Aug. 8 …. Original article  : AZ man accused of trying to trade in car after fatal hit-and-run pleads guilty to manslaughter.

Seven trains cancelled in Jharkhand due to Maoist strike

RANCHI – Seven trains were cancelled and routes of five diverted in Jharkhand Wednesday as Maoists began their two-day strike in seven states to protest the killing of their top leader in Andhra Pradesh.

“Seven trains have been cancelled and the routes of five trains have been diverted in view of the Maoist strike,” a railway … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Seven trains cancelled in Jharkhand due to Maoist strike.

NFL great Jim Brown asks appeals court to reverse dismissal of suit against video game maker

NFL great Jim Brown appeals lawsuit dismissal

SAN FRANCISCO – NFL Hall of Famer Jim Brown is asking a San Francisco appellate court to overturn a federal judge’s decision to dismiss his lawsuit against video game maker Electronic Arts.
Brown filed the request Tuesday with the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. He argues U.S. District Judge … Original article on : NFL great Jim Brown asks appeals court to reverse dismissal of suit against video game maker.

Chavez says suspected Colombian drug lord arrested in Venezuela, will be deported to US

Venezuela captures alleged Colombian drug lord

CARACAS, Venezuela – The last remaining fugitive capo of Colombia’s Norte del Valle drug cartel has been captured in Venezuela and will be extradited to the United States, President Hugo Chavez announced Tuesday.
Carlos Alberto “Beto” Renteria, 65, was arrested Monday after he traveled to Venezuela’s Margarita Island, Chavez said during …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chavez says suspected Colombian drug lord arrested in Venezuela, will be deported to US.

Osama’s statue found inside garden gnome

LONDON – A Briton was left dumbstruck when he accidentally broke a garden gnome and out popped a statue of Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden.

Joseph Balfour, 73, who lives in the tiny village of Mossblown, Ayrshire, said: “I was watering some bedding plants and I caught the hose round a gnome. It fell over …. Original article  : Osama’s statue found inside garden gnome.

Neighbors: Man accused in Los Angeles prostitute slayings kept photos of sex workers in garage

Accused LA serial killer said to visit prostitutes

LOS ANGELES – To many of his neighbors and customers, Lonnie Franklin Jr. was just a friendly mechanic who often stopped to chat as he tinkered on cars in the front driveway of his mint-green house on 81st Street.
But after police identified him as a serial killer Wednesday, …. Source  : Neighbors: Man accused in Los Angeles prostitute slayings kept photos of sex workers in garage.

Moscow prison abuzz ahead of expected spy swap; NY court to decide fate of 10 arrested in US

Russian, US spy suspects brace for possible swap

MOSCOW – Evidence is mounting that Russia and the United States are preparing for the largest spy swap since the Cold War.
In Moscow, riot police on Thursday secured the perimeter of a prison thought to be holding convicted spies for the West as convoy of armored vehicles arrived [..] Read the original article: here.

Officials: 3 arrested in Norway al-Qaida bomb plot linked to failed NY, England attacks

Officials: 3 arrested in Norway al-Qaida bomb plot

OSLO – Three suspected al-Qaida members were arrested Thursday morning in what Norwegian and U.S. officials said was a terrorist plot linked to similar plans in New York and England.
The three men, whose names were not released, had been under surveillance for more than a year. Officials believe … Original source on Gaea Times at : Officials: 3 arrested in Norway al-Qaida bomb plot linked to failed NY, England attacks.

Norwegian security police arrest 3 people on suspicion of terrorism

Norway officials arrest 3 suspected of terrorism

OSLO, Norway – The Norwegian Police Security Service says it has arrested three people on suspicion of “preparing terror activities.”
The security police say in a statement that the three suspects were arrested Thursday, but it does not give any more details.
A news conference about the arrests will be held [..] Read the original article: here.

Drew Peterson may find out if he’ll be released from jail during appeal of hearsay evidence

Peterson’s lawyers seek his release during appeal

JOLIET, Ill. – Charged in the death of his third wife and a suspect in the disappearance of his fourth, former suburban Chicago police officer Drew Peterson could find out Thursday if he’ll be released from jail while prosecutors appeal a decision that excludes evidence considered crucial to their … Read more »».

Tapes played at trial reveal Blagojevich shaken as he learns feds have been listening in

Tapes played at trial reveal shaken Blagojevich
CHICAGO – It’s in his voice – a moment when Rod Blagojevich seems to realize he may be in big trouble.
In other wiretap recordings played at his corruption trial, the ousted governor is rarely at a loss for words – and often profane – as … Original article on : Tapes played at trial reveal Blagojevich shaken as he learns feds have been listening in.

Senior police intelligence official assassinated outside home near Afghan capital

Senior Afghan police official assassinated

KABUL, Afghanistan – A senior Afghan police intelligence chief was assassinated and his bodyguard killed near the capital, an official said Thursday, the latest government figure to be targeted as violence spirals in the country.
Elsewhere, the international security force said it had captured a suspected Taliban-linked supplier of bomb-making materials overnight …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoist strike hits rural Bihar

PATNA – Life in parts of rural Bihar was badly hit on the second day of a Maoist shutdown Thursday called to protest the killing of one of their top leaders, police sources said.

Police sources told IANS that fear of Maoist violence forced closure of markets in rural areas of East Champaran, Gaya, Aurangabad, Arwal …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoist strike hits rural Bihar.

Reports: Russian pianist-conductor Pletnev charged with raping teen may have left Thailand

Reports: Pianist leaves Thailand after rape charge

BANGKOK – Acclaimed pianist and conductor Mikhail Vasillievich Pletnev may have left Thailand days after he was charged with raping a teenage boy, his housekeeper and news reports said Thursday.
Pletnev, who was arrested at a restaurant Monday in the beach town of Pattaya, left Thailand aboard an Aeroflot flight, …. Read the original article  : Reports: Russian pianist-conductor Pletnev charged with raping teen may have left Thailand.

Thai court releases British anti-government protester after guilty plea, will be deported

British protester in Thailand will be deported

BANGKOK – A Briton involved in bloody anti-government protests was freed Thursday by a Thai court after pleading guilty to various charges and will be deported within the next few days.
The court convicted Jeff Savage, 48, of inciting violence, violating an emergency decree imposed during the two-month-long protests and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Thai court releases British anti-government protester after guilty plea, will be deported.

Bahamas burglaries blamed on ‘barefoot bandit’ as teen fugitive eludes FBI-aided manhunt

Bahamas burglaries blamed on ‘barefoot bandit’

MARSH HARBOUR, Bahamas – A teenage fugitive with a celebrated history of escapes has allegedly committed several nighttime burglaries in the Bahamas, eluding an FBI-aided manhunt on the sliver of an island where he crash-landed a stolen plane.
Investigators pursuing Colton Harris-Moore were following a trail of break-ins from the southern … Read : Bahamas burglaries blamed on ‘barefoot bandit’ as teen fugitive eludes FBI-aided manhunt.

Priest, nun in underground Chinese church found dead in pool of blood, no suspects arrested

Priest, nun in underground Chinese church killed

BEIJING – A priest and nun who belonged to an unauthorized congregation in northern China were found slain in the hospice where they worked, a local priest said Thursday. Police have made no arrests.
The pair were found dead Tuesday at the hospice in Inner Mongolia’s Wuhai city, said Zhang … Original source on Gaea Times at : Priest, nun in underground Chinese church found dead in pool of blood, no suspects arrested.

Maoists torch police station building, abduct policeman

BHUBANESWAR – Maoists set furniture and other stuff inside a police building on fire in Orissa’s Keonjhar district and abducted a police officer, officials said Thursday, the second day of the shutdown called by the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) in six states.

About 30-40 armed rebels, including several women cadres, attacked the building late Wednesday … Read more : Maoists torch police station building, abduct policeman.

New York subway bomb plot hatched in Pakistan: US

WASHINGTON – Veteran Al Qaeda terrorist leaders in Pakistan directed and managed a foiled 2009 suicide bomb plot to attack New York’s subways and a related terror plot in Britain, US prosecutors have alleged.

The revelations came as a feared and elusive senior Al Qaeda leader, Adnan El Shukrijumah, and three other operatives were indicted … Read more : New York subway bomb plot hatched in Pakistan: US.

Maoists kill Chhattisgarh Congress leader’s kin, employee (Second Lead)

RAIPUR – Dozens of Maoists attacked a Congress leader’s house and a police station in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district early Thursday, killing a relative and an employee of the politician. At least four Maoists were also shot dead.

Guerrillas opened fire at Congress leader Avdhesh Singh Gautam’s house and a police station, some 450 km from Raipur, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists kill Chhattisgarh Congress leader’s kin, employee (Second Lead).

Maoists kill Congress leader’s relative in Chattisgarh

RAIPUR – Dozens of Maoists attacked a Congress leader’s house and a police station in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district early Thursday, killing a relative of the politician and his employee, police said. At least four Maoists were also shot dead.

Guerrillas opened fire at Congress leader Avdhesh Singh Gautam’s house and a police station, some 450 km … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maoists kill Congress leader’s relative in Chattisgarh.

Surrendered Filipino captain accused of leading 2 coup attempts says he has no regrets

Surrendered Filipino coup suspect says no regrets

MANILA, Philippines – A rebel soldier who turned himself in to face charges stemming from two coup attempts in the Philippines against the former president said Thursday he had no regrets for his actions.
Marine Capt. Nicanor Faeldon, who was accused of helping lead 300 soldiers in taking over the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Surrendered Filipino captain accused of leading 2 coup attempts says he has no regrets.

LA doctor described as country’s 2nd most prolific prescriber gets 5 years in prison

‘Prolific provider,’ LA doctor gets 5 years

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles physician who investigators call the second most prolific provider of prescription drugs in the country has been sentenced to five years in prison.
Sixty-eight-year-old Carlos Estiandan was sentenced Wednesday.
The Drug Enforcement Administration says Estiandan was second only to Johns Hopkins University in the total … Read : LA doctor described as country’s 2nd most prolific prescriber gets 5 years in prison.

Lawyer for arrested NY woman branded femme fatale says Russia spy case might be resolved soon

NY lawyer: Russian spy case could be resolved soon

NEW YORK – A lawyer for one of 11 people accused of spying for Russia said their case could be resolved as early as Thursday.
Ten people whose U.S. arrests were announced by federal authorities a week ago and an 11th person, who was released on bail by …. Read the original article  : Lawyer for arrested NY woman branded femme fatale says Russia spy case might be resolved soon.

For at least one deported Russian spy couple, kids may not follow them out of US

Kids might not follow deported Russian spy parents

NEW YORK – Their cover blown, 10 Russian spies have given up their lives in the U.S. and headed home, but in at least one case their children probably won’t follow.
A lawyer for Vicky Pelaez said Thursday that the teenage son she had with fellow Russian agent Mikhail …. Original article  : For at least one deported Russian spy couple, kids may not follow them out of US.

Oakland Riots Triggered After Mehserle Verdict

OAKLAND (GaeaTimes.com)- The verdict of the Oscar Grant murder case on Thursday resulted in a riot scenario in Oakland in the evening as hundreds of protesters gathered at the Oakland City Hall and started the demonstrations. The protesters felt that the verdict lacked justice which propelled them to throw bottles and taunt the police …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oakland Riots Triggered After Mehserle Verdict.

Car bombing kills 45 in Pakistan (Second lead)

PESHAWAR – At least 45 people were killed and more than 75 injured Friday in a suicide bombing in north-western Pakistan’s restive tribal region along the Afghan border, a government official said.

The car bomb detonated at the main gate of the office of the civil administrator in the town of Yaka Ghund in the Mohmand … Original source on Gaea Times at : Car bombing kills 45 in Pakistan (Second lead).

Suicide bomber on motorcycle kills 48, wounds around 80 in Pakistani tribal area

Motorcycle bomber kills at least 48 in Pakistan

KHAR, Pakistan – A suicide bomber on a motorcycle struck outside a government office Friday in a tribal region where Pakistan’s army has fought the Taliban, killing at least 48 people and wounding around 80, officials said.
The attack indicated that militants remain a potent force in Pakistan’s tribal …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Suicide bomber on motorcycle kills 48, wounds around 80 in Pakistani tribal area.

A spy swap I knew and loved: US reporter Daniloff’s harrowing arrest and release in 1986

A spy swap I knew and loved
WASHINGTON – I jammed the accelerator of the black Mercedes to the floor, weaving from lane to lane northward along the embankment of Moscow’s Yauza River. It felt like the harrowing, big city auto chase in that “French Connection” movie.

I and my NBC television camera crew had just learned …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A spy swap I knew and loved: US reporter Daniloff’s harrowing arrest and release in 1986.

Russian secret agents getting new life in swap that also frees 4 convicted of helping West

Freed Russian agents getting new life in spy swap

WASHINGTON – Their U.S. ring dismantled, 10 Russian secret agents are on their way to a new life under Moscow’s wing in a swiftly brokered trade also freeing four men imprisoned for spying at the highest levels for the West.
Both countries won admissions of crimes from the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Russian secret agents getting new life in swap that also frees 4 convicted of helping West.

Australia says Google broke privacy law by collecting private data while mapping streets

Australia: Google Street View broke privacy law

SYDNEY – Google broke Australia’s privacy law when it collected private information from wireless networks, the country’s privacy commissioner said Friday, following an investigation into the Internet giant’s “Street View” mapping service.
Several other countries are investigating Google over the data collection, and there are growing concerns from regulators and … Original article on : Australia says Google broke privacy law by collecting private data while mapping streets.

Suicide bomber on motorcycle kills 40, wounds nearly 100 in Pakistani tribal area

Motorcycle bomber kills at least 40 in Pakistan

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – A government official says a suicide bomber on a motorcycle has killed at least 40 people in a tribal region where Pakistan’s army has fought the Taliban. Dozens more were wounded.
Assistant political agent Rasool Khan says dozens of shops were damaged or destroyed in the … Read more : Suicide bomber on motorcycle kills 40, wounds nearly 100 in Pakistani tribal area.

Australia delays proposed mandatory Internet filter; 3 ISPs agree to block child porn

Australia delays Internet filter to review content

ADELAIDE, Australia – Australia’s widely criticized proposal to mandate a filter blocking child pornography and other objectionable Internet content has been delayed at least a year so the government can review what content should be restricted.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy said Friday a 12-month review would begin this year into …. Original article  : Australia delays proposed mandatory Internet filter; 3 ISPs agree to block child porn.

Authorities: As officials searched, missing SC boy likely buried in concrete all along

Missing SC boy buried in concrete; dad arrested

MONCKS CORNER, S.C. – As the fruitless search was on for a missing 2-year-old boy with an infectious smile, authorities believe that all along he was buried under 400 pounds of concrete in a trash can.
The boy’s father and his girlfriend were arrested Thursday, two days after the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Authorities: As officials searched, missing SC boy likely buried in concrete all along.

17 die in Pakistan suicide attack, prisoners flee jail

ISLAMABAD – At least 17 people were killed and over 40 injured Friday when a suicide bomber blew himself up outside the civil administrator’s office in a bustling market in restive northwest Pakistan’s Mohmand tribal region. The blast damaged a prison housing Taliban guerrillas.

The blast took place in the tribal region’s Yakaghund tehsil in lower … Read more »»».

Suicide bomber on motorcycle kills 18, wounds nearly 100 in Pakistani tribal area

Motorcycle bomber kills at least 18 in Pakistan

KHAR, Pakistan – A suicide bomber on a motorcycle struck outside a government office in a tribal region where Pakistan’s army has fought the Taliban, killing at least 18 people and wounding nearly 100 others Friday.
The attack indicated that militants remain a potent force in Pakistan’s tribal belt … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Suicide bomber on motorcycle kills 18, wounds nearly 100 in Pakistani tribal area.

NDFB threatens to blow up more trains in northeast

GUWAHATI – The outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) Friday claimed responsibility for the train blast in Assam that killed a five-year-old and threatened to blow up more passenger trains and attack buses as part of their stepped up offensive.

With the scars of the October 2008 serial blasts yet to heal, the NDFB said …. Original article  : NDFB threatens to blow up more trains in northeast.

Naxalites may take to urban terrorism: Stratfor

WASHINGTON – While the Maoist movement in India appears to be fairly contained for now, the rebel group’s leaders and bombmakers could develop the “tradecraft for urban terrorism”, a leading US strategic think tank has warned.

Taking a closer look at India’s Naxalite threat, Stratfor said while “Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has labelled the Naxalite issue …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Naxalites may take to urban terrorism: Stratfor.

Johannes Mehserle Convicted

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Johannes Mehserle was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter yesterday by the Los Angeles Superior Judge Robert Perry who convicted him. Johannes Mehserle was accused of second degree murder for killing Oscar Grant, 22, on January 1, 2009. The police officer shot unarmed Oscar Grant while attempting to subdue him following a …. Original article  : Johannes Mehserle Convicted.

Oakland police make 50 arrests, with more expected during the night

Oakland police make 50 arrests, with more expected

LOS ANGELES – Police have made more than 50 arrests, with more arrests expected as officers try to maintain the peace in downtown Oakland.
Oakland Police Chief Anthony Batts said that officers are “focused on arrests at this point in time.” He expected the number of arrests to double …. Read the original article  : here.

Suicide bombing kills 10 in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 10 people were killed and more than 50 injured Friday in a suicide bombing in north-western Pakistan’s restive tribal region along the Afghan border, security officials said.

The bomber, riding a motorbike, detonated his explosives at the main gate of the office of the civil administrator in the town of Yaka Ghund … Read more >>.

Maoists kill contractor in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A contractor was killed Friday when Maoist guerrillas attacked a road construction camp and damaged equipment in Orissa’s Koraput district.

About 10-12 armed rebels attacked a road construction camp and killed contractor S.S. Chawla near Chikalmari village, some 20 km from the police station at Semiliguda town, Inspector General of Police (Operations) Sanjeev …. Original source  : Maoists kill contractor in Orissa.

Militants open fire in Sopore, curfew continues in Valley

SRINAGAR – Two policemen were injured in two separate attacks by militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Sopore town, while an indefinite curfew continued in Srinagar and other major towns of the Kashmir Valley Friday, officials said.

“Militants fired at the State Bank of India building in Sopore town late Thursday, injuring one policeman. In another incident, …. Source article  : Militants open fire in Sopore, curfew continues in Valley.

3 top Australian Internet providers agree to block child pornography before filter mandated

Australian ISPs agree to block child pornography

MELBOURNE, Australia – Three of Australia’s biggest Internet service providers agreed Friday to voluntarily block child pornography online before the government introduces its mandatory filter, Communications Minister Stephen Conroy said.
Telstra, Optus and Primus will block a list of URLs compiled by the government’s Communications and Media Authority.
But the companies …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 3 top Australian Internet providers agree to block child pornography before filter mandated.

More than 30 cold cases get fresh look in Los Angeles after arrest in ‘Grim Sleeper’ case

New look for cold cases after arrest in LA murders

LOS ANGELES – Investigators believe they have connected “Grim Sleeper” suspect Lonnie Franklin Jr. to 10 murders.
Now they are trying to tie him to dozens more.
More than 30 cold case files dating back to 1984 are getting a new look in light of Franklin’s arrest, Los …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gunmen kill Pakistanis in Afghanistan

KABUL – Unidentified armed men Saturday attacked a civilian vehicle in Afghanistan’s Paktia province, killing two Afghan and 11 Pakistani commuters, an official said.

“The incident took place in Chamkani district,” a spokesman for provincial administration told Xinhua. Three civilians were injured in the attack.
Taliban militants early Saturday carried out a suicide … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gunmen kill Pakistanis in Afghanistan.

Website that posted recording of Mel Gibson’s racist, vulgar rant says more audio to come

Website says Gibson rant audio not the last word

LOS ANGELES – The two-minute clip of Mel Gibson using a racial slur and calling his ex-girlfriend a “whore” during an argument are unlikely to be the last ugly words the public hears from the actor.
RadarOnline.com, the celebrity website that posted the recording Friday, says there’s more … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Website that posted recording of Mel Gibson’s racist, vulgar rant says more audio to come.

British fugitive kills himself in standoff with police after weeklong manhunt

UK fugitive kills himself after police move in

LONDON – A fugitive wanted for murder killed himself after police moved in to arrest him Saturday, ending a weeklong manhunt that had transfixed Britain.
Police in northeastern England said Raoul Thomas Moat, 37, was found alongside a riverbank on Friday. Authorities surrounded him and a six-hour standoff ensued.
The …. Source  : British fugitive kills himself in standoff with police after weeklong manhunt.

17th Australian soldier killed in Afghanistan

SYDNEY – Prime Minister Julia Gillard said Saturday an Australian soldier was killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan, making him the 17th Australian casualty since 2001.

The 23-year-old was killed in Chora valley, Uruzgan province, early Saturday. Another soldier was injured.
Gillard made the announcement while attending a funeral in Darwin of another …. Original source  : 17th Australian soldier killed in Afghanistan.

Spy swap defuses thorny diplomatic problem as US seeks better relations with Russia

Spy swap brings swift end to diplomatic problem
WASHINGTON – With the conclusion of the biggest spy swap since the Cold War, the U.S. has defused a thorny diplomatic problem quickly and cleanly – and avoided damaging recent efforts to improve relations with Russia. And Moscow has escaped further embarrassment over a group of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Spy swap defuses thorny diplomatic problem as US seeks better relations with Russia.

Pakistan suicide attack toll mounts to 100

ISLAMABAD – The toll in Friday’s suicide attack in northwest Pakistan’s Mohmand tribal region has risen to over 100 with more bodies recovered from the debris, a media report said Saturday.

The condition of more than 100 people injured in the blast is critical, Geo News reported.
More bodies were recovered from the debris Saturday, …. Source article  : Pakistan suicide attack toll mounts to 100.

Prosecutors charge 38 people in $20M black market travel scam that used stolen credit cards

Feds charge 38 in black market travel scheme

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Federal prosecutors say 38 people are charged in connection to a nationwide scheme that used thousands of stolen credit card numbers to buy airline tickets that were later sold at deep discounts.
The U.S. attorney is western Missouri says six indictments were unsealed Friday. They … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prosecutors charge 38 people in $20M black market travel scam that used stolen credit cards.

San Diego foster mom convicted of grand theft for hoarding charity toys

San Diego foster mom convicted of grand theft

SAN DIEGO – A San Diego foster mother accused of hoarding thousands of toys donated for needy children has been convicted of grand theft.
Jurors returned a guilty verdict Friday for 75-year-old Virginia Kelly, a former head of the Latino Foster Parents Association. The panel also found true an … Original source on Gaea Times at : San Diego foster mom convicted of grand theft for hoarding charity toys.

Feds indict founder, director of The Hawaii Cannabis Ministry, 13 others

14 Hawaii religious marijuana advocates indicted

HONOLULU – The founder and director of The Hawaii Cannabis Ministry and 13 associates are facing federal marijuana charges.
Federal authorities told a news conference Friday that Roger Christie led a major marijuana growing, processing and distribution ring.
Christie says he uses marijuana as a sacrament. But authorities say neither his ministry …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Feds indict founder, director of The Hawaii Cannabis Ministry, 13 others.

5 men charged with stealing $200,000 worth of TVs in California freight train heist

5 charged in California freight train cargo theft

LOS ANGELES – Five men were indicted Friday on charges of trying to snatch nearly $200,000 worth of 3-D televisions from a freight train in a nighttime heist captured on video by investigators tailing them in the Southern California desert.
The men were arrested June 25 after unloading 45 …. Read the original article  : here.

SC state police won’t file any charges after reviewing jobless Senate candidate’s finances

SC nominee to face no state charge for filing fee

COLUMBIA, S.C. – An unemployed military veteran will face no state charges over the $10,440 filing fee for his successful bid to win South Carolina’s Democratic nomination to run for U.S. Senate, the state’s top police official said Friday.
The State Law Enforcement Division also opted not …. Original article  : SC state police won’t file any charges after reviewing jobless Senate candidate’s finances.

Mexican judge acquits man in precursor drug case linked to $205 million cash seizure

Mexico judge acquits man in cash-seizure drug case

MEXICO CITY – A judge has acquitted a man charged with dealing in precursor drug chemicals and allegedly linked to the bust of a Chinese-Mexican businessman who hid $205 million at his Mexico City mansion.
The ruling represents another blow to years of frustrated efforts to prosecute the case, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

LA-area schools seek movie productions to earn extra bucks as state dollars dry up

Cash-hungry LA schools seek movie shoots on campus

LOS ANGELES – In an era of yawning budget deficits and teacher layoffs, schools in the Los Angeles area are looking at a non-traditional source for some extra cash – Hollywood.
School districts from Lawndale to Glendale are seeking to earn thousands of dollars a day from renting their … Original article on : LA-area schools seek movie productions to earn extra bucks as state dollars dry up.

Prostitution sting yields bonus: seizure of 95 pounds of cocaine in Wash. state

95 pounds of cocaine seized in Wash. state

TACOMA, Wash. – Police officers working on a prostitution sting in Washington state got a bonus bust – nearly 95 pounds of cocaine.
The Tacoma News Tribune reports that officers working on the sting noticed a vehicle blocking a lane of traffic on a street near a truck stop … Read more »».

Betancourt seeks $6.8 million in damages for Colombian hostage ordeal

Betancourt seeks $6.8 million for kidnapping

BOGOTA, Colombia – Former hostage Ingrid Betancourt has asked Colombia’s government to pay her $6.8 million for damages she suffered during six years in rebel captivity.
The request was made public Friday by the government, which expressed surprise and consternation.
Betancourt was kidnapped in February 2002 by leftist guerrillas while campaigning for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Betancourt seeks $6.8 million in damages for Colombian hostage ordeal.

Citing political persecution, owner of Venezuuela’s anti-Chavez TV channel seeks help from OAS

Owner of anti-Chavez TV seeks help from OAS

CARACAS, Venezuela – The president of Venezuela’s only opposition-aligned television channel asked for help from the Organization of American States on Friday, saying he wants its human rights commission to determine if he truly committed a crime in his homeland.
Guillermo Zuloaga, Globovision’s majority owner, was thought to be …. Read the original article  : Citing political persecution, owner of Venezuuela’s anti-Chavez TV channel seeks help from OAS.

Boston federal judge drastically cuts $675K penalty against student in song-sharing case

Boston judge cuts penalty in song-sharing case

BOSTON – A federal judge on Friday drastically trimmed a $675,000 verdict against a Boston University graduate student who was found liable for illegally downloading and sharing 30 songs online, saying the jury damage award against a person who gained no financial benefit from his copyright infringement is “unconstitutionally …. Original source  : Boston federal judge drastically cuts $675K penalty against student in song-sharing case.

Panamanian court drops money laundering charges against former Nicaraguan president

Panama charges dropped against ex-Nicaragua leader

PANAMA CITY – A Panamanian court has dropped money laundering charges against former Nicaraguan President Arnoldo Aleman.
The court has ruled that the case against Aleman violated his right to only be tried for a crime once.
The court argued the charges against Aleman were similar to charges he has faced in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Panamanian court drops money laundering charges against former Nicaraguan president.

Text of Johannes Mehserle’s apology letter in California transit shooting case

Text of apology letter in transit shooting case

Text of Johannes Mehserle’s apology letter written on Sunday, before Thursday’s verdict.
Please try to get this message to the public:
I don’t know what the jury in this case is going to decide, but I hope those who hate me and those who understand that I never intended to … Read more >>>.

11 policemen, district governor killed in Afghanistan

KUNDUZ – A district governor was killed by a roadside bomb in northern Afghanistan where two separate insurgent attacks killed at least 11 policemen, officials said Sunday.

Maalem Aziz, administrative chief of Qaleh Zal district in Kunduz province, was killed Saturday night when his vehicle was struck by a bomb in Pangark area, Mohammad Omar, the … Read more »»».

Family, activists request Maoists to release abducted cop

BHUBANESWAR – The family of a tribal police officer abducted by Maoists from Orissa’s Keonjhar district four days ago as well as social activists Sunday appealed to the rebels to release him.

“He is an innocent man. He has not committed any crime. I appeal to Maoists to release him immediately,” eminent social activist and tribal …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Militants kill six policemen in Afghanistan

KABUL – Six policemen with the Afghan Border Police Force were killed as militants stormed their outpost in Afghanistan’s Kunduz province, the local government said Sunday.

“Armed militants stormed an outpost of border police in Satar Perhi area of Imam Sahib district Saturday night. As a result six police personnel were killed,” Mohammad Ayub Haqyar, …. Source article  : Militants kill six policemen in Afghanistan.

32 militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani forces have killed 32 militants in separate gunbattles in south Waziristan region, while six security personnel also died in the fighting, officials said.

Militants attacked a check-post in Dwa Toi area Saturday morning, injuring 18 security men. Security personnel, backed by helicopter gunships, returned the fire and killed 14 militants, Dawn News … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 32 militants killed in Pakistan.

Militant killed in Jammu and Kashmir

JAMMU – A militant was killed in a gunfight with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district, police said Sunday.

The shootout in Kanot area of Kalakote, about 150 km from here, took place when two militants were sighted late Saturday, a police spokesman said.
“One militant was killed in the gunfight while another managed … Read more »»».

Son of murdered NYC Irish mobster Mickey Spillane has fatal fall from window: police, uncle

Son of NYC mobster Mickey Spillane falls to death

NEW YORK – The son of murdered Irish mobster Mickey Spillane tumbled out the window of his sixth-floor apartment in a fatal fall Saturday, police and his uncle said.
Robert “Bobby” Spillane, an actor who had roles on television’s “Rescue Me” and “Law & Order,” fell from his … Original source on Gaea Times at : Son of murdered NYC Irish mobster Mickey Spillane has fatal fall from window: police, uncle.

Maoists blow up mobile tower control room

BHUBANESWAR – Armed Maoists blew up a mobile tower control room of a private telecom company in Orissa’s Malkangiri district, police said Sunday.

More than 30 rebels of outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist blew up the control room using landmine late Saturday at Nilakamberu village, a senior district police officer told IANS.
Malkangiri, 618 km from … Read more : Maoists blow up mobile tower control room.

10 Al Qaeda men held in Yemen

SANAA – Ten suspected Al Qaida members have been arrested in Yemen for planning suicide attacks on oil facilities in the country, Xinhua reported Sunday.

According ot Yemen’s defence ministry, the security forces have arrested 10 militants in the last four days.
“Two members of the Al Qaida cell had been detained during the security raid … Read : 10 Al Qaeda men held in Yemen.

Oregon city settles with man arrested for using cell phone to record arrest of friend

Ore. city settles suit over recording of arrest

BEAVERTON, Ore. – An Oregon city has agreed to pay $19,000 to settle a federal lawsuit by a man the police arrested for using a cell phone to record the voice of an officer arresting a friend.
Beaverton police Chief Geoff Spalding says it’s unlikely his officers would again …. Source  : Oregon city settles with man arrested for using cell phone to record arrest of friend.

11 Hell’s Angels members indicted in brawl with rival gang at Las Vegas wedding chapel

11 Hell’s Angels members indicted in Vegas brawl

LAS VEGAS – Thirteen men, including 11 members of the Hell’s Angels motorcycle gang, have been indicted in connection with a 2008 brawl with a rival gang at a downtown Las Vegas wedding chapel.
According to the Clark County grand jury indictment returned Friday, the 13 attacked members of …. Source  : 11 Hell’s Angels members indicted in brawl with rival gang at Las Vegas wedding chapel.

Man charged with 1998 murder of 10-year-old Anna Palmer extradited to Utah

Man charged with girl’s murder back in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY – The man charged with the September 1998 murder of a 10-year-old Utah girl has been extradited to Utah.
Matthew John Breck was an Idaho prison inmate in January when prosecutors said DNA evidence linked him to stabbing death of Anna Palmer.
The 31-year-old Breck was returned …. Original source  : Man charged with 1998 murder of 10-year-old Anna Palmer extradited to Utah.

Police: 9-year-old boy accidentally kills 2-year-old brother as he plays with gun in LA home

LA police: Boy accidentally shoots toddler brother

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles police say a 9-year-old boy playing with a loaded gun accidentally shot and killed his 2-year-old brother.
Police said in a statement Saturday that officers and paramedics found the toddler with a bullet wound to the torso after they were called to the boys’ home … Read more »»».

National psych group takes first-ever step in backing CIA detainee abuse claim against doctor

Psychology group backs CIA detainee abuse claim

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Psychologists in the United States have been warned by their professional group not to take part in torturing detainees in U.S. custody.
Now the American Psychological Association has taken the unprecedented step of supporting an attempt to strip the license of a psychologist accused of overseeing the … Read more »».

Seventh lawsuit filed over Ariz. immigration law, first to object to police training materials

Seventh lawsuit filed over Ariz. immigration law

PHOENIX – A seventh challenge to Arizona’s tough new immigration crackdown says training materials designed to teach police officers how to enforce the law give “vague and ill-defined factors” as reasons to question someone’s legal status.
Officers aren’t supposed to use a person’s race to determine whether there’s reasonable suspicion … Read : Seventh lawsuit filed over Ariz. immigration law, first to object to police training materials.

California police fatally shoot 15-year-old suspected of driving a stolen vehicle

Southern Calif. police fatally shoot 15-year-old

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – Police in Southern California say officers shot and killed a 15-year-old suspected of driving a stolen vehicle.
Bakersfield police began pursuing the 2001 Acura around 9:20 p.m. Friday. They say the driver stopped, but then backed into a patrol car after being approached by two officers.
The officers opened …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : California police fatally shoot 15-year-old suspected of driving a stolen vehicle.

NJ man is indicted in hit-and-run death of former ‘American Idol’ contestant from Pa.

NJ man indicted in death of ex-’Idol’ contestant

TOMS RIVER, N.J. – A New Jersey man has been indicted in the hit-and-run death of a former “American Idol” contestant whose angry rejection rant became an Internet sensation.
Ocean County prosecutors say Alexis Cohen was killed in Seaside Heights on July 25, 2009, when she was struck by … Read more >>>.

Maoists open fire at police station

RAIPUR – Maoist rebels Saturday night fired at a police station in a remote pocket of Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region, police said. No casualty has been reported.

“Maoists fired three-four rounds from a distance at Pamer police station in Bijapur district. The rebels fled after the police retaliated,” T.J. Longkumer, inspector general of police of …. Original article  : Maoists open fire at police station.

The one who got away: Missing piece to the US-Russia spy swap puzzle is fate of Cyprus suspect

Spy swap mystery: Cyprus bail jumper who vanished

LARNACA, Cyprus – The United States and Russia swapped 14 spies with precision, but one piece of the puzzle remains: The alleged spy who disappeared after posting bail in Cyprus.
Did he flee on his own? Get away with help from the Russians? Trick local residents into unwittingly aiding … Read more »».

Cuban church officials reveal names of 5 more prisoners Castro’s gov’t has promised to free

Cuban Church announces release of 5 more prisoners

HAVANA, Cuba – Cuban Catholic Church officials have revealed the names of five more political prisoners to be released into exile under a landmark agreement with President Raul Castro’s government.
The men to be freed are among 75 dissidents who were arrested in a broad 2003 crackdown on dissent … Original article on : Cuban church officials reveal names of 5 more prisoners Castro’s gov’t has promised to free.

National psych board takes first-ever step in backing CIA detainee abuse claim against doctor

Psychology board backs CIA detainees abuse claim

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Psychologists in the United States have been warned by their professional group not to take part in torturing detainees in U.S. custody.
Now the American Psychological Association has taken the unprecedented step of supporting an attempt to strip the license of a psychologist accused of overseeing the … Read more >>.

Burqa clad women wielding AK-47s seen in Somalia

LONDON – A group of burqa-clad women wielding AK-47 assault rifles and linked to the Al Qaeda has been seen in Somalia, a media report said Monday.

The female fanatics hid under traditional Muslim dress to be paraded for the first time at an extremist rally in the capital Mogadishu, The Sun reported.
They displayed their … Read more »».

64 dead in Uganda bombings (Second lead)

NAIROBI – Bombings targeting football fans in the Ugandan capital Kampala killed at least 64 people and left 71 others injured, officials said Monday.

Chief of police Kale Kayihura said the radical Islamic al-Shabaab militia in Somalia could be behind the the late Sunday bombings.
“We have been suspecting that these people could be planning something … Read more »»».

Critics argue against US dropping talk of Islamic radicalism, say threat needs to be defined

US should better define, counter Islamic extremism
WASHINGTON – The Obama administration’s recent move to drop references to Islamic radicalism is drawing fire in a new report warning the decision ignores the role religion can play in motivating terrorists.
Several prominent counterterror experts are challenging the administration’s shift in its recently unveiled National … Read more »»».

Blagojevich prosecutors preparing to rest case; what’s been proved about the former governor?

What have prosecutors proved about Blagojevich?
CHICAGO – Federal prosecutors have spent five weeks showing Rod Blagojevich spewed a river of profanity while lavishing money on his wardrobe and ducking his job as governor of Illinois. But will jurors believe he was a racketeer who schemed to sell or trade Barack Obama’s former U.S. … Read : Blagojevich prosecutors preparing to rest case; what’s been proved about the former governor?.

Blagojevich prosecutors preparing to rest case; what’s been proven about the former governor?

What have prosecutors proven about Blagojevich?
CHICAGO – Federal prosecutors have spent five weeks showing Rod Blagojevich spewed a river of profanity while lavishing money on his wardrobe and ducking his job as governor of Illinois. But will jurors believe he was a racketeer who schemed to sell or trade Barack Obama’s former U.S. …. Read the original article  : Blagojevich prosecutors preparing to rest case; what’s been proven about the former governor?.

Maoists abduct 11 in Bihar

PATNA – More than 200 armed Maoists raided a Bihar village and abducted 11 villagers on suspicion of being police informers, police said Monday.

The guerrillas swooped on Kaimur district’s Launda village, about 150 km from here, late Sunday and abducted the villagers at gunpoint for allegedly helping police against them.
“More than 200 armed Maoists … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maoists abduct 11 in Bihar.

Americans among those killed in Uganda attacks: US

WASHINGTON – The US has condemned the terrorist attacks in Uganda during the World Cup final Sunday and noted that Americans may have been among those killed or injured.

At least 50 people died in bombings targeting people watching the World Cup at a restaurant and a rugby club in Ugandan capital Kampala, according to local … Read more »»».

12 Colombian rebels killed

Bogota, July 12 (IANS/EFE) Twelve leftist guerrillas have been killed in fighting with security forces in central Colombia, an official said.

The rebels belonged to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The fighting took place in Tolima province Sunday, said Gen. Freddy Padilla, armed forces chief. The rebels were responsible for the security of … Read more : 12 Colombian rebels killed.

50 dead in bombings in Uganda

NAIROBI – Two bombings in the Ugandan capital of Kampala left at least 50 people dead late Sunday, local media reported.

The Kyadondo Rugby Club was hosting a crowd of football fans who had gathered to watch the World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands when the bomb went off there. The Daily Monitor newspaper … Original source on Gaea Times at : 50 dead in bombings in Uganda.

Ex-hostage Betancourt says she won’t sue Colombia’s gov’t for damages over her hostage ordeal

Betancourt says she won’t sue Colombia government

BOGOTA, Colombia – Former hostage Ingrid Betancourt says that despite seeking $6.8 million in damages for her more than six years in jungle captivity, she has no intention of suing Colombia for the money.
However, Betancourt also accuses the government of helping to facilitate her kidnapping, saying it stripped her …. Original source  : Ex-hostage Betancourt says she won’t sue Colombia’s gov’t for damages over her hostage ordeal.

33 killed in twin bombings in Uganda

NAIROBI – Two bombings at a restaurant and a rugby club in the Ugandan capital of Kampala left at least 33 people dead late Sunday, local media reported.

The Kyadondo Rugby Club was hosting a crowd of football fans who had gathered to watch the World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands when the bomb …. Source article  : 33 killed in twin bombings in Uganda.

Off-duty officer arrests Oakland man after toddler thrown in front of a moving car

Oakland man arrested after child thrown in traffic

OAKLAND, Calif. – A 21-year-old man Oakland police say threw a toddler in front of a moving car is in custody after being arrested by an off-duty police officer.
Police say the officer saw the man shake the 18-month girl and throw her into oncoming traffic around 5:39 p.m. …. Source  : Off-duty officer arrests Oakland man after toddler thrown in front of a moving car.

Uncle of man shot on Oakland train station platform rejects former officer’s letter of apology

Uncle of shooting victim rejects letter of apology

OAKLAND, Calif. – The uncle of an unarmed man fatally shot by a former transit police officer has harsh words to describe a letter of apology from the officer.
Speaking outside an Oakland church Saturday night, Oscar Grant’s uncle, Cephus Johnson, rejected the letter released Friday, terming it a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Uncle of man shot on Oakland train station platform rejects former officer’s letter of apology.

Mexican marines capture alleged regional drug gang boss during raid on house in Acapulco

Mexican marines grab alleged drug gang lieutenant

MEXICO CITY – Mexico’s navy says marines raided a house in the Pacific resort of Acapulco and captured a suspected regional chief of a drug gang involved in a bloody turf war in the center and south of Mexico.
A statement Sunday from the navy says troops detained Gamaliel Aguirre … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mexican marines capture alleged regional drug gang boss during raid on house in Acapulco.

‘Godfather of rap’ Gil Scott-Heron plays Montreux Jazz Festival

Gil Scott-Heron plays Montreux Jazz Festival

MONTREUX, Switzerland – Gil Scott-Heron, the hard living ‘godfather of rap,’ had a message for his audience at the Montreux Jazz Festival.
“For those of you who bet I would not be here – you lose.”
The poet-singer from Chicago whose angry lyrics about racism, poverty and addiction struck a chord with … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Godfather of rap’ Gil Scott-Heron plays Montreux Jazz Festival.

Families seek answers, a year after desecration found at historic black cemetery near Chicago

Future of Burr Oak Cemetery uncertain 1 year later

CHICAGO – Louella Johnson has spent the last year hoping for answers.
More than a dozen of the Chicago woman’s relatives, including her daughter, mother and grandparents, were buried at Burr Oak Cemetery, a historic black graveyard where a gruesome desecration scandal was discovered last summer.
Bodies were found …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoist attack mastermind linked to top activists: Police (Second Lead, correcting para two)

RAIPUR – Six people were arrested Sunday on charges of being involved in an attack on a Congress leader’s house in Chhattisgarh July 8 that killed two people and the police claimed that the mastermind of the incident had links with top activists like Nandini Sundar, Arundhati Roy, Medha Patkar and Himanshu Kumar.

In a …. Source article  : Maoist attack mastermind linked to top activists: Police (Second Lead, correcting para two).

Maoists attack mastermind linked to top activists: Police

RAIPUR – Six people were arrested Sunday on charges of being involved in an attack on a Congress leader’s house in Chhattisgarh July 8 that killed two people and the police claimed that the mastermind of the incident had links with top activists like Nandini Sundar, Arundhati Roy, Medha Patkar and Himanshu Kumar.

In a … Read : Maoists attack mastermind linked to top activists: Police.

Fighting gangsters: LA police teach Marines tactics to take down Taliban, train Afghan police

LA police teach Marines how to train Afghan police

LOS ANGELES – A tough-talking, muscular Los Angeles police sergeant steadily rattled off tips to a young Marine riding shotgun as they raced in a patrol car to a drug bust: Be aware of your surroundings. Watch people’s body language. Build rapport.
Marine Lt. Andrew Abbott, 23, took [..] Read the original article: here.

Maoist attack mastermind linked to activists: Police

RAIPUR – Six people were arrested Sunday on charges of being involved in an attack on a Congress leader’s house in Chhattisgarh July 8 that killed two people and the police claimed that the mastermind of the incident had links with top activists like Nandini Sundar, Arundhati Roy, Medha Patkar and Himanshu Kumar.

In a …. Source  : Maoist attack mastermind linked to activists: Police.

Unexploded suicide vest found at disco in Uganda, 4 ‘foreigners’ arrested, officials say

Unexploded bomb vest found in Uganda; 4 arrested

KAMPALA, Uganda – Investigators found an unexploded suicide vest with ball bearings in a disco hall in Uganda’s capital, suggesting that militants planned another attack, officials said Tuesday. Four “foreign” suspects were arrested in connection with the find.
The discovery of a suicide vest in a suburb of Kampala … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Unexploded suicide vest found at disco in Uganda, 4 ‘foreigners’ arrested, officials say.

In Maoist-police battle, tribal women bear the brunt

LALGARH – On both sides of the war between Maoists and security forces, it is mostly the men who wield the arms. But it is the tribal women who bear the brunt of the conflict.

With scores of men having been arrested or fleeing their homes to escape capture, tribal women struggle to run families and … Read more >>.

Unexploded suicide vest found at another site in Uganda, official says

Unexploded suicide vest found at Uganda site

KAMPALA, Uganda – Investigators found an unexploded suicide vest in a disco hall in Uganda’s capital, suggesting that al-Shabab militants planned to carry out more attacks, a government official said Tuesday. Officials arrested some suspects, but police would not say how many.
The discovery of a suicide vest in a … Original article on : Unexploded suicide vest found at another site in Uganda, official says.

Court says US should consider giving Guatemalan women asylum because of female murder rate

Guatemalan women could get asylum due to murders

SAN FRANCISCO – Lesly Yajayra Perdomo’s chances of staying in the United States, even though she arrived illegally, increased dramatically because of her novel legal argument.
The Reno, Nev., resident argues that she should be granted political asylum because her native Guatemala is so dangerous to women that she … Original source on Gaea Times at : Court says US should consider giving Guatemalan women asylum because of female murder rate.

News reports says Italian police in blow at Calabrian mob issue hundreds of arrest warrants

Major anti-crime sweep in Italy
ROME – Italian police carried out one of the biggest operations ever against the powerful ‘ndrangheta crime gang, making some 300 arrests and seizing millions of dollars (euros) in property in pre-dawn raids Tuesday, news agencies reported.

The sweep was centered on northern cities where the southern Italy-based gang has been making … Read : News reports says Italian police in blow at Calabrian mob issue hundreds of arrest warrants.

US vows continued pursuit of Roman Polanski, but resolution on misconduct allegations unlikely

US vows continued pursuit of Roman Polanski

LOS ANGELES – The pursuit of Roman Polanski will continue, but only to the extent the director allows it.
Authorities in the United States roundly denounced the decision by the Swiss government to set Polanski free, dealing another twist in a sex case that has spanned three decades and two … Original source on Gaea Times at : US vows continued pursuit of Roman Polanski, but resolution on misconduct allegations unlikely.

Stamos’ attorney denies actor had fling with 17-year-old now accused of conspiring to bilk him

Attorney denies Stamos had fling with 17-year-old

MARQUETTE, Mich. – An attorney for actor John Stamos denies the “Full House” and “ER” star had a romantic fling with a 17-year-old girl who six years later is accused of scheming to bilk him of hundreds of thousands of dollars by threatening to sell compromising photos to the …. Source article  : Stamos’ attorney denies actor had fling with 17-year-old now accused of conspiring to bilk him.

New Mexico gunman shoots girlfriend at manufacturing facility, then kills 2 others and himself

NM gunman shoots girlfriend, kills 2 at plant

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Officers raced past dead and injured bodies in a New Mexico manufacturing plant as they looked for a gunman who had wounded his girlfriend during a confrontation before fatally shooting two of her co-workers then himself.
Three others were wounded during Monday’s rampage at Emcore Corp., …. Original source  : New Mexico gunman shoots girlfriend at manufacturing facility, then kills 2 others and himself.

Blagojevich attorneys to argue for more time to prepare his defense at corruption trial

Blagojevich defense attorneys to argue for delay
CHICAGO – The pace of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trial has taken a lot of people by surprise – including, apparently, his own lawyers.
They are expected to argue before the presiding judge as soon as Tuesday for several extra days to prepare their defense.
As … Read more »».

Afghan official assassinated, another wounded in separate ambushes in eastern province

Afghan official assassinated, 2nd wounded in east

KABUL, Afghanistan – Attackers assassinated a district statistics chief as he returned from morning prayers Tuesday in eastern Afghanistan, an official said, the latest of a wave of Taliban attacks on government workers.
A second official was shot and seriously wounded in another ambush Tuesday, said the spokesman for Logar …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Afghan official assassinated, another wounded in separate ambushes in eastern province.

Unexploded suicide belt found at site of bombing in Uganda, gov’t spokesman says

Unexploded suicide belt found at Uganda blast site

KAMPALA, Uganda – A government spokesman in Uganda says an unexploded suicide belt has been found at one of the two blast sites in the country’s capital.
Explosions tore through crowds at two sites late Sunday as crowds watched the World Cup final. The attacks killed at least 74 … Read more : Unexploded suicide belt found at site of bombing in Uganda, gov’t spokesman says.

UN begins negotiations on a global arms trade treaty aimed at preventing illegal gun transfers

UN starts talks on global arms trade treaty

UNITED NATIONS – The United Nations began negotiations on a legally binding treaty aimed at regulating the global arms trade to help prevent the illegal transfer of guns that kill and injure thousands of people every day.
The General Assembly first voted in December 2006 to work toward a … Read more : UN begins negotiations on a global arms trade treaty aimed at preventing illegal gun transfers.

Five detained in Allahabad blast case

ALLAHABAD – Five people have been detained in connection with the blast here that killed one man and critically injured five, including Uttar Pradesh minister Nand Gopal Gupta, police said Tuesday, a day after the attack.

The five people are believed to be close to a local Samajwadi Party leader, on whose behest the blast could … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Five detained in Allahabad blast case.

Prosecutors file charges against 9 in Calif. train shooting verdict protests in Oakland

9 charged in protests after Calif. train verdict

OAKLAND, Calif. – Prosecutors have filed charges against nine people who were arrested during protests following the verdict for a white former San Francisco Bay area transit officer charged with killing an unarmed black man.
Prosecutor Bob Hartman said on Monday that seven were charged with felonies and two …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Parole board considers minimum sentence for Honolulu man convicted in toddler’s freeway death

HI board mulls sentence in toddler’s freeway death

HONOLULU – A Honolulu man convicted of second-degree murder in the death of a toddler thrown from a freeway overpass has appeared before the parole board for a hearing that will determine his minimum sentence.
Matthew Higa said he didn’t want to speak at Monday’s hearing. But when parole …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Parole board considers minimum sentence for Honolulu man convicted in toddler’s freeway death.

Mich. women sentenced woman gets 9 to 30 years for sex with son she gave up for adoption

Mich. woman gets prison sentence for sex with son

PONTIAC, Mich. – A Detroit-area woman who pleaded guilty to having sex with the biological son she gave up for adoption and later tracked down on the Internet has been sentenced nine years to 30 years in prison.
Thirty-six-year-old Aimee L. Sword of Waterford Township apologized at her … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mich. women sentenced woman gets 9 to 30 years for sex with son she gave up for adoption.

Mich. women sentenced woman gets up to 9 years for sex with son she gave up for adoption

Michigan woman gets 9 years for sex with birth son

PONTIAC, Mich. – A Detroit-area woman who pleaded guilty to having sex with the biological son she gave up for adoption and later tracked down on the Internet has been sentenced to up to nine years in prison.
Thirty-six-year-old Aimee L. Sword of Waterford Township apologized at … Read more : Mich. women sentenced woman gets up to 9 years for sex with son she gave up for adoption.

Lawyers accuse each other of fraud during closing arguments in Dole banana workers case

Both sides allege fraud in Dole pesticide case

LOS ANGELES – Lawyers for Dole Foods and six Nicaraguan plaintiffs suing the company accused each side of fraud Monday in heated closing arguments as a judge ponders whether to dismiss a $2.3 million award to the purported banana workers.
Judge Victoria Chaney threw out a similar case last … Original article on : Lawyers accuse each other of fraud during closing arguments in Dole banana workers case.

LA police: Woman arrested after fatally stabbing 10-year-old daughter, attempting suicide

Calif woman arrested in stabbing death of daughter

LOS ANGELES – A woman was arrested over the weekend on suspicion of murder after Los Angeles police say she stabbed her 10-year-old daughter to death and then tried to commit suicide.
Detectives said Monday that 49-year-old Bong Sook Chavez remains hospitalized in stable condition. She’ll be moved to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India-born sentenced in US terrorism case

WASHINGTON – An Ohio court has sentenced two American cousins, one born in India and the other in Chicago, to prison terms for supporting terrorists in a plot to attack American soldiers overseas.

While India-born Khaleel Ahmed, 29, was sentenced to eight years and four months in prison, his cousin Zubair Ahmed, 31, was sentenced to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India-born sentenced in US terrorism case.

Integrated approach needed to fight Maoists: Raman Singh

NEW DELHI – Maoist-affected states needed an “integrated action plan” to fight left wing rebels, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh said here Wednesday.

“State governments are dealing with the issue in their own way. An integrated action plan should be devised and all of us should be on one common point,” Raman Singh said.
The Chhattisgarh …. Original source  : Integrated approach needed to fight Maoists: Raman Singh.

Deaf inmate seeking exoneration in Texas says print matching sex offender proves his innocence

Deaf inmate says fingerprint proves his innocence

DALLAS – Through a sign-language interpreter at the Dallas County Jail, Stephen Brodie cops to all sorts of crimes save the one that put him behind bars for 10 years: sexual assault of a 5-year-old girl.
He insists he is innocent, and there’s support for his claim.
A fingerprint at the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Deaf inmate seeking exoneration in Texas says print matching sex offender proves his innocence.

Blagojevich prosecutors roll through case in 5 weeks, don’t call some potential key figures

Blagojevich prosecutors done quicker than expected
CHICAGO – Prosecutors at Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trial wheeled three carts crammed with documents into court each day, making it easy to believe estimates that it could take more than two months to present their case to jurors.
Instead, it took them just five weeks despite having dozens of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Blagojevich prosecutors roll through case in 5 weeks, don’t call some potential key figures.

4 police officers could face death penalty in deadly post-Katrina New Orleans shootings

Cops could face death in post-Katrina shootings

NEW ORLEANS – Four police officers are accused of gunning down two unarmed people in the chaotic aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in the latest twist for a corruption-plagued police department that already faces several federal investigations.
The four officers could face the death penalty. They were charged along with two …. Source article  : 4 police officers could face death penalty in deadly post-Katrina New Orleans shootings.

Attorneys for couple accused of plotting to extort John Stamos attack actor’s character

Defense attacks actor Stamos at extortion trial

MARQUETTE, Mich. – Attorneys for a couple accused of plotting to extort $680,000 from John Stamos are trying to get them off the hook by attacking the actor’s character and the FBI’s credibility.
Defense lawyers in the trial of Allison Coss and Scott Sippola have portrayed Stamos as a promiscuous … Read more >>.

Ex-officer faces sentencing after video of NYC clash with cycling activist is posted online

Ex-officer faces sentencing in NYC bicycle clash

NEW YORK – A former police officer convicted of lying about a confrontation with a bike-riding demonstrator – a clash later seen by millions of YouTube viewers – was to be sentenced Wednesday.
Patrick Pogan faced up to four years behind bars but could get probation instead.
Jurors acquitted Pogan, 24, … Read more : Ex-officer faces sentencing after video of NYC clash with cycling activist is posted online.

Maoists have been killing over 500 civilians every year: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) has been killing over 500 civilians every year since 2004 after labelling many of them “police informers”, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said Wednesday.

According to Chidambaram, as long as the “principal left wing extremist organisation was not challenged effectively, it expanded its area of activity, recruited more …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists have been killing over 500 civilians every year: Chidambaram.

Set up unified command in four Maoist hit states: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Wednesday said that Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Orissa and West Bengal should coordinate their anti-Maoist operations and form a Unified Command with a retired major general of the Indian Army as its member.

“The central government acknowledges the primary role and responsibility of the state governments in enforcing law and order [..] Read the original article: here.

Suicide attack near security checkpoint kills Afghan policeman in Kandahar

Suicide attack kills Afghan policeman in Kandahar

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – An Afghan official says a suicide car bomb has exploded near a police checkpoint in the southern city of Kandahar, killing one policeman.
Provincial spokesman Zulmi Ayubi says the attack was at a compound next to one of several new checkpoints set up around Kandahar to try …. Source article  : Suicide attack near security checkpoint kills Afghan policeman in Kandahar.

Terror suspect arrested in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Terror suspect Viqar Ahmed, who is suspected to have links with Pakistan-based terror groups and is allegedly involved in three incidents of firing on policemen, was arrested by Hyderabad Police here Wednesday.

Ahmed was arrested along with another suspect Amjad. The arrests were made in Secunderabad, when the accused were reportedly planning more … Read : Terror suspect arrested in Hyderabad.

Charles Sobhraj Case Verdict Comes Today

KATHMANDU, NEPAL (GaeaTimes.com)- Nepal Supreme Court shall announce it’s verdict on “Bikini Killer” Charles Sobhraj’s case today. Reportedly, Charles Sobhraj is accused of a series of backpacker murders in Asia back in 1970. Charles Sobhraj who is now 65 years old was convicted six years ago for killing a tourist named Connie Joe Bronzich. Charles …. Read the original article  : here.

PM meets chief minister of Maoist affected states

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday met the chief ministers of Maoist affected states to review government policy and discuss strategy to counter one of the greatest internal security threats to India.

Attending the meeting at the prime minister’s 7, Race Course Road residence are the chief ministers of Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Andhra … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PM meets chief minister of Maoist affected states.

Major killed in Jammu and Kashmir, gunfight still on

JAMMU – An Indian Army major was killed and a colonel injured in a fierce gunfight between security forces and a group of terrorists in Mendhar forest area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district. The exchange of fire that started Tuesday night was continuing Wednesday, an official said.

Major Thange, 28, was killed Tuesday night. He …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US general wants Pakistani group labelled terrorists

WASHINGTON – Amid efforts at a political settlement with Afghan Taliban, the new American military commander in Afghanistan is pushing to have top leaders of the Pakistani Haqqani network designated as terrorists, according to the New York Times.

Gen. David H. Petraeus broached the idea of blacklisting the group late last week in discussions with President … Read more >>.

Grandmother held as police investigate ax slaying of Detroit woman, 26, in Highland Park home

Grandmother arrested following ax slaying of woman

HIGHLAND PARK, Mich. – Police in the small Detroit enclave of Highland Park are investigating what a neighbor described as the bloody ax slaying of a 26-year-old Detroit woman in her boyfriend’s home.
Mila Perry’s body was found Monday inside the two-story wood-frame house not long after police arrested a …. Original article  : Grandmother held as police investigate ax slaying of Detroit woman, 26, in Highland Park home.

Malaysian police raid for stolen cars finds hundreds of birds, other protected wildlife

Malaysia raid for stolen cars nets protected birds

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A police raid for stolen vehicles found 42 of them at a warehouse in Malaysia – and hundreds of birds and other protected wildlife.
Celescoriano Razond, an official with the wildlife department, says police officers found some 700 birds and caged leopard cats, albino pygmy … Read more : Malaysian police raid for stolen cars finds hundreds of birds, other protected wildlife.

Clinton urges US Jewish groups to join campaign to release American aid worker held in Cuba

Clinton asks Jewish support to free worker in Cuba

WASHINGTON – Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Tuesday urged Jewish groups to join the campaign to persuade Cuba to release a U.S. government contractor detained on the communist island for seven months without charge.
Clinton told representatives of the American Jewish community that they should add …. Read the original article  : Clinton urges US Jewish groups to join campaign to release American aid worker held in Cuba.

3 charged with drug possession after railroad tanker car found filled with marijuana in LA

3 charged in LA in connection with rail car pot

LOS ANGELES – Three men whose arrests led to the discovery of hundreds of pounds of marijuana in a railroad tanker car have been charged with drug possession in Los Angeles.
The district attorney’s office says 28-year-old Jesse Lopez, 18-year-old Justin Coffey and 19-year-old Kristopher Maldonado were … Original source on Gaea Times at : 3 charged with drug possession after railroad tanker car found filled with marijuana in LA.

Major killed, Col injured in J&K encounter

JAMMU – A major of the Indian Army was killed and a colonel injured in a fierce gun battle between the security forces and a group of four to six terrorists in Mendhar forest area of Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir Tuesday night.

Five other soldiers were injured in the encounter that was continuing till …. Original source  : Major killed, Col injured in J&K encounter.

Albuquerque police outline how victims were shot in rampage through solar plant

Police outline NM shooting spree that left 3 dead

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A gunman storming through his former workplace fired without provocation or warning at his first victim, then moved on in a spree that left three dead and four injured, police said Tuesday.
A day after the shooting that ended with Robert Reza turning the gun … Original source on Gaea Times at : Albuquerque police outline how victims were shot in rampage through solar plant.

5 Afghan health workers kidnapped in Kandahar

5 Afghan health workers kidnapped in Kandahar

KABUL, Afghanistan – The Afghan government says gunmen have kidnapped five health ministry employees in the southern province of Kandahar.
Provincial spokesman Zulmi Ayubi said Thursday that members of the medical team were abducted while returning to Kandahar in a car after visiting a project in Maiwand district. He said … Original article on : 5 Afghan health workers kidnapped in Kandahar.

15 hurt in Pakistan bombing

ISLAMABAD – At least 15 people were injured in a massive bombing that tore through a bus stand in Mingora area of Swat region Thursday, a day when Indian and Pakistani foreign ministers held talks to bridge their trust deficit.

The huge explosion took place at the crowded central bus stand of the city, Geo … Read more : 15 hurt in Pakistan bombing.

Suspected Maoists kill teen in Orissa, torch house

BHUBANESWAR – Suspected Maoists Thursday killed a boy and torched the house of a home guard in Orissa’s Mayurbhanj district, police said.

“A group of about 20-30 suspected rebels dragged 15-year-old Sukanta Murmu from his house at Handibhanga village and later killed him by silting his throat,” a police officer told IANS.
The … Read : Suspected Maoists kill teen in Orissa, torch house.

Blagojevich lawyers seeking permission to play other FBI tapes at corruption trial

Blagojevich lawyers seek permission for more tapes
CHICAGO – Lawyers for ousted Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich are seeking permission from a judge to play more FBI wiretap tapes that jurors haven’t heard.
The attorneys will make their arguments Thursday, following a three-hour hearing a day earlier.
Blagojevich’s lawyers want to play 38 tapes that they say …. Read the original article  : Blagojevich lawyers seeking permission to play other FBI tapes at corruption trial.

Trial of Mich. couple accused of trying to bilk actor John Stamos out of $680,000 winding down

Federal jury expected to get Stamos extortion case

MARQUETTE, Mich. – Federal jurors are preparing to consider whether a small-town Michigan couple tried to swindle actor John Stamos out of $680,000 by falsely claiming to have photos showing the “Full House” and “ER” star using illegal drugs while surrounded by strippers and underage girls.
Attorneys were expected … Original source on Gaea Times at : Trial of Mich. couple accused of trying to bilk actor John Stamos out of $680,000 winding down.

2nd former University of Kansas athletics official expected to admit knowledge of ticket scam

2nd former Kansas athletics official to enter plea

WICHITA, Kan. – A second former University of Kansas athletics official charged in an alleged $1 million ticket-scalping scandal is set to appear in court.
The hearing for Brandon Simmons in federal court in Wichita on Thursday comes a day after a colleague pleaded guilty for his role in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

DEA doesn’t believe Chargers doctor was using meds himself despite numerous prescriptions

DEA: Chargers doctor not suspected of using meds

SAN DIEGO – The Drug Enforcement Administration said Wednesday it doesn’t believe Dr. David Chao of the San Diego Chargers medical staff was using medications himself even though he apparently had written at least 108 drug prescriptions to himself since 2008.
DEA spokeswoman Amy Roderick says the agency is … Read more »».

NY lawyer who helped relay messages from blind Egyptian sheik could get much longer sentence

Government seeks tough sentence against NY lawyer

NEW YORK – A judge was poised to decide whether the government and some fellow judges were right when they said a 70-year-old former civil rights lawyer convicted in a terrorism case received too much leniency when she was sentenced to just over two years in prison.
U.S. District Judge …. Original source  : NY lawyer who helped relay messages from blind Egyptian sheik could get much longer sentence.

Osama bin Laden is alive, says son Omar

LONDON – Omar bin Laden, son of Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, says his father is alive but maintains he doesn’t know his whereabouts.

Omar told The Sun Thursday: “My dad is on the Earth but I don’t know where. He’s still alive. If that sort of person dies, you could never make it a …. Source  : Osama bin Laden is alive, says son Omar.

Back in Iran, ‘abducted’ nuclear scientist becomes new propaganda hero for country’s leaders

‘Abducted’ nuclear scientist returns to Iran

TEHRAN, Iran – Flashing a victory sign, an Iranian nuclear scientist who claims he was abducted and abused by U.S. agents a year ago returned Thursday to his homeland and into the heart of the latest crossfire between Washington and Tehran.
The conflicting accounts about Shahram Amiri – captive or defector …. Source article  : Back in Iran, ‘abducted’ nuclear scientist becomes new propaganda hero for country’s leaders.

Pakistan, India seek to improve relationship strained by Mumbai attacks with high-level talks

Pakistan, India seek to rebuild trust with talks

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and India sought to improve their strained relationship Thursday with high-level talks aimed at rebuilding trust that was fractured by the deadly terrorist attacks that killed 166 people in the Indian city of Mumbai nearly two years ago.
But analysts expected little concrete progress from the … Original article on : Pakistan, India seek to improve relationship strained by Mumbai attacks with high-level talks.

Terrorist killed in Jammu and Kashmir, gun battle continues

JAMMU – The body of a terrorist was recovered from a forest in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, where a gun battle that started two days ago claiming an Indian Army major’s life continues, officials said Thursday.

The body of the terrorist was recovered Thursday morning from the Beri Rakh forests in Mendhar area of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Terrorist killed in Jammu and Kashmir, gun battle continues.

Corinne Peters And Jayne Peters Found Dead

COPPELL (GaeaTimes.com)- 19-year-old Corinne Peters and her mother, the Dallas-area city Mayor Jayne Peters were found dead at their suburban Dallas home in Coppell. The bodies of the two were discovered by the police on Tuesday night. The death of Corinne Peters and Jayne Peters was caused by gunshot wounds that they suffered on … Read more : Corinne Peters And Jayne Peters Found Dead.

Blast damages 100-year-old Pakistani mosque

PESHAWAR – A powerful blast damaged a 100-year-old mosque in Pakistan’s Khyber Agency. There were no casualties, a media report said Thursday.

The explosion took place late Wednesday night in tehsil Landi Kotal of Khyber Agency, causing extensive damage to a part of the mosque and some shrines, Geo TV reported quoting police sources.
No casualty … Original article on : Blast damages 100-year-old Pakistani mosque.

In letter, Swiss cite key reason for refusal to extradite Polanski

In letter, Swiss say they sought Polanski data

LOS ANGELES – In a case of seeming miscommunication, the Swiss government had asked the U.S. Justice Department to release sealed transcripts in the Roman Polanski case just days before a Los Angeles judge was told that the Swiss did not request the information, according to a newly … Read more >>>.

Injured Uttar Pradesh minister to undergo plastic surgery

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh minister Nand Gopal alias Nandi, who continues to be on life support system four days after he was critically injured in a bomb blast, will undergo plastic surgery here for his badly burnt hands Thursday.

The surgery would be performed at the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, where … Read more >>.

Daya Nayak Gets Breathar From SC

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Sub inspector of police Daya Nayak who had been suspended over charges of maintaining links with the underworld can now breathe easy. According to a ruling announced yesterday by the Supreme Court of India Daya Nayak’s apparent links with the underworld could not be proved in court.
In a complaint made to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Daya Nayak Gets Breathar From SC.

Suspected Maoists kill woman in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists shot dead a woman in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said Thursday.

Locals noticed the bullet-ridden body of the victim lying on the road near Dhanshole village in Gopiballavpur, and informed the police.
“The victim was killed by suspected Maoists. The body has been recovered but it is yet to …. Source article  : Suspected Maoists kill woman in West Bengal.

Pakistan `epicentre’ of terror threat: US

WASHINGTON – Faced with five major insurgencies, including the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) responsible for the Mumbai terror attack, Pakistan is the “epicentre” of terrorist threat to the US, according to a senior US official.

“The western part of Pakistan, the lawless areas, are the epicentre of the issues that threaten our country,” US special envoy for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Police: Girl taken from Calif. foster parents by aunts nearly 7 years ago found in Ariz. home

Police: Abducted Calif. girl found in Phoenix home

PHOENIX – A girl abducted by three aunts from her California foster parents nearly seven years ago, when she was an infant, was found Wednesday living in Phoenix, authorities said.
Detectives from the Phoenix Police Department’s missing persons unit, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI located … Read : Police: Girl taken from Calif. foster parents by aunts nearly 7 years ago found in Ariz. home.

Explosion in Pakistani market kills eight

ISLAMABAD – At least eight people were killed and around a dozen injured on Friday when an explosion ripped through a market in Pakistan’s restive tribal region along the Afghan border, a security official said.

The blast took place in Mehbran Kille village in Khyber, one of the seven tribal districts where Pakistani security forces are …. Original source  : Explosion in Pakistani market kills eight.

Suspected Maoist killed in Bengal

JOYBANKI – A suspected Maoist was killed in a gunbattle Friday when security personnel conducted a raid near this village in West Midnapore district in connection with the May 28 Gyaneshwari Express train tragedy, police said.

Security personnel said a few Maoists were either killed or sustained serious bullet injuries in Indraboni forest near Joybanki …. Source  : Suspected Maoist killed in Bengal.

Judge to consider change of venue for DUI trial of man accused of killing Angels pitcher

Change of venue considered in Gallo trial
SANTA ANA, Calif. – A judge is expected to decide whether the trial of a suspected drunken driver accused of killing an Angels pitcher and two others should be moved out of Orange County.

Orange County Superior Court Judge Richard Toohey on Friday will consider the change of venue motion …. Original source  : Judge to consider change of venue for DUI trial of man accused of killing Angels pitcher.

Chhattisgarh opens three counter-insurgency schools

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh, the state worst hit by Maoist violence, Friday announced the opening of three counter-insurgency and anti-terrorism schools to train policemen to take on the left wing rebels.

The three schools have come up at Mana area on outskirts of state capital Raipur, at Rajnandgaon bordering Maharashtra, and Jagdalpur, considered the nerve centre of … Original article on : Chhattisgarh opens three counter-insurgency schools.

Ex-State Department worker, wife face prison for nearly 30 years of stealing secrets for Cuba

Feds: Love of Cuba drove 2 spies who face prison

WASHINGTON – Kendall and Gwendolyn Myers were the kind of spies any intelligence service would want. They did it for love of country, not for money.
According to federal prosecutors, the two stole U.S. secrets and gave them to Cuba for nearly 30 years because of a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ex-State Department worker, wife face prison for nearly 30 years of stealing secrets for Cuba.

Ex-State Department worker, wife face prison sentences Friday for stealing US secrets for Cuba

Ex-State Department worker, wife face sentencing

WASHINGTON – A retired State Department worker faces up to life in prison and his wife a lengthy prison term at their sentencing Friday for spying for Cuba over nearly 30 years.
Walter and Gwendolyn Myers both pleaded guilty in a case in which the couple is said to have stolen … Original article on : Ex-State Department worker, wife face prison sentences Friday for stealing US secrets for Cuba.

Home elevater becomes death trap for elderly Ga. couple stuck inside

Elderly couple dies while trapped in home elevator

ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. – When the elevator in their home got stuck between floors, Sherwood and Caroline Wadsworth found themselves trapped with no way to call for help as temperatures rose into the 90s in the closet-sized lift until they finally died from heat exhaustion.
Autopsies on the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Home elevater becomes death trap for elderly Ga. couple stuck inside.

Official says explosion at market in Pakistani tribal area kills 3, wounds 7

Official: Blast kills 3 in Pakistan tribal area

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – An explosion at a market in an area along the Afghan border killed three people and wounded seven others Friday, a Pakistani official said.
The blast went off in the Khyber, a tribal region whose security is of paramount importance to the U.S. because it is …. Original source  : Official says explosion at market in Pakistani tribal area kills 3, wounds 7.

20 dead, 100 hurt in twin blasts in Iran

TEHRAN – At least 20 were killed and over 100 injured in two explosions that tore through a mosque in Iran’s southeastern city of Zahedan Thursday, media reports said Friday.

“Two explosions in the front of Zahedan’s Grand Mosque have left more than 20 dead and over 100 injured,” Fariborz Rashedi, the head of Sistan-Baluchestan’s emergency …. Read the original article  : here.

Suspected Maoists kill three in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists killed three people, including a worker of West Bengal’s ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), in separate incidents across the state, police said Friday.

The incidents took place Thursday night. Nirmol Soren, zonal committee member of the CPI-M, was shot dead at Nemaipur village near Simlipal in Bankura while local businessman Kartik …. Source  : Suspected Maoists kill three in West Bengal.

Maoists blow up police station in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A group of around 70 Maoists blew up a police station in Orissa’s Nabrangpur district, police said Friday.

The rebels attacked the police station at Kundai village under Raighar block, some 700 km from here, at around 10 p.m. Thursday night when no policemen were inside.
“The rebels blew up the police station …. Read the original article  : Maoists blow up police station in Orissa.

Drug gang rams police vehicles in Mexico, killing 2 officers, rescue worker

3 killed in drug gang attack on police in Mexico

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – Members of a northern Mexico drug gang rammed a car that may have been packed with explosives or inflammable material into two police patrol trucks Thursday in the border city of Ciudad Juarez on Thursday, killing two officers and a medical technician, …. Read the original article  : Drug gang rams police vehicles in Mexico, killing 2 officers, rescue worker.

Theft suspect arrested in Wenatchee after running out of gas

Theft suspect arrested after running out of gas

WENATCHEE, Wash. – Don’t call him Lucky.
Wenatchee police say they arrested a 47-year-old Tacoma man for investigation of first-degree theft after he ran out of gas as he was leaving a store where Native American collectibles were stolen.
Alerted to the thefts by the store owner, police found the … Original article on : Theft suspect arrested in Wenatchee after running out of gas.

Two Maoists lynched in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Two Maoists were lynched by angry villagers in Jharkhand’s Latehar district, police said.

According to the police, five Maoist rebels went to Jalim village of Latehar district late Thursday night and demanded money from the villagers.
The rebels also roughed up some people, which angered the villagers. The villagers started pelting stones and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Two Maoists lynched in Jharkhand.

High-profile case resolved with Goldman Sachs paying $550M to settle SEC fraud charges

Goldman paying $550M to settle civil fraud charges

WASHINGTON – Resolving a high-profile government case linked to the mortgage meltdown, Goldman Sachs & Co. has agreed to pay a record $550 million to settle civil fraud charges that it misled buyers of complex investments.
The Securities and Exchange Commission announced the settlement Thursday with the Wall Street … Original article on : High-profile case resolved with Goldman Sachs paying $550M to settle SEC fraud charges.

Major, two soldiers hurt in Jammu and Kashmir gun battle

JAMMU – A major and two soldiers of the Indian Army were injured in a gun battle between security forces and a group of terrorists that entered its fourth day Friday in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district.

The major, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was injured Friday morning.
The gun fight started Tuesday …. Source  : Major, two soldiers hurt in Jammu and Kashmir gun battle.

LA police seize guns, handcuffs, other items from home of man accused in serial slayings

LA police seize items from alleged killer’s home

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles police have seized hundreds of items from the home and vehicles of the man charged in the “Grim Sleeper” killings, including guns, ammunition and handcuffs, court records show.
Detectives have booked more than 650 items belonging to Lonnie Franklin Jr. into evidence, the Los … Original article on : LA police seize guns, handcuffs, other items from home of man accused in serial slayings.

8 convicted, sentenced in killing of lawyer whose pre-slaying video set off uproar

8 convicted in killing of Guatemalan lawyer

GUATEMALA CITY – A Guatemalan judge has convicted and sentenced eight men to prison for the 2009 killing of a prominent lawyer who accused the country’s president of his murder in a video made before his death.
Public protests erupted after the death and the release of Rodrigo Rosenberg’s video …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 8 convicted, sentenced in killing of lawyer whose pre-slaying video set off uproar.

Report: Federal prosecution of immigrants soared over 2 months in spring

Federal prosecution of immigrants soared in spring

FRESNO, Calif. – Federal prosecutions of immigrants soared to new levels this spring, as the Obama administration continued an aggressive enforcement strategy championed under President George W. Bush, according to a new study released Thursday.
The 4,145 cases referred to federal prosecutors in March and April was the largest number … Read : Report: Federal prosecution of immigrants soared over 2 months in spring.

Hotelier widow death deemed homicide, reversing previous ruling, in twist to sordid case

Hotelier widow death ruled slaying in sordid case

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – A Florida medical examiner has reversed his ruling that the death of a prominent hotelier’s widow was an accident.
Broward County medical examiner Dr. Joshua Perper says he ruled Thursday that 87-year-old Bernice Novack death in 2009 was a homicide. The ruling comes a day …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hotelier widow death deemed homicide, reversing previous ruling, in twist to sordid case.

40 arrested for Iran suicide bombings

BERLIN – Police have arrested 40 suspects over two bombings at a mosque in south-east Iran which killed 27 people and injured over 160, Fars news agency reported Saturday.

Two bombings took place late Thursday at the grand mosque in Zahedan, the capital of Sistan-Beluchistan province. The bombs went off within minutes of each other at [..] Read the original article: here.

Jason Andrews, Amanda Logue Indicted

NEW PORT RICHEY (GaeaTimes.com)- The gay porn actor Jason Andrews, known as Addison in a porn site was arrested last Thursday, July 15, 2010 by US marshal service and the Chattanooga Police Department. The accused is now being held in Hamilton County Jail without a bail and awaiting his verdict from the court. Jason Andrews … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jason Andrews, Amanda Logue Indicted.

18 killed in militant attack in Pakistan

PESHAWAR – Eighteen Shiite Muslims were killed and four injured Saturday when Sunni militants opened fire on a vehicle convoy escorted by security forces in Pakistan’s restive tribal region, officials said.

Gunmen attacked the two minibuses with assault rifles and rocket propelled grenades as the convoy was heading towards Peshawar, the capital of the north-western province …. Read the original article  : here.

CPI-M member killed by Maoists in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Maoists killed a Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) member early Saturday in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said.

A group of 10-12 heavily armed Maoists raided Neguria village and dragged Sayan Pal out of his house and murdered him, an official said.
Maoist rebels are active in West Bengal’s West Midnapore, Purulia and … Read : CPI-M member killed by Maoists in West Bengal.

Two soldiers hurt in Kashmir gun battle

JAMMU – Two soldiers were injured in a gun battle between security forces and a group of terrorists that entered its fifth day Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, army sources said.

After a night-long lull in the Beri Rakh forests in Mendhar, some 230 km from here, the gunfight erupted again Saturday morning. Two …. Original article  : Two soldiers hurt in Kashmir gun battle.

San Diego coroner says its unclear how migrant died after US agents shot him with stun gun

Coroner: Unclear how migrant died in US custody

SAN DIEGO – An autopsy report released Friday says it is unclear how a heart condition and methamphetamine use caused the death of a Mexican immigrant who was shot with a stun gun by a U.S. agent, shedding little new light on an incident that has sparked outrage … Original article on : San Diego coroner says its unclear how migrant died after US agents shot him with stun gun.

Man who kidnapped 5-year-old girl in Phoenix on Christmas Day gets 30-year prison sentence

Man gets prison term for Phoenix girl abduction

PHOENIX – A man who pleaded guilty to kidnapping and molesting a young girl in Phoenix last Christmas Day has been sentenced to 30 years in prison.
Maricopa County prosecutors say 46-year-old Larry Jon Ladwig was sentenced Friday to prison without the possibility of parole plus two lifetime probation …. Original source  : Man who kidnapped 5-year-old girl in Phoenix on Christmas Day gets 30-year prison sentence.

Panel: Top Texas criminal judge accused of turning away death row inmate’s appeal can keep job

Top Texas criminal judge warned but keeps job

SAN ANTONIO – The top criminal judge in Texas was spared her job but still punished Friday by a state panel that reprimanded embattled Judge Sharon Keller for turning away a death-row inmate’s late appeal hours before his 2007 execution.
Keller, the presiding judge of the Texas Court of [..] Read the original article: here.

Texas officer appeals excessive force suspension in racially charged case caught on dash cam

Texas officer appeals excessive force suspension

DALLAS – A white east Texas police officer shown on dashboard camera video slamming a black handcuffed suspect face first onto the hood of a squad car has appealed his two-day unpaid suspension, officials said Friday.
The arrest was the latest incident to spark outrage in racially charged Paris, about 90 …. Original article  : Texas officer appeals excessive force suspension in racially charged case caught on dash cam.

Lawyer: Lohan staying at substance abuse facility as she prepared to go to jail

Lawyer: Lohan staying at substance abuse facility

LOS ANGELES – Lindsay Lohan has moved to a substance abuse facility and signed legal papers hiring celebrity lawyer Robert Shapiro to represent her as she prepares to head to jail for violating probation in a 2007 drug case.
Shapiro, a key figure on O.J. Simpson’s legal “dream team” in …. Original article  : Lawyer: Lohan staying at substance abuse facility as she prepared to go to jail.

Authorities focus on couple who raised abducted Calif girl for 7 years

Police focus on couple who raised abducted girl

NORWALK, Calif. – The tears in Amber Nicklas’ eyes as she realized she would be taken from the only family she ever knew was enough to make Detective Jerry Saba’s stomach churn.
The girl, abducted at age 1 from her foster parents in California seven years ago, was found …. Original article  : Authorities focus on couple who raised abducted Calif girl for 7 years.

Seattle Seahawks linebacker Leroy Hill suspended for season opener by NFL

Seahawks Hill suspended 1 game by NFL
RENTON, Wash. – Seattle Seahawks linebacker Leroy Hill will miss the season opener after being suspended by the NFL on Friday for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.

Hill will miss the Seahawks season opener against San Francisco on Sept. 12. His suspension without pay also includes forfeiting an additional …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Seattle Seahawks linebacker Leroy Hill suspended for season opener by NFL.

Authorities in Los Angeles, Phoenix investigate couple who raised abducted child as their own

Ariz. couple probed in abducted Calif. girl case

NORWALK, Calif. – Detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are working with police in Phoenix to investigate a man and a woman who were raising a girl abducted from California seven years ago.
Detective Jerry Saba said Friday he hopes charges will be filed in the case …. Read the original article  : here.

Texas mayor believed to have killed self, daughter, had financial trouble, grieved for spouse

Texas mayor who killed self had financial troubles

COPPELL, Texas – A Dallas area mayor who authorities believe killed herself and her daughter left a note saying the two were still grieving over the 2008 death of their husband and father from cancer, police said Friday.
“My sweet, sweet Corinne had grown completely inconsolable. She had learned …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Texas mayor believed to have killed self, daughter, had financial trouble, grieved for spouse.

Celebrity lawyer Robert Shapiro agrees to represent Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan hires celebrity lawyer Shapiro

LOS ANGELES – Celebrity lawyer Robert Shapiro said Friday he had agreed to represent Lindsay Lohan, who is headed to jail next week for violating probation in a 2007 drug case.
Shapiro, a key figure on O.J. Simpson’s legal “dream team” in 1995, told The Associated Press he agreed to represent … Original article on : Celebrity lawyer Robert Shapiro agrees to represent Lindsay Lohan.

Feds launch largest Medicare fraud bust, charging 94 in 5 states for $251 million scams

94 charged in Medicare scams totaling $251M
MIAMI – Elderly Russian immigrants lined up to take kickbacks from the backroom of a Brooklyn clinic. Claims flooded in from Miami for HIV treatments that never occurred. One professional patient was named in nearly 4,000 false Medicare claims.
Authorities said busts carried out this week … Original source on Gaea Times at : Feds launch largest Medicare fraud bust, charging 94 in 5 states for $251 million scams.

Police: Pa. teacher faked inoperable brain tumor for years, forged papers to take sick leave

Police: Pa. teacher faked inoperable brain tumor

MIDDLETOWN, Pa. – Police in central Pennsylvania say a middle school teacher lied for years about having an inoperable brain tumor.
Fifty-one-year-old Leslie Herneisey (her-NY-zee) of Middletown is accused of faking documents to take sick leave. She faces 12 counts of forgery.
Police say Herneisey missed work at Middletown Middle School …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

30 Al Qaeda suspects arrested in Yemen

SANA’A – At least 30 people, suspected to be members of terror outfit Al Qaeda were arrested during a security operation in Yemen, a senior minister said.

“Security operations against Al Qaeda resulted in detaining more than 19 suspects in Marib province and 11 others in Hadramout province,” state-run Saba news agency quoted Interior Minister Mutahar … Read more >>>.

Judge rejects Schwarzenegger request to force minimum wage on state workers

Judge rejects Schwarzenegger minimum wage request

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A judge on Friday declined to make the state controller comply with an order by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to pay state workers minimum wage while the state remains without a budget.
Sacramento County Superior Court Judge Patrick Marlette denied the administration’s request for a temporary restraining order that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Judge rejects Schwarzenegger request to force minimum wage on state workers.

Texas mayor who killed self, apparently daughter, was in financial trouble, grieved for spouse

Texas mayor who killed self had financial trouble

COPPELL, Texas – Authorities say a note left by a Dallas area mayor who killed herself and apparently her daughter explains the two still were grieving over the 2008 death of their husband and father.
Coppell Mayor Jayne Peters also had financial troubles. At a Friday afternoon funeral service … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Texas mayor who killed self, apparently daughter, was in financial trouble, grieved for spouse.

Suicide bomber in Iraq kills at least 43, wounds 31 in Sunni district outside Baghdad

Suicide bomber kills at least 43 people in Iraq

BAGHDAD – A suicide bomber targeting army soldiers and members of a government-backed militia lining up to receive their paychecks killed at least 43 people and wounded 46 on Sunday, Iraqi officials said.
Violence has dropped dramatically in Iraq in the past two years, but members of the …. Original source  : Suicide bomber in Iraq kills at least 43, wounds 31 in Sunni district outside Baghdad.

36 killed in Baghdad suicide bombing

BAGHDAD – At least 36 people were killed and 28 injured in a suicide bombing targeting security personnel in southwestern Baghdad on Sunday, a security source said.

The bomber, who was wearing an explosive belt, targeted members of the Sahwa, who were gathered to collect their salaries in the Sunni-dominated area of al-Radwaniya.
The Sahwa, or …. Original source  : 36 killed in Baghdad suicide bombing.

Maoists set five vehicles on fire in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoists set ablaze five vehicles of a construction company in Jharkhand’s steel city of Jamshedpur after the firm refused to pay levy to them, police said Sunday.

The vehicles, including three dumpers and other equipment, were being used for road construction work in Badhuwa village, about 145 km from here. They were set on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoists set five vehicles on fire in Jharkhand.

Maoists blow up two Orissa schools, kill man

BHUBANESWAR – Maoists Sunday blew up two school buildings and killed a villager in separate incidents in Orissa’s Malkangiri district, police said.

The rebels blew up a school building in Bejingiwada village and another in Tentuliguda village using landmines, Superintendent of Police Anirudha Kumar Singh told IANS.
In a separate incident, Maoists killed a man at … Read more : Maoists blow up two Orissa schools, kill man.

Suicide bomber in Iraq kills at least 11 people in Sunni suburb near Baghdad

Suicide bomber kills at least 11 people in Iraq

BAGHDAD – A suicide bomber killed at least 11 people and wounded 31 Sunday in a mostly Sunni district southwest of Baghdad, targeting Iraqi soldiers and members of a government-backed militia, Iraqi officials said.
Violence has dropped dramatically in Iraq in the past two years, but members of …. Original source  : Suicide bomber in Iraq kills at least 11 people in Sunni suburb near Baghdad.

‘Arrested ULFA leader was picked up by Bangladesh police earlier’

DHAKA – Top Indian militant Ranjan Chowdhury of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) had assumed a Muslim name, Masud Chowdhury, in Bangladesh and had been picked up by Bangladesh police six weeks ago, said a media report here Sunday a day after his arrest was announced.

Chowdhury had also married a local girl, a … Original article on : ‘Arrested ULFA leader was picked up by Bangladesh police earlier’.

Sheriff dept. say 2 dead, 4 wounded in Wash. state park shooting

Sheriff: 2 dead, 4 hurt in WA state park shooting

SEATTLE – Gunman opened fire during a party at a state park near Seattle Saturday night, killing two men and wounding four others, authorities said.
Several people were arrested following the bloodshed at Lake Sammamish State Park, about 15 miles east of downtown Seattle, King County Sheriff’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Wash. State Patrol says 2 dead, 5 wounded in state park shooting

Police: 2 dead, 5 hurt in WA state park shooting

SEATTLE – The State Patrol says two people are dead and five others wounded in a shooting in a state park north of Seattle.
KOMO-TV says that two suspected gunmen are in custody following the bloodshed Saturday night at Lake Sammamish State Park.
The patrol says a park …. Read the original article  : Wash. State Patrol says 2 dead, 5 wounded in state park shooting.

Convicted Arizona murderer at center of landmark death penalty decision wants new trial

Man moved off Arizona death row seeks new trial

PHOENIX – A convicted murderer whose death penalty was reduced to life in prison as a result of a landmark court decision is asking for a new trial.
Timothy Ring was at the center of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in 2002 that overturned his death sentence and …. Original article  : Convicted Arizona murderer at center of landmark death penalty decision wants new trial.

Chmura inducted into Packers Hall of Fame despite career tarnished by sex assault allegation

Chmura, Fleming, Koch inducted into Packers Hall

GREEN BAY, Wis. – Mark Chmura was pretty sure this day would never come.
The former Green Bay tight end was inducted into the Packers Hall of Fame on Saturday despite a career that was tarnished by a sexual assault allegation.
A vital cog on the Packers’ two Super Bowl teams … Read more : Chmura inducted into Packers Hall of Fame despite career tarnished by sex assault allegation.

Report: Police detain Paris Hilton in Corsica after finding ’small’ amount of marijuana

Report: Paris Hilton caught with marijuana

PARIS – Paris Hilton was briefly detained in Corsica after sniffer dogs detected a “quite small” quantity of marijuana in her bag, a French newspaper reported Saturday.
Corse Matin newspaper said officers at the airport in Figari found about one gram’s worth of marijuana. Hilton, who was transiting the French Mediterranean … Original source on Gaea Times at : Report: Police detain Paris Hilton in Corsica after finding ’small’ amount of marijuana.

Authorities find belongings, signs of struggle in search for missing Southern Calif. girl

Evidence of abduction found for missing SoCal teen

MORENO VALLEY, Calif. – Deputies and detectives on Saturday searched for a Southern California teen girl missing for a third day, and authorities said evidence points to an abduction.
Personal items belonging to 17-year-old Norma Lopez and signs of a struggle were discovered by investigators in a field the … Read more »».

Report: Police on French island of Corsica detain Paris Hilton after finding marijuana

Paris Hilton caught with marijuana in Corsica

PARIS – A French news report says socialite Paris Hilton was briefly detained in Corsica after a “quite small” quantity of marijuana was found in her bag.
Corse Matin newspaper reported on its Web site that Hilton had been taken in for questioning after sniffer dogs at the airport in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Report: Police on French island of Corsica detain Paris Hilton after finding marijuana.

Police search for 17-year-old Southern Calif. girl believed kidnapped, missing since Thursday

Police fear 17-year-old Calif. girl was kidnapped

MORENO VALLEY, Calif. – Sheriff’s deputies say they fear a 17-year-old Southern California girl who has been missing for two days may have been kidnapped.
Riverside County sheriff’s Sgt. Joe Borja says Norma Lopez never returned home after attending summer school classes Thursday morning at Valley View High School in …. Original article  : Police search for 17-year-old Southern Calif. girl believed kidnapped, missing since Thursday.

Alleged drug kingpin arrested in Puerto Rico after decade-long hunt by federal authorities

Feds nab alleged PR drug lord after 10-year hunt

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Federal authorities arrested a fugitive alleged drug kingpin Saturday after a decade-long chase through the Caribbean marked by his narrow escapes and public taunting that he paid off police to remain free.
Known as the Pablo Escobar of the Caribbean, Jose Figueroa Agosto … Original article on : Alleged drug kingpin arrested in Puerto Rico after decade-long hunt by federal authorities.

Missing Ore. boy’s father believes third party involved in disappearance, cites ‘briefings’

Father of missing Ore. boy: 3rd party involved

PORTLAND, Ore. – The father of a missing 7-year-old Portland boy says he believes a third party was involved along with his estranged wife in the disappearance of the child six weeks ago.
In e-mail answers to questions Friday from Portland reporters, Kaine Horman gave no basis for his [..] Read the original article: here.

Two dead in Stockton shooting that wounded five others, police say

Police: 2 dead in Stockton shooting that wounded 5

STOCKTON, Calif. – Police are investigating an overnight shooting that left two people dead and five wounded in Stockton, Calif.
Officer Pete Smith says police were called to the shooting after 10 p.m. Friday, and they found seven men had been shot.
Two were pronounced dead at the scene … Read more : Two dead in Stockton shooting that wounded five others, police say.

Polanski attends Swiss jazz fest, 1st public appearance since release from house arrest

Director Polanski attends Swiss jazz fest
MONTREUX, Switzerland – Roman Polanski has made his first public appearance since being released this week from house arrest, attending the Montreux Jazz Festival on Saturday to watch his wife perform on stage.

The 76-year-old film director arrived at the Lake Geneva festival Saturday evening in a sport utility vehicle with … Read : Polanski attends Swiss jazz fest, 1st public appearance since release from house arrest.

Montana’s son among 11 Irish athletes arrested on underage drinking charges

11 N. Dame athletes arrested on drinking charges

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The son of former Notre Dame standout Joe Montana was among 11 Fighting Irish athletes arrested on misdemeanor charges of underage drinking at a party Friday night.
A total of 44 people were arrested after city police responded to a call about a fight near …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Montana’s son among 11 Irish athletes arrested on underage drinking charges.

Man with neo-Nazi ties leading heavily armed citizen patrols in AZ desert

Man with neo-Nazi ties leading patrols in AZ
PHOENIX – Minutemen groups, a surge in Border Patrol agents, and a tough new immigration law aren’t enough for a reputed neo-Nazi who’s now leading a militia in the Arizona desert.
Jason “J.T.” Ready is taking matters into his own hands, declaring war on … Read more »».

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.

Study finds Ohio probation system fragmented, too many low-risk inmates churn through prisons

Study finds Ohio probation system fragmented

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio’s probation system is too fragmented and the state cycles too many low-risk offenders serving short sentences through the prison system, a report to be released Monday finds.
The study also says offenders who commit minor drug and property crimes are often supervised for years, while inmates who … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Study finds Ohio probation system fragmented, too many low-risk inmates churn through prisons.

Four killed in Baghdad suicide blast

BAGHDAD – At least four people were killed and 10 injured Monday in a suicide bombing near the Baghdad office of the al-Arabiya satellite television station.

The interior ministry said the suicide bomber had driven a small explosives-laden vehicle into al-Harithiya in western Baghdad where the broadcaster is located.
“The car was searched at one checkpoint … Original source on Gaea Times at : Four killed in Baghdad suicide blast.

Lawyer says ‘Barefoot Bandit’ not interested in selling his story and journey wasn’t planned

‘Barefoot Bandit’ not interested in selling story

SEATTLE – The “Barefoot Bandit” has received movie and book offers but is not interested in telling his story – nor does he want anyone else to do it, his attorney said Sunday.
Colton Harris-Moore, 19, is being held in Seattle on a federal count of interstate transportation of stolen …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lawyer says ‘Barefoot Bandit’ not interested in selling his story and journey wasn’t planned.

Prader Willi Syndrome Patient May Be Arrested

MICHIGAN (GaeaTimes.com)- A 20 year old boy from Michigan has been accused of stealing food from his neighbor’s home and now has an arrest warrant to his name. Matthew Hummel however is no ordinary boy. The youngster is a patient of the Prader Willi Syndrome, the sufferers of which crave for an enormous quantity … Read more >>.

‘ISI had free hand to aid insurgency in India, Afghanistan’

WASHINGTON – For years Pakistan’s spy service ISI was actually aiding the Afghan insurgency with a wing operating against Afghanistan and India having a free hand to do so, according to what is being touted as the “biggest leak in intelligence history”.

Called “The War Logs”, 92,201 secret US military documents spanning six years of the … Read more >>.

Closing arguments to start in 7-week corruption trial of former Ill. Gov. Rod Blagojevich

Closing arguments to start in Blagojevich trial
CHICAGO – Twenty months after Gov. Rod Blagojevich was led out of his house in handcuffs for what prosecutors called a “political crime spree,” attorneys will make their last pitch to jurors during a trial that has been littered with names like Barack … Original source on Gaea Times at : Closing arguments to start in 7-week corruption trial of former Ill. Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

Members of clan suspected in Philippine massacre kill aide to witness, wound 2 other people

Aide to witness to Philippine massacre gunned down

MANILA, Philippines – Members of the clan suspected in one of the worst massacres in Philippine history are believed to be behind the weekend shooting death of an aide for a key witness to the mass killings, officials said Monday.
The attack Sunday appeared to be the latest case …. Read the original article  : here.

Suspected extremist arrested in Punjab

PATIALA – A suspected Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) extremist was arrested from Punjab’s Patiala district Monday, police said.

Pargat Singh is an associate of another KLF extremist Bakshish Singh, who was arrested in the state recently, a police official said. He said interrogation of Pargat was on.
Pargat was staying as paying guest Pushpinder Singh in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Suspected extremist arrested in Punjab.

A look at who’s on trial at Cambodia’s war crimes tribunal, 30 years after the regime’s fall

Who’s on trial at Cambodia’s war crimes tribunal

The former chief of the Khmer Rouge’s main prison and torture facility was convicted Monday of war crimes and crimes against humanity and sentenced to 35 years in prison, ending the first case before a U.N.-backed tribunal since the regime’s fall 30 years ago. Four other former leaders …. Source  : A look at who’s on trial at Cambodia’s war crimes tribunal, 30 years after the regime’s fall.

Khmer Rouge’s chief jailer found guilty of war crimes, will spend 19 years behind bars

Victims: Khmer Rouge jailer’s sentence too light

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – A war crimes tribunal convicted and sentenced the Khmer Rouge’s chief jailer Monday for overseeing the deaths of up to 16,000 people, in the first verdict involving a senior member of the “killing fields” regime that devastated a generation of Cambodians.
Victims and their relatives burst …. Source article  : Khmer Rouge’s chief jailer found guilty of war crimes, will spend 19 years behind bars.

Maoist camp destroyed in 20-hour Jharkhand gunfight

RANCHI – A Maoist camp was destroyed in Jharkhand after a 20-hour gunfight between the security forces and the rebels, police said Monday.

The gun battle started Sunday in the jungle areas bordering Khuti, Seraikela and Kharsawa districts and continued overnight. It ended early Monday, a police officer said.
“It was a 20-hour gunfight. Some … Read more : Maoist camp destroyed in 20-hour Jharkhand gunfight.

White House, CIA lawyers in dark before terrorist videos destroyed; evidence of obstruction?

Key omission in memo to destroy CIA terror tapes

WASHINGTON – When the CIA sent word in 2005 to destroy scores of videos showing waterboarding and other harsh interrogation tactics, there was an unusual omission in the carefully worded memo: the names of two agency lawyers.
Once a CIA lawyer has weighed in on even a routine …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : White House, CIA lawyers in dark before terrorist videos destroyed; evidence of obstruction?.

Cambodian war crimes tribunal opens to hand down 1st verdict for Khmer Rouge’s chief jailer

Cambodia war crimes trial opens to issue verdict

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – A U.N.-backed war crimes tribunal opened Monday to hand down a verdict in the first trial of a senior member of the Khmer Rouge regime that turned Cambodia into a vast killing field three decades ago.
Kaing Guek Eav, also known as Duch, arrived Monday … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cambodian war crimes tribunal opens to hand down 1st verdict for Khmer Rouge’s chief jailer.

Cambodian war crimes tribunal to hand down 1st verdict in trial of Khmer Rouge’s chief jailer

Cambodia’s war crimes tribunal hands down verdict

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – A U.N.-backed war crimes tribunal hands down a verdict Monday in the first trial of a senior member of the Khmer Rouge regime that turned Cambodia into a vast killing field three decades ago.
The defendant, Kaing Guek Eav, better known as Duch, ran the notorious …. Original source  : Cambodian war crimes tribunal to hand down 1st verdict in trial of Khmer Rouge’s chief jailer.

Security forces kill six Maoists in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Six Maoists were killed and a security personnel was seriously injured in a clash in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district early Monday, police said.

The clash began at 3 a.m. in a forest in Goaltore area and was still on, a police officer said, adding that bodies of all the six Maoists have been … Read : Security forces kill six Maoists in West Bengal.

Al Qaeda kills French hostage

Moscow, July 26 (IANS/RIA Novosti) North African wing of Al Qaeda said it killed a French hostage in revenge for failed rescue raid by French and Mauritanian troops, Al Jazeera reported.

A leader of Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb said Michel Germaneau was killed Saturday in a revenge for six militants killed Thursday in the …. Read the original article  : here.

Al Qaeda militants kill six Yemeni soldiers

SANA’A – Suspected Al Qaeda militants attacked a military checkpoint in south-eastern Yemen Sunday, killing six soldiers.

A security source told DPA that the assailants opened fire at soldiers manning the checkpoint in the block S2 area of al-Oqlah in Shabwa province.
Block S2 is an oil exploration field operated by the Austrian company, OMV.
It …. Original article  : Al Qaeda militants kill six Yemeni soldiers.

Mexican prosecutors say prison guards lent inmates guns, let them out to carry out massacre

Mexico: Prison guards let killers out, lent guns

MEXICO CITY – Mexican prosecutors say guards at a prison let inmates out and lent them guns to massacre 17 people at a party, then allowed them to return to their cells.
Sunday’s announcement from the federal attorney general’s office represents a shocking revelation about the July 18 shooting …. Original article  : Mexican prosecutors say prison guards lent inmates guns, let them out to carry out massacre.

Rebuking church, Chilean president rejects sweeping pardons that would free rights offenders

Chile rejects pardons proposed by Catholic Church

SANTIAGO, Chile – Chile’s conservative president rejected a proposal by the Roman Catholic Church for sweeping pardons of elderly and sick prisoners that would have freed military officers convicted of human rights violations during the Pinochet dictatorship.
President Sebastian Pinera announced Sunday that he will only consider case-by-case pardons on …. Source article  : Rebuking church, Chilean president rejects sweeping pardons that would free rights offenders.

US prosecutors drop case against fugitive Filipino doctor accused of bilking military program

US drops fraud case against wanted Filipino doctor

MADISON, Wis. – Federal prosecutors have dropped charges against a doctor from the Philippines who went into hiding after being accused of scamming a military health program out of more than $1 million in the 1990s.
The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Western District of Wisconsin moved to drop … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US prosecutors drop case against fugitive Filipino doctor accused of bilking military program.

3 New Orleans police officers to be arraigned in deadly shootings after Hurricane Katrina

3 to be arraigned in Katrina police shootings

NEW ORLEANS – Three current or former New Orleans police officers will be arraigned on charges they conspired to cover up deadly shootings of unarmed residents after Hurricane Katrina.
Sgt. Arthur Kaufman and retired Sgt. Gerard Dugue, who investigated the shootings, face federal charges including obstruction of justice. The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 3 New Orleans police officers to be arraigned in deadly shootings after Hurricane Katrina.

Former Pakistani spy kidnapped by militants threatens to reveal state secrets

Ex-Pakistani spy held by militants demands help

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Pakistan – A former Pakistani spy kidnapped by militants four months ago in northwestern Pakistan threatened in a video to expose the government’s “weaknesses” unless it frees prisoners to secure his release as demanded by his captors.
Sultan Amir Tarar, also known as Col. Imam, did not …. Source article  : Former Pakistani spy kidnapped by militants threatens to reveal state secrets.

As Rick Pitino extortion trial opens, only thing clear is that no will come out looking good

No one looks good in Rick Pitino extortion trial

The first thing to remember about the trial unfolding this week in Louisville is that Rick Pitino is a witness, not a defendant.
The next thing to remember is that Pitino is no saint, either.
Oh, sure, he looks like one on the University of Louisville website, where he … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : As Rick Pitino extortion trial opens, only thing clear is that no will come out looking good.

India steps up engagement with Myanmar as China looms over military regime

Myanmar’s top military leader in India for talks

NEW DELHI – India welcomed the head of Myanmar’s isolated military government Tuesday despite international criticism, as New Delhi competes to assert its influence in the region.
India’s relationship with Myanmar, considered a pariah in some quarters, has taken on new importance because of concerns over insurgencies and drug …. Original article  : India steps up engagement with Myanmar as China looms over military regime.

Blagojevich defense attorney may risk jail after clash with judge over closing arguments

Blagojevich lawyer irks judge, may risk jail
CHICAGO – Rod Blagojevich’s defense attorney could find himself behind bars even as he works to keep his client out of prison.
Sam Adam Jr. faced that dilemma before presenting his closing arguments in the former Illinois governor’s corruption trial on Tuesday, after he and the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Blagojevich defense attorney may risk jail after clash with judge over closing arguments.

Misty Croslin’s Parents Arrested

PALATKA (GaeaTimes.com)- The case of the missing Florida girl Haleigh Cummings has hogged the limelight once again in relation to a drug related case. The parents of Misty Croslin, who was watching the five-year-old girl that night she disappeared, have been taken into custody on charges of purchasing cocaine as well as parole violations. …. Read the original article  : here.

Neb. town’s council considers suspending law banning hiring, renting to illegal immigrants

Neb. town may halt immigration law to save money

OMAHA, Neb. – Faced with expensive legal challenges, officials in the eastern Nebraska town of Fremont are considering suspending a voter-approved ban on hiring or renting property to illegal immigrants until the lawsuits are resolved.
The City Council narrowly rejected the ban in 2008, prompting supports to gather …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Neb. town’s council considers suspending law banning hiring, renting to illegal immigrants.

Military’s hit list of enemy militants: Reality of Afghanistan conflict or war crime?

Hit list draws fire in wake of leaked US documents

WASHINGTON – When it comes to war, killing the enemy is an accepted fact. Even amid the sensation of the WikiLeaks.org revelations, that stark reality lies at the core of new charges that some American military commando operations may have amounted to war crimes.
Among the thousands … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Military’s hit list of enemy militants: Reality of Afghanistan conflict or war crime?.

Malaysia court fines 12 Muslims for parading cow head in protest against Hindu temple plan

12 Muslims fined for Malaysia Hindu temple protest

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian court fined 12 Muslims on Tuesday and sentenced one of them to a week in prison for illegally protesting the construction of a Hindu temple and parading a severed cow’s head.
The protest last August stoked tensions among Malaysia’s three main ethnic groups … Read more »».

No blank cheques for Pakistan: US

WASHINGTON – Downplaying the WikiLeaks revelations about links between Pakistan’s spy agency and terrorist groups, the United States has said there are no blank cheques for Islamabad and it must do more to eliminate terrorist safe havens.

“We have certainly known about safe havens in Pakistan; we have been concerned about civilian casualties for quite some … Read more »»».

Militants fire at British embassy in Yemen

SANA’A – Suspected Al Qaeda militants opened fire at the British embassy in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa late Monday, and fled the spot immediately, police said.

The gunmen fired a rocket-propelled grenade at the main gate of the British embassy from a vehicle and sped off on the main street in front of the embassy, …. Source  : Militants fire at British embassy in Yemen.

Punish Mumbai attackers to convince India: US to Pakistan

WASHINGTON – As leaks by a whistleblower site laid bare past links between the Pakistani spy agency ISI and terror outfits, the United States asked Islamabad to punish those behind 26/11 Mumbai attacks to convince India it has changed.

“Combating terrorism is an element of our relationship with India; likewise with Pakistan; likewise with Afghanistan,” State … Read more : Punish Mumbai attackers to convince India: US to Pakistan.

Nicaraguan soldiers detain 2 foreigners, investigates possible link to Panama death case

Nicaragua detains 2 foreigners in Panama case

MANAGUA, Nicaragua – The Nicaraguan army detained two foreigners at the border with Costa Rica on Monday, and Panamanian officials said they are investigating whether the couple is linked to the discovery of a dead American woman.
The army said the two foreigners were arrested after they ignored warnings from …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nicaraguan soldiers detain 2 foreigners, investigates possible link to Panama death case.

NJ nurse charged with stealing from emergency room patient who had been severely beaten

NJ nurse charged with stealing from beating victim

ELIZABETH, N.J. – A nurse at a northern New Jersey hospital has been charged with stealing several hundred dollars from an unconscious man who was brought to the hospital emergency room.
The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office on Monday charged 39-year-old Stephan Randolph of Flemington with third-degree theft.
Authorities say Randolph … Read more >>>.

Blagojevich defense attorney clashes with judge over closing arguments, vows to risk jail time

Blagojevich defense attorney clashes with judge
CHICAGO – Rod Blagojevich’s defense attorney clashed with the judge Monday over his planned closing arguments, pledging to go to jail if he is prohibited from telling jurors about witnesses that prosecutors never called.
Hours after prosecutors summed up their case against the disgraced former Illinois governor, Judge …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Blagojevich defense attorney clashes with judge over closing arguments, vows to risk jail time.

Airport security screener in US Virgin Islands found guilty of jury tampering in drug case

TSA screener in USVI guilty of jury tampering

CHARLOTTE AMALIE, U.S. Virgin Islands – A jury in the U.S. Virgin Islands has convicted an airport security screener of jury tampering in a drug trafficking trial.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nolan Paige says Transportation Security Administration screener Ikim Blackett, 31, was convicted Monday after two hours of deliberation by …. Read the original article  : Airport security screener in US Virgin Islands found guilty of jury tampering in drug case.

Chattanooga woman sentenced to prison for faking breast cancer to get sick leave, donations

Woman sentenced to prison for faking breast cancer

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – A judge sentenced a Chattanooga woman to 42 months in prison for faking breast cancer and told her it was “reprehensible” that she took donations of sick leave, money and cancer patient support services for five years.
“It seems like to me some confinement is necessary,” [..] Read the original article: here.

Trade commission to bar import of Nvidia technology as patent dispute with Rambus grinds on

Rambus patent battle with Nvidia grinds on

SEATTLE – Chipmaker Rambus Inc. said Monday that The U.S. International Trade Commission plans to stop competitors from bringing products into U.S. that contain its patented technology.
In April, the trade commission decided that Nvidia Corp.’s technology infringes on several of Rambus’ patents.
Rambus had filed a complaint against Nvidia, which …. Read the original article  : Trade commission to bar import of Nvidia technology as patent dispute with Rambus grinds on.

Mexican government sends rights commission inspectors to border ahead of Arizona law

Mexico sends human rights inspectors to border

MEXICO CITY – Mexico’s National Human Rights Commission said Monday it is sending inspectors to U.S. border crossings to monitor deportations that might result if Arizona’s new immigration law goes into effect as planned Thursday.
The law is being challenged by the U.S. government in court, but the federal judge … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mexican government sends rights commission inspectors to border ahead of Arizona law.

Man accused of starving 3 kids tells Texas jury he gave them breakfast and lunch daily

Man tells Texas jury he didn’t starve 3 children

DALLAS – A man accused of keeping three emaciated children locked in the bathroom of a Dallas hotel for as long as nine months told a jury Monday that the starving youngsters refused to eat the meals he prepared for them.
The children were gaunt and filthy when …. Read the original article  : Man accused of starving 3 kids tells Texas jury he gave them breakfast and lunch daily.

Pitino expected to testify in woman’s extortion trial as testimony focuses on night they met

Rick Pitino expected to testify in extortion trial

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Jurors in the trial of a woman accused of extorting University of Louisville coach Rick Pitino are expected to hear testimony from the coach himself.
Jurors have already details of the night Pitino and Karen Cunagin Sypher had a sexual liaison in an Italian restaurant in … Original article on : Pitino expected to testify in woman’s extortion trial as testimony focuses on night they met.

Texas, feds wait their turn after Utah Supreme Court reverses convictions of polygamist leader

Texas, feds wait turns in polygamist leader cases

SALT LAKE CITY – A Utah Supreme Court decision that overturns polygamous church leader Warren Jeffs’ 2007 criminal conviction won’t automatically make him a free man. Even if Utah doesn’t retry him, Texas and federal prosecutors are waiting to move forward with their own cases.
Justices on Tuesday unanimously …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Texas, feds wait their turn after Utah Supreme Court reverses convictions of polygamist leader.

Bus services hit in Orissa for Maoist ‘Martyrs Week’

BHUBANESWAR – Buses and commercial vehicles went off the roads in parts of Orissa as Maoists Wednesday began observing ‘Martyrs’ Week’ in memory of rebel leaders killed by security forces, police said.

“Government and private buses are not running in the interior areas of Malkangiri, Rayagada and Gajapati districts. The operators kept vehicles off the road … Read more >>.

Chhattisgarh tense as Maoist ‘Martyrs Week’ begins

RAIPUR – Security was heightened as a ‘Martyrs’ Week’ called by the Maoists began Wednesday in their Bastar stronghold in Chhattisgarh amid fears of attacks in the region.

“Security has always been in top gear in the entire 40,000 sq km in the Bastar region, but it has been further scaled up in view of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chhattisgarh tense as Maoist ‘Martyrs Week’ begins.

WikiLeaks expose: Pakistan in damage control mode

ISLAMABAD – The stunning WikiLeaks expose that showed the involvement of Pakistan’s ISI in carrying out terror attacks against Indians in Afghanistan has received a mixed reaction here, with an analyst saying that the explosive documents present a “dismal picture of the background war strategies that led to Afghanistan offensive”.

The intelligence leak is being viewed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks expose: Pakistan in damage control mode.

Jurors must decide which portrait of Blagojevich to believe: Naive bumbler or crafty schemer?

Blagojevich’s fate to be in the hands of jurors
CHICAGO – Jurors will go off to deliberate the fate of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich with the image of an immaculately dressed and smiling man with his two daughters sitting nearby in the courtroom, but also with the memory of him cursing in the vilest … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jurors must decide which portrait of Blagojevich to believe: Naive bumbler or crafty schemer?.

APNewsBreak: Hundreds of FBI agents investigated over cheating on test of surveillance rules

APNewsBreak: FBI scrutinized over test cheating

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department is investigating whether hundreds of FBI agents cheated on a test of new rules allowing the bureau to conduct surveillance and open cases without evidence that a crime has been committed.
In some instances, agents took the open-book test together, violating rules that they take it …. Original source  : APNewsBreak: Hundreds of FBI agents investigated over cheating on test of surveillance rules.

FBI defends its surveillance guidelines as director faces Senate questioning

FBI defends guidelines for domestic surveillance

WASHINGTON – Under fire from civil liberties groups, the FBI is defending domestic surveillance guidelines that critics fear could unfairly target innocent Muslims in terrorism and other criminal investigations.
“It’s quite an invasive data collection system,” said Farhana Khera, executive director of the nonprofit group Muslim Advocates. “It’s based on generalized [..] Read the original article: here.

Sheriff targeted in Justice probe arrested most immigrants deported in federal-local program

Arizona helped deport thousands without new law

WASHINGTON – Without the benefit of their state’s strict new immigration law, officers from a single Arizona county helped deport more than 26,000 immigrants from the U.S. through a federal-local partnership program that has been roundly criticized as fraught with problems.
Statistics obtained by The Associated Press show that the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sheriff targeted in Justice probe arrested most immigrants deported in federal-local program.

SPIN METER: In prospect of a public trial, peril for both veteran chairman and his party

SPIN METER: Warnings for Rangel between the lines
WASHINGTON – House Democratic leaders who promised to “drain the swamp” of corrupt Washington are doing a delicate rhetorical dance around one of their own, 20-term Rep. Charlie Rangel, as he faces a public trial on ethical misdeeds during a high-stakes midterm election.
They can’t pressure the … Original article on : SPIN METER: In prospect of a public trial, peril for both veteran chairman and his party.

GOP Senate front-runner in New Hampshire in tougher-than-expected primary battle

NH GOP Senate front-runner hits a few bumps
CONCORD, N.H. – Kelly Ayotte, the tough former prosecutor and wife of an Iraq war vet, seemed to be on a glide path to the Republican nomination in New Hampshire and perhaps the U.S. Senate.
But GOP rivals have tripped her up and an endorsement from Sarah … Read more »».

Jurors will soon get Blagojevich corruption case, competing images of former Ill. governor

Blagojevich corruption case to go to the jury
CHICAGO – The corruption trial of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich will soon be in the hands of the jury.
After hearing instructions from the judge on Wednesday, jurors will begin deciding the fate of the state’s second governor in a row to be charged with corruption …. Source article  : Jurors will soon get Blagojevich corruption case, competing images of former Ill. governor.

Anna Fermanova: Smuggler or A Teacher?

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — It’s time to bid adieu to Anna Chapman and welcome Anna Fermanova. The Latvian bombshell has been accused of smuggling high-tech night vision scopes from USA to Russia by Federal authorities.

According to the arrest affidavit Fermanova along with others, are charged for “intentionally attempt to export” defense articles listed on the …. Original article  : Anna Fermanova: Smuggler or A Teacher?.

BP says that in Gulf oil spill, the SEC, Justice Department are looking at securities matters

BP says SEC, Justice looking at securities matters

WASHINGTON – BP says the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Justice Department are conducting informal inquiries into securities matters arising from the Gulf oil spill.
BP disclosed the probe Tuesday in a filing with the SEC, marking the latest development in the evolving government investigations following the April …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Roadside bomb kills 25 civilians in Afghanistan

KABUL – A roadside bomb tore through a passenger bus in western Afghanistan Wednesday, killing 25 civilians, a provincial governor said.

At least 20 other civilians were injured in the blast that took place in Bakwa district of Nimroz province, Governor Gholam Dastagir Azaad said.
“Women and children are among those killed but due to …. Read the original article  : Roadside bomb kills 25 civilians in Afghanistan.

Lance Kerwin Sentenced to 5 Years Probation for Theft

LIHUE, HAWAII (GaeaTimes.com) — Lance Kerwin is best known for his portrayal of the title character as James in the hit 70 ’s TV show “James at 15″. In a shocking tun of events he was sentenced to five years probation for a theft charge of second degree.
He was charged with serious allegations of falsifying … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lance Kerwin Sentenced to 5 Years Probation for Theft.

NY mother arrested on DWI charges after her 12-year-old daughter calls 911 from vehicle

Mom charged with DWI after girl calls 911 from car

SOUTHEAST, N.Y. – A woman has been arrested on drunken driving charges in upstate New York after her 12-year-old daughter called 911 while in the vehicle.
State police say 49-year-old Jamie Hicks of Long Island was driving with her two children near Brewster when she was stopped …. Read the original article  : NY mother arrested on DWI charges after her 12-year-old daughter calls 911 from vehicle.

Drexel players indefinitely suspended from basketball team after robbery charges

Drexel players suspended from team after charges

PHILADELPHIA – Drexel University athletic officials indefinitely suspended two basketball players charged in an armed robbery at a fellow student’s apartment last week.
Starting point guard Jamie Harris and backup forward Kevin Phillip turned themselves in to police Monday to face robbery, theft and weapons charges. They were placed on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Drexel players indefinitely suspended from basketball team after robbery charges.

Malaysian prosecutor removed over alleged affair with witness accusing opposition leader

Malaysian prosecutor axed in Anwar’s sodomy trial

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian prosecutor who is speculated to have had an affair with the man who accused opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim of sodomy has been removed from Anwar’s trial in a twist that lawyers warned Wednesday could undermine the prosecution’s integrity.
Attorney-General Abdul Gani Patail was reported … Read more : Malaysian prosecutor removed over alleged affair with witness accusing opposition leader.

Neb. city council suspends voter-approved ban on hiring, renting homes to illegal immigrants

Neb. city council votes to delay immigration law

FREMONT, Neb. – A voter-approved ban on hiring and renting property to illegal immigrants was suspended late Tuesday by the Fremont City Council, less than two days before it was set to take effect in the small Nebraska city.
Council members voted 8-0 to delay an ordinance that is …. Read the original article  : Neb. city council suspends voter-approved ban on hiring, renting homes to illegal immigrants.

Indonesian court sentences a Muslim woman to 3 years in jail for harboring terrorists

Indonesian woman gets 3-years’ jail for terrorism

JAKARTA, Indonesia – An Indonesian court sentenced a Muslim woman to three years in prison Thursday for harboring terrorists, including one of Southeast Asia’s most-wanted men.
Putri Munawaroh was arrested after police raided her house in Central Java, sparking a gunbattle that killed Noordin Top, the alleged head of the … Read more >>.

Karzai: International partners need to do more to target militants outside Afghanistan

Karzai: Target militants outside Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan President Hamid Karzai pushed his international partners on Thursday to take stronger action against terrorist sanctuaries outside of Afghanistan. In a clear reference to havens in Pakistan, Karzai said: “The international community is here to fight terrorism, but there is danger elsewhere and they are not acting.”
Pressure … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Karzai: International partners need to do more to target militants outside Afghanistan.

Charges against suspected Nazi accused of participating in mass murder filed at youth court

Charges against alleged Nazi filed at youth court

BERLIN – A German official says charges against a suspected former Nazi death camp guard have been filed at a youth court because he was still a minor when he allegedly committed the crimes.
Court spokesman Matthias Nordmeyer said Thursday that charges against 88-year-old Samuel Kunz were filed at …. Original article  : Charges against suspected Nazi accused of participating in mass murder filed at youth court.

Gunfire erupts during undercover drug bust, killing 1 officer, 2 suspects in Phoenix

Phoenix shootout leaves 1 officer, 2 suspects dead

PHOENIX – A shooting during an undercover drug operation in Phoenix has left three people dead, including one police officer and two suspects, authorities said.
Two other officers were wounded in the gunbattle Wednesday night, with one in critical condition at a Phoenix hospital and the other in stable …. Original source  : Gunfire erupts during undercover drug bust, killing 1 officer, 2 suspects in Phoenix.

Arizona immigration law ruling throws monkey wrench in other states’ plans to copy law

Immigration ruling could send message to states

PHOENIX – States that had been watching Arizona’s immigration law in hopes of copying it received a rude awakening when a judge put most of the measure on hold and agreed with the Obama administration’s core argument that immigration enforcement is the role of the federal government.
The ruling marked … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Arizona immigration law ruling throws monkey wrench in other states’ plans to copy law.

Louisville coach Pitino to return to stand in extortion trial; to face questions from defense

Extortion suspect’s attorney to question Pitino

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino is used to answering questions from reporters.
On Thursday, Pitino will face questions unlike anything he’s answered at a press conference.
Pitino will retake the stand in the trial of woman accused of demanding millions from him to stay quiet about a sexual liaison … Read more »»».

Pitino to return to stand in extortion trial, will face questions from defense attorney

Pitino to face more questions in extortion case

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino is used to answering questions from reporters.
On Thursday, Pitino faces questions unlike anything he’s answered at a press conference.
Pitino will retake the stand in the trial of woman accused of demanding millions from him to stay quiet about a sexual … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pitino to return to stand in extortion trial, will face questions from defense attorney.

Company lawyer says Somali pirates release Turkish ship months after hijacking off Somalia

Somali pirates release hijacked ship off Somalia

ANKARA, Turkey – A Turkish shipping company’s lawyer says Somali pirates have freed a Turkish ship months after it was hijacked.
Karya company lawyer Nilgun Yamaner told CNN-Turk television the Malta-flagged MV Frigia is sailing to meet a Turkish navy ship that patrols the Gulf of Aden along with ships …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Company lawyer says Somali pirates release Turkish ship months after hijacking off Somalia.

Australian state awards $2.9 million to family of Aborigine who died of heat in prison van

Australia awards compensation for prison van death

PERTH, Australia – The family of an Aboriginal elder who died of heat stroke in a prison van with no air conditioning on a brutally hot day in Australia’s Outback will be given 3.2 million Australian dollars ($2.9 million) in compensation, a state attorney general said Thursday.
Western Australia Attorney … Original article on : Australian state awards $2.9 million to family of Aborigine who died of heat in prison van.

India obsession holds back Pakistan in terror fight: envoy

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s envoy to the US Husain Haqqani has acknowledged that Islamabad’s “preoccupation with India” was a factor that came in the way of its doing more to show its commitment to fighting terror.

“And then, above all, there is a concern that India is not reconciled to our sort of nationhood and statehood. … Read : India obsession holds back Pakistan in terror fight: envoy.

No proof of Sikh militant group base in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian government has denied a report from India that a Sikh militant group has set up a base outside the national capital and that at least four militants were hiding there.

There is no evidence to support a claim by the Punjab Police that the Sikh separatist group Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No proof of Sikh militant group base in Malaysia.

3 undercover Chandler police officers shot in south Phoenix; 1 later dies in hospital

1 police officer killed, 2 wounded in Phoenix

PHOENIX – A gunbattle erupted during an undercover drug operation at a south Phoenix home Wednesday night, killing one police officer and wounding two others, police said.
Two suspects died at the scene, two others are hospitalized with non life-threatening injuries and two more are detained and being questioned, …. Read the original article  : 3 undercover Chandler police officers shot in south Phoenix; 1 later dies in hospital.

Pakistan has to do more in fighting terror: US

WASHINGTON – Endorsing British Prime Minister David Cameron’s call to Pakistan to stop “exporting” terror, the US says Pakistan has made a strategic shift in the fight against terror, but more has to be done.

“Well, we don’t want to see the export of terror by any country,” State Department spokesman Phillip Crowley said Wednesday when …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan has to do more in fighting terror: US.

3 officers shot, wounded in suburban Phoenix during undercover operation; 1 suspect killed

3 officers shot, wounded in Ariz.; suspect killed

PHOENIX – Authorities say three police officers have been shot and wounded, and one suspect killed, during an undercover operation in suburban Phoenix.
At least one of the Chandler officers is reported to be seriously injured.
Investigators say one suspect died at the scene. Police have blocked off the area … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 3 officers shot, wounded in suburban Phoenix during undercover operation; 1 suspect killed.

3 officers shot, wounded in suburban Phoenix; search under way for gunman who fled scene

3 officers shot, wounded in suburban Phoenix

PHOENIX – Authorities say three police officers have been shot and wounded during an undercover operation in suburban Phoenix.
Investigators say they’re searching for a gunman who fled the scene Wednesday evening.
Few details have been released, but video from television news helicopters showed the three Chandler police officers being taken [..] Read the original article: here.

Former government official arrested as corruption crackdown expands southern China

Gang members arrested in China corruption case

BEIJING – A sprawling crackdown on gangland corruption in one of China’s biggest cities intensified with the arrest of a former deputy of Chongqing’s legislative body.
Wang Neng, 48, a former deputy to the Chongqing Municipal People’s Congress, was arrested for organizing a gang, assault, possession of guns and extortion, …. Original article  : Former government official arrested as corruption crackdown expands southern China.

Friends, family mourn for Lorenzen Wright as police investigate discovery of body near Memphis

Family, friends mourn for former NBA player Wright

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Relatives and friends of Lorenzen Wright gathered Wednesday and grieved for the former NBA player who has been missing for 10 days, as police investigated the discovery of a man’s body outside of Memphis.
Wright’s uncle, Curtis Wright, told The Associated Press that police called the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Friends, family mourn for Lorenzen Wright as police investigate discovery of body near Memphis.

Mexican police: Suspected cartel lieutenant with reward on head captured in Chihuahua

Police capture drug lieutenant in northern Mexico

TIJUANA, Mexico – A suspected drug cartel lieutenant with a quarter-million-dollar reward on his head was captured in the border state of Chihuahua, where rival gangs are waging a bloody turf war, police said Wednesday.
Rogelio Segovia Hernandez, who reputedly helped lead the La Linea gang that worked for the … Read : Mexican police: Suspected cartel lieutenant with reward on head captured in Chihuahua.

Friends grieve for Lorenzen Wright as police investigate discovery of man’s body near Memphis

Family, friends grieve for former NBA star Wright

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Relatives and friends of Lorenzen Wright gathered Wednesday and grieved for the former NBA player who has been missing for 10 days, as police investigated the discovery of a man’s body outside of Memphis.
Wright’s uncle, Curtis Wright, told The Associated Press that police called the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Friends grieve for Lorenzen Wright as police investigate discovery of man’s body near Memphis.

Thailand hasn’t fully investigated 2 journalists’ deaths during protests, press group says

Thai probe of journalist deaths called inadequate

BANGKOK – Thailand’s government has failed to properly investigate the shooting deaths of two journalists killed while they covered recent political violence, and the perpetrators of those attacks should be brought to justice, a press freedom group said Thursday.
The Committee to Protect Journalists concluded in a seven-page report that …. Source  : Thailand hasn’t fully investigated 2 journalists’ deaths during protests, press group says.

We’ll punish WikiLeaks informers: Taliban

LONDON – The Taliban in Afghanistan has threatened to behead informers who have been revealed following the explosive disclosure by WikiLeaks.

WikiLeaks has put out over 90,000 uncensored intelligence documents, causing a security scare. Countries which have their forces fighting in Afghanistan are pouring over the documents to see the extent of the damage.
The … Original article on : We’ll punish WikiLeaks informers: Taliban.

British death penalty author rejects plea bargain in Singapore contempt case, could face jail

UK author vows to fight Singapore contempt charge

SINGAPORE – A British author vowed Friday to fight charges in Singapore related to his book on the city-state’s death penalty policy, even if it lands him in jail.
Alan Shadrake, 75, said he rejected a plea bargain from the attorney general’s office to drop a contempt of court …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : British death penalty author rejects plea bargain in Singapore contempt case, could face jail.

Aide: Pitino gave him $3,000 for woman now accused of trying to extort millions from coach

Aide: Pitino gave him $3,000 for pregnant woman

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A longtime aide to Rick Pitino told jurors that the Louisville men’s basketball coach asked him to give $3,000 to a woman who said the coach got her pregnant in a one-night fling at a restaurant.
The woman, Karen Cunagin Sypher, is on trial, accused of …. Source article  : Aide: Pitino gave him $3,000 for woman now accused of trying to extort millions from coach.

Person familiar with situation: Former Oregon QB Masoli invited to visit Ole Miss this weekend

AP source: Masoli invited to Ole Miss this weekend

Mississippi coach Houston Nutt has invited former Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli to visit the school this weekend, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press on Friday.
Masoli is expected to decide by Friday morning whether he’ll visit Oxford. The person spoke to The Associated Press … Read more : Person familiar with situation: Former Oregon QB Masoli invited to visit Ole Miss this weekend.

Arizona sheriff forges ahead with aggressive immigration sweeps even after court ruling

Arizona sheriff not relenting after court ruling

PHOENIX – Lost in the hoopla over Arizona’s immigration law is the fact that state and local authorities for years have been doing their own aggressive crackdowns in the busiest illegal gateway into the country.
Nowhere in the U.S. is local enforcement more present than in metropolitan Phoenix, where Maricopa … Read : Arizona sheriff forges ahead with aggressive immigration sweeps even after court ruling.

Slogans, songs in Bihar jails to remember Charu Mazumdar

PATNA – Hundreds of jailed Maoists and activists of the Communist Party of India-Marxist Leninist (CPI-ML) Friday remembered their icon and Communist revolutionary Charu Mazumdar in different jails across Bihar, police said.

Mazumdar, born in Siliguri in West Bengal, was the founding father of the Naxalite movement. He was captured on July 16, 1972 and died …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Slogans, songs in Bihar jails to remember Charu Mazumdar.

Mexican soldiers kill top drug lord, dealing major blow to country’s most powerful cartel

Troops kill senior ‘capo’ of mighty Mexico cartel

MEXICO CITY – Soldiers killed a top leader of the Sinaloa cartel in a raid on his posh hideout, dealing the biggest blow yet to Mexico’s most powerful drug gang since President Felipe Calderon launched a military offensive against organized crime in 2006.
Ignacio “Nacho” Coronel, a reputed founder … Read more : Mexican soldiers kill top drug lord, dealing major blow to country’s most powerful cartel.

Landmine blast kills four CRPF men in Assam

GUWAHATI – At least four paramilitary troopers were killed and about 30 injured in a powerful landmine explosion in Assam Friday, police said. The outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) claimed responsibility for the explosion in the restive northeastern state.

A police spokesperson said militants triggered the remote-controlled landmine when Central Reserve Police Force …. Original source  : Landmine blast kills four CRPF men in Assam.

D. C. Sniper Confesses to Star Trek Actor

WASHINGTON (Gaeatimes.com) — Convicted DC Sniper, Lee Boyd Malvo confesses his crime in front of William Shatner on a program that was to be aired on Cable Channel A&E. He said that during a shooting spree in 2010, his accomplice killed one man for backing out. Malvo also told Shatner that 2 persons planned … Read : D. C. Sniper Confesses to Star Trek Actor.

Malaysia awaits Indian report on Sikh militants

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia is awaiting details from Indian authorities and Interpol on a Sikh militant group that is suspected to have set up base outside the national capital.

Malaysia is working with Interpol and the Indian authorities to check on the activities of Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said Thursday.
The …. Read the original article  : here.

China jails 3 minority Uighurs for running websites deemed politically sensitive

China jails 3 Uighurs for sites deemed sensitive

BEIJING – China has jailed three minority Uighurs who ran websites with content considered politically sensitive by the government, according to a media report and an advocacy group.
Their sentencing last week is the latest move by the Chinese government to rein in dissent following last year’s deadly ethnic … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : China jails 3 minority Uighurs for running websites deemed politically sensitive.

US now says Pakistani support for Taliban ‘in the past’

WASHINGTON – With the storm over WikiLeaks revelations refusing to die down, US officials are at pains to suggest that while some people in Pakistan’s intelligence community had supported the Taliban, that situation is changing.

“That’s been a problem in the past, it’s a problem we’re dealing with, and [it] is changing,” Vice President Joe Biden … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US now says Pakistani support for Taliban ‘in the past’.

Four CRPF troopers killed in Assam blast

GUWAHATI – At least four paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers were killed and 15 injured, four of them critically, in a powerful landmine explosion Friday in Holmari in Assam’s Goalpara district.

Militants, suspected to be from the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), triggered a landmine blast around 8 a.m. when around 20 … Read more : Four CRPF troopers killed in Assam blast.

Defense attorney says B-2 engineer gave China only unclassified information

Attorney: Engineer gave China unclassified info

HONOLULU – The attorney for a former B-2 bomber engineer from Hawaii accused of selling military secrets to China says his client designed a cruise missile part for China but did so based on public information.
David Klein told a federal jury Thursday the exhaust nozzle Noshir Gowadia designed for a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Defense attorney says B-2 engineer gave China only unclassified information.

Al Qaeda forms army of 12,000 fighters in Yemen

SANA’A – The Yemen-based wing of militant outfit Al Qaeda has threatened to “cleanse the land” with a new army of 12,000 fighters.

“We have a good news for the Islamic nation, that an army of 12,000 fighters is being prepared in Aden and Abyan,” Xinhua quoted Mohamed Saied al-Omda, field commander of the Al Qaeda …. Source  : Al Qaeda forms army of 12,000 fighters in Yemen.

US pushes for India-Pakistan dialogue despite ISI-Taliban links

WASHINGTON – The United States says it encourages a dialogue between India and Pakistan despite “revelations” of known links between Pakistani spy agency ISI and the Taliban as it is in the interest of all three nations.

“We are simply encouraging Pakistan and India to pursue a dialogue that we think is fundamentally in the interest … Read more »»».

US Consulate in Mexican border city of Ciudad Juarez temporarily closes for security review

US Consulate in Ciudad Juarez closes for security

MEXICO CITY – The U.S. closed its consulate in the Mexican border city of Ciudad Juarez on Thursday pending a security review, an unexpected decision that comes months after drug gangs killed three people tied to the consulate.
The U.S. Embassy announced the consulate will “remain closed until the … Read more : US Consulate in Mexican border city of Ciudad Juarez temporarily closes for security review.

NY trustee files 3 lawsuits to recover more than $30 million in Madoff family investments

NY suit seeks $30 million in Madoff family money

NEW YORK – The court-appointed trustee seeking to recover billions of dollars lost by jailed financier Bernard Madoff sued three entities Thursday to get back more than $30 million that he said the Madoff family had invested, mostly in oil and gas properties and technology companies.
The three …. Original article  : NY trustee files 3 lawsuits to recover more than $30 million in Madoff family investments.

Top drug lord killed in gunbattle with soldiers in major blow to Mexico’s most powerful cartel

Top Mexican drug lord killed in clash with army

MEXICO CITY – One of the top three leaders of Mexico’s most powerful drug cartel died in a gunfight with soldiers Thursday, ending the long run of a mysterious capo considered a founder of the country’s massive methamphetamine trade.
The death of Ignacio “Nacho” Coronel near the city … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Top drug lord killed in gunbattle with soldiers in major blow to Mexico’s most powerful cartel.

Overflow crowd attends funeral service for slain Southern California teenager

Overflow crowd attends funeral of slain Calif girl

MORENO VALLEY, Calif. – Mourners packed a Southern California church Thursday to say goodbye to Norma Lopez, a 17-year-old girl who was abducted just blocks from her school then killed.
Family members, classmates, police and community members filled St. Christopher Catholic Church in Riverside County, with the overflow crowd …. Source  : Overflow crowd attends funeral service for slain Southern California teenager.

Oregon DA won’t charge Gore over masseuse allegations, says accuser has ‘credibility issues’

Gore will not be charged over masseuse allegations

PORTLAND, Ore. – The case of the Nobel Peace Prize winner and the massage therapist has been closed.
Former Vice President Al Gore was cleared Friday of allegations he groped and assaulted a masseuse in a luxury Portland hotel room in 2006.
A story in a tabloid newspaper led to … Original article on : Oregon DA won’t charge Gore over masseuse allegations, says accuser has ‘credibility issues’.

Pakistan has made a ’strategic shift’, claims US

WASHINGTON – Playing down revelations of Pakistani spy agency ISI’s links with Taliban militants, the United States has again suggested these are “historical links” and Pakistan has now made a “strategic shift” and attacking their safe havens inside its territory.

“It is very, very important to understand that there have been historical links going back … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan has made a ’strategic shift’, claims US.

Chinese activists speak out for jailed Uighur journalist, calling 15-year sentence wrong

Chinese activists speak out for jailed Uighur

BEIJING – Some of China’s most well-known activists are circulating an open letter protesting the 15-year prison term for a Uighur journalist snared in tensions that followed the country’s worst ethnic rioting in decades.
The letter, e-mailed within China and published Friday by the Hong Kong-based Chinese Human Rights Defenders, …. Original article  : Chinese activists speak out for jailed Uighur journalist, calling 15-year sentence wrong.

Federal appeals court sets November hearing to consider Arizona’s appeal of immigration ruling

Arizona appeal of immigration ruling set for Nov.

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal appeals court says it will hold a hearing in November on Arizona’s challenge to a ruling that put the most controversial parts of the state’s immigration law on hold.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco issued a two-page order Friday … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Federal appeals court sets November hearing to consider Arizona’s appeal of immigration ruling.

2 families sue man convicted in 2008 Wis-Mich ambush that killed 3, say he should never profit

Families sue man convicted in Wis.-Mich. shootings

IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. – Relatives of two of the teenagers slain in a 2008 shooting rampage on the Wisconsin-Michigan border say they are suing the convicted killer to make sure he doesn’t profit from the crimes.
Attorney Paul Poulson, who represents the families of 19-year-old Bryan Mort and 18-year-old Anthony …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2 families sue man convicted in 2008 Wis-Mich ambush that killed 3, say he should never profit.

Prosecutor makes surprise claim in case against doctors, boyfriend-lawyer of Anna Nicole

Prosecutor makes new claim in Anna Nicole case

LOS ANGELES – A prosecutor sprang a surprise claim Friday that Anna Nicole Smith was a co-conspirator in the actions that have brought her two doctors and lawyer-boyfriend to trial for over-prescribing and obtaining massive amounts of prescription drugs.
“I think it’s obvious she was part of the conspiracy …. Source article  : Prosecutor makes surprise claim in case against doctors, boyfriend-lawyer of Anna Nicole.

‘Jersey Shore’s’ Snooki charged with disorderly conduct in NJ beach town home to MTV show

Snooki of ‘Jersey Shore’ arrested in NJ beach town

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. – “Jersey Shore” cast member Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi has been arrested in the New Jersey beach town where the MTV show is based.
Seaside Heights Police Chief Thomas Boyd says Polizzi was arrested at around 3:25 p.m. Friday and charged with disorderly conduct after other …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Oregon district attorney says no Gore prosecution over masseuse allegations

Ore. district attorney says no Gore prosecution

PORTLAND, Ore. – Former Vice President Al Gore was cleared Friday of allegations he groped and assaulted a masseuse in a luxury Portland hotel room in 2006, closing a case that could have tarnished the Nobel prize winner’s reputation.
After a four-week investigation that included interviews with Gore, masseuse Molly …. Read the original article  : Oregon district attorney says no Gore prosecution over masseuse allegations.

Mexico’s biggest TV network cancels news program in solidarity with kidnapped reporters

Mexico’s TV channel cancels show after kidnappings

MEXICO CITY – Mexico’s biggest television network canceled a popular news show to protest the kidnapping of four reporters, abductions that media advocates called an escalation of a campaign by drug gangs to control information.
One of the journalists – a reporter for Televisa – was released Thursday, hours before … Read : Mexico’s biggest TV network cancels news program in solidarity with kidnapped reporters.

Detroit Lions president Tom Lewand suspended 30 days, fined $100,000 for impaired driving

Lions president Lewand suspended 30 days, fined

DETROIT – Detroit Lions president Tom Lewand will be suspended for 30 days and fined $100,000 for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy following his guilty plea to driving while impaired, the league announced Friday.
The suspension begins Aug. 25 and Lewand will be permitted back at work Sept. 24. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Detroit Lions president Tom Lewand suspended 30 days, fined $100,000 for impaired driving.

Girl injured falling 40 feet to ground when Wis. amusement park attraction’s safety net fails

12-year-old girl injured on Wis. ‘free fall’ ride

MADISON, Wis. – A 12-year-old girl at an amusement park plunged more than 40 feet to the ground on Friday, seriously injuring herself when a safety net under a “free fall” attraction failed to catch her.
Police declined to identify the girl or to elaborate on her injuries, but … Original source on Gaea Times at : Girl injured falling 40 feet to ground when Wis. amusement park attraction’s safety net fails.

Lawsuit blames NY Mets owners for letting workers put retirement money in Madoff investments

Suit blames Mets owners for Madoff-related losses

NEW YORK – The owners of the New York Mets should be held accountable for letting their workers put more than $16 million in 401(k) assets into accounts controlled by jailed financier Bernard Madoff, a widow said in a lawsuit filed Friday.
The lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Manhattan …. Read the original article  : here.

Ore. prosecutor says Gore won’t be prosecuted over masseuse’s allegations

Ore. prosecutor says no Gore prosecution
PORTLAND, Ore. – Former Vice President Al Gore won’t be prosecuted over allegations by a masseuse that he groped and assaulted her in his Portland hotel room in 2006, the county prosecutor said Friday.

District Attorney Michael Schrunk said the case has numerous problems and isn’t appropriate for a criminal prosecution.
Among …. Source article  : Ore. prosecutor says Gore won’t be prosecuted over masseuse’s allegations.

Ravens WR Stallworth thankful to be on football field after serving time for manslaughter

Stallworth rebuilds life after manslaughter plea

WESTMINSTER, Md. – Donte’ Stallworth formally resumed his football career Friday, taking the field in pads for the first time since “the situation.”
In March 2009, Stallworth was driving in Florida when he hit 59-year-old crane operator Mario Reyes. The dock worker died, and three months later Stallworth pleaded guilty to … Read more : Ravens WR Stallworth thankful to be on football field after serving time for manslaughter.

Dallas-based Wyly brothers, big GOP donors, rose together from rags to riches to SEC lawsuit

Wealthy Dallas brothers become SEC fraud target

AUSTIN, Texas – Brothers Charles and Sam Wyly, born a year apart during the Great Depression, almost always have been joined at the hip.
They were kids when the collapsed economy forced the surrender of the family cotton farm in Lake Providence, La. Later, they starred on the high school … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Dallas-based Wyly brothers, big GOP donors, rose together from rags to riches to SEC lawsuit.

Prosecutors: Anna Nicole Smith conspired with attorney, doctors to illegally obtain drugs

Prosecutors: Smith part of conspiracy to get drugs

LOS ANGELES – In a surprise move, prosecutors in the case of Anna Nicole Smith’s doctors and her lawyer-boyfriend say the former Playboy model conspired with the defendants to illegally obtain massive amounts of prescription drugs.
Deputy District Attorney Renee Rose said Friday that because Smith demanded that others … Read : Prosecutors: Anna Nicole Smith conspired with attorney, doctors to illegally obtain drugs.

Reno man who fled after 1988 rape finally sent to prison after returning to see dying mother

Reno man who fled after ‘88 rape sent to prison

RENO, Nev. – A former Reno man who fled to the Caribbean in 1988 after he was convicted of kidnapping and raping a 15-year-old girl is finally headed to a Nevada prison.
Randy Maurice Bridges said he turned himself in to authorities in Miami in April because … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Reno man who fled after 1988 rape finally sent to prison after returning to see dying mother.

Texas man imprisoned 27 years for rape a free man after DNA tests prove his innocence

Texas man exonerated of rape free after 27 years

HOUSTON – Imprisoned for 27 years for a rape he didn’t commit, Michael Anthony Green walked out of jail a free man on Friday and in the process was able to leave behind some of the anger that had fueled his survival behind bars.
Accompanied by his attorney, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Federal jury begins deliberating case of B-2 engineer accused of selling secrets to China

Jury weighs B-2 engineer’s alleged secret-selling

HONOLULU – A federal jury in Hawaii has started deliberating in the trial of a former B-2 stealth bomber engineer accused of selling military secrets to China.
The jury is meeting Friday in U.S. District Court in Honolulu after hearing testimony over nearly four months in the trial of Noshir Gowadia.
Gowadia [..] Read the original article: here.

White House pleads for end to disclosure of war secrets; accused soldier moved to brig

White House urges halt to spilling of war secrets

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration on Friday implored the website WikiLeaks to stop posting secret Afghanistan war documents, as the Pentagon pressed its investigation of the massive security breach by bringing a soldier under scrutiny back to the U.S. for trial.
Administration officials said the investigation into the … Original article on : White House pleads for end to disclosure of war secrets; accused soldier moved to brig.