Suspect in ‘Grim Sleeper’ serial killings set to enter plea in Los Angeles courtroom

Suspect in ‘Grim Sleeper’ killings to enter plea

LOS ANGELES – A man suspected in the “Grim Sleeper” slayings of 10 women is set to be arraigned in a Los Angeles courtroom.
An attorney for Lonnie Franklin Jr. has said he will plead not guilty Monday to 10 charges of murder and one charge of attempted murder.
Private … Read more »»».

Doctor charged in Michael Jackson’s death due in Los Angeles court for scheduling hearing

Doctor charged in Jackson’s death due in court

LOS ANGELES – The doctor charged in Michael Jackson’s death is due back in court for a scheduling hearing that will determine when prosecutors will publicly present some of their evidence.
Dr. Conrad Murray is required to attend Monday’s hearing, during which a Los Angeles judge is expected to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Doctor charged in Michael Jackson’s death due in Los Angeles court for scheduling hearing.

Inmate convicted of attempted murder escapes from Colorado prison

Inmates escapes from Colorado prison
STERLING, Colo. – Law officers in northeast Colorado are searching for a 48-year-old inmate convicted of attempted murder who escaped from a maximum security prison.

The Colorado Department of Corrections confirmed at 11:20 p.m. MDT Sunday that Douglas J. Alward escaped from the Sterling Correctional Facility, which is located about 100 miles …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Inmate convicted of attempted murder escapes from Colorado prison.

Report: Iran suspends 3 senior judiciary officials allegedly linked to prisoner torture deaths

Iran suspends 3 officials over prison deaths

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran has suspended three senior judiciary officials over their alleged links to the torture and killing of three anti-government protesters in prison.
A report Monday by the independent Tehran-e Emrooz newspaper says the suspensions pave the way for the trial of the three officials. Their names were … Read more >>.

Politics, alleged fraud and controversial museum disturb peace in Jerusalem graveyard

Politics, alleged fraud disturb Jerusalem cemetery

JERUSALEM – A political battle over a Muslim cemetery in Jerusalem that began with charges of insensitivity leveled at plans for a museum of religious tolerance at the site has spread into a more curious fight about whether hundreds of nearby tombstones are even real.
The Mamilla cemetery had its peace …. Original article  : Politics, alleged fraud and controversial museum disturb peace in Jerusalem graveyard.

Police say 3 dead, including gunman, and 4 wounded in shootout in central Virginia

3 dead, 4 wounded in shootout in central Virginia

LOUISA, Va. – Police say three people are dead and four others wounded after a man opened fire at a rural neighborhood in central Virginia.
The gunman was among those killed Sunday afternoon.
Louisa County sheriff’s Maj. Donnie Lowe said the gunman began shooting after a dispute over property …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police say 3 dead, including gunman, and 4 wounded in shootout in central Virginia.

Taliban video game sparks outrage

LONDON – A video game in which the players pretend to be heavily armed Taliban guerrillas has sparked anger, with British Defence Secretary Liam Fox calling for a ban and a security expert stating that “the Afghanistan campaign isn’t a game – it’s happening”.

The video game is the updated version of “Medal Of Honour” that … Original article on : Taliban video game sparks outrage.

Seven Al Qaeda men killed in Yemen

SANA’A – Yemeni security forces killed seven Al Qaeda militants Sunday in a fresh clash in the country’s southern province of Abyan, authorities said.

Yemeni defence ministry said seven Al Qaeda men were killed Sunday in a raid carried out in the militant’s hideout in Lodar city, increasing the death toll of the militants to 12 …. Original source  : Seven Al Qaeda men killed in Yemen.

NY archbishop says he’s saddened by spate of suspected anti-Hispanic attacks blamed on blacks

NY archbishop saddened by suspected bias attacks

NEW YORK – Archbishop Timothy Dolan told parishioners during Mass on Sunday that he was saddened by a spate of suspected anti-Hispanic attacks on Staten Island that has left some Latin American immigrants fearing for their safety.
Dolan made the remarks during a Spanish-language sermon at the Church of St. … Original source on Gaea Times at : NY archbishop says he’s saddened by spate of suspected anti-Hispanic attacks blamed on blacks.

Wash. bride-to-be arrested for DUI after bachelorette party, released hours before wedding

Washington bride-to-be arrested on wedding day

BELLEVUE, Wash. – A 31-year-old bride-to-be heading home from her bachelorette party was arrested for drunk driving hours before she was to get married.
Washington State Patrol Trooper Christina Martin says the woman was driving over 90 mph Saturday morning and weaving in and out of traffic on Interstate 405 in … Original article on : Wash. bride-to-be arrested for DUI after bachelorette party, released hours before wedding.

27 people arrested, at least 5 injured in Arizona shootout involving rival biker gangs

27 arrested in Arizona rival biker shootout

CHINO VALLEY, Ariz. – Arizona authorities say 27 people have been booked on charges ranging from attempted murder to participation in a criminal street gang after shootings involving members of rival motorcycle gangs, the Vagos and Hells Angels.
Detectives estimate at least 50 rounds were fired Saturday during the shootings [..] Read the original article: here.

4 decapitated bodies hung from bridge in Mexican city besieged by drug gang infighting

4 decapitated bodies hung from bridge in Mexico

CUERNAVACA, Mexico – The decapitated bodies of four men were hung from a bridge Sunday in this central Mexican city besieged by fighting between two drug lords.
A gang led by kingpin Hector Beltran Leyva took responsibility for the killings in a message left with the bodies, the attorney … Read : 4 decapitated bodies hung from bridge in Mexican city besieged by drug gang infighting.

Jamaica party seeks probe of who hired firm to lobby US on alleged drug lord’s extradition

Jamaica opposition calls for probe into Coke case

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s opposition called Sunday for an independent investigation into who hired lobbyists to try to persuade the U.S. government to drop its extradition request for alleged drug lord Christopher “Dudus” Coke.
The People’s National Party said in a statement that a commission of inquiry should be … Read : Jamaica party seeks probe of who hired firm to lobby US on alleged drug lord’s extradition.

Soldiers in Guyana will bolster police patrols in high-crime areas after spike in gun violence

Guyana military to help police in high-crime areas

GEORGETOWN, Guyana – Guyana’s military will assist police in patrolling high-crime areas in response to a spike in gun violence.
Col. Bruce Lovell said Sunday that the joint patrols will start in the coming week.
In recent weeks, gangs of armed bandits have committed a slew of robberies along the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Soldiers in Guyana will bolster police patrols in high-crime areas after spike in gun violence.

More than 80 arrested at Love Festival rave party at Los Angeles Sports Arena

More than 80 arrested at Los Angeles rave party

LOS ANGELES – Authorities say more than 80 young people were arrested at a rave party in Los Angeles, most on drugs charges.
Los Angeles Fire Department officials say paramedics treated 16 people for minor injuries at the 18th Annual Love Festival late Saturday and early Sunday and …. Source article  : More than 80 arrested at Love Festival rave party at Los Angeles Sports Arena.

Iraq acknowledges killer of British aid worker escaped from prison 11 months ago

Iraq acknowledges Briton’s killer escaped
BAGHDAD – Iraq’s deputy justice minister acknowledged Sunday that a man convicted of killing a British aid worker in 2004 escaped from prison 11 months ago and that the government only learned of the breakout last month.

The announcement is also embarrassing for the Iraqi government because it comes a month after …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Police: R&B singer Faith Evans arrested in Los Angeles on drunken driving charge

Faith Evans arrested on drunken driving charge

LOS ANGELES – Grammy-winning singer Faith Evans has been arrested after being stopped at a drunken driving checkpoint in the Los Angeles area.
Officer Cleon Joseph of the LAPD says the 37-year-old Evans was arrested Saturday night near Marina del Rey on suspicion of misdemeanor drunken driving. He says Evans … Read : Police: R&B singer Faith Evans arrested in Los Angeles on drunken driving charge.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai defends move to disband private security firms

Afghan pres defends move to disband security firms

KABUL, Afghanistan – President Hamid Karzai on Sunday defended his decision to disband private security firms, saying they were undermining Afghanistan’s police and army and contributing to corruption.
Last Monday Karzai ordered Afghan and international security companies to disband by the end of the year, despite U.S. concerns the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Wash. bride arrested for DUI after bachelorette party, released just hours before wedding

Wash. bride arrested for DUI on her wedding day

BELLEVUE, Wash. – A 31-year-old bride heading home from her bachelorette party was arrested for drunk driving hours before she was to get married.
Washington State Patrol Trooper Christina Martin says the woman was driving over 90 mph Saturday morning and weaving in and out of traffic on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Wash. bride arrested for DUI after bachelorette party, released just hours before wedding.

Former Mo. inmate says he’s still trying to get justice years after conviction was overturned

Man whose conviction was overturned still fighting

LEE’S SUMMIT, Mo. – After Ted White Jr. was wrongfully convicted of molesting his 12-year-old stepdaughter, his parents poured everything they had into clearing their son’s name.
When he won his freedom after finding out that the detective who led the sex-abuse investigation was his estranged wife’s secret lover, White … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Former Mo. inmate says he’s still trying to get justice years after conviction was overturned.

Suicide bomber attacks hotel in Somalia’s capital; 8 reported dead, officials say

Suicide bomber attacks Somali hotel, killing 8

MOGADISHU, Somalia – A suicide bomber and a gunman stormed a hotel in Somalia’s capital on Tuesday, and an early report from a government journalist said that at least eight people had been killed, including members of parliament.
A spokesman for the African Union, Maj. Barigye Bahoku, confirmed the suicide …. Read the original article  : here.

Maoist killed by security forces, rebels gun down man

MIDNAPORE – A Maoist guerilla was killed during a three-hour gunfight between the rebels and joint security forces in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district early Tuesday, police said.

The rebels immediately retaliated by gunning down a man near the site of the gun battle in Bakshibandh area, about half a kilometre from a Central Reserve … Read more : Maoist killed by security forces, rebels gun down man.

40 civilians killed in Somalia fighting

MOGADISHU – At least 40 civilians were killed and 106 injured in fighting between insurgents and government troops in the Somali capital of Mogadishu since Monday, media reports said Tuesday.

“The toll increased to 40 civilians and 106 others injured since Monday,” Xinhua said, citing an Al Jazeera TV report.
“The fierce conflict between … Read more >>>.

DeLay heads to Texas court in money laundering case, days after DOJ ends probe without charges

Money laundering case against DeLay moving forward

AUSTIN, Texas – Former House majority leader Tom DeLay is headed to court again in the criminal case against him in Texas.
DeLay and two co-defendants were indicted in 2005 in connection with efforts to elect Republican state legislative candidates in 2002. Since then, pretrial arguments have been making their … Original source on Gaea Times at : DeLay heads to Texas court in money laundering case, days after DOJ ends probe without charges.

US sheriffs struggle with high extradition costs, must weigh risks of letting suspects go

US sheriffs struggle with high extradition costs

ATLANTA – Authorities in Michigan’s Genesee County were jubilant when Atlanta police arrested a suspect in a spate of serial stabbings that left five people dead. They weren’t so thrilled about picking up the tab to get him back.
Extradition has long been a sore spot for sheriffs who contend … Read more »».

Punjab’s new worry – militants not using mobiles

CHANDIGARH – Militants who are trying to re-group in Punjab have a new tactic to avoid capture – not using mobile phones, which, say security agencies, has become a “major handicap” in tracking these terror elements.

A confidential communication from the office of Suresh Arora, Punjab’s additional director general of police (intelligence), to top security officials … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Punjab’s new worry – militants not using mobiles.

China demands answers after 8 Hong Kong tourists killed in Philippine bus hijacking

China wants answers after 9 killed on hijacked bus

MANILA, Philippines – China demanded answers Tuesday from the Philippines after a 12-hour hostage drama in the heart of Manila ended with eight Hong Kong tourists dead along with their Filipino hostage-taker after a day of botched negotiations.
Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said his government was “appalled” …. Source article  : China demands answers after 8 Hong Kong tourists killed in Philippine bus hijacking.

Government wants to rule Bastar at gunpoint: Mahendra Karma (Interview)

RAIPUR – Mahendra Karma, the opposition Congress heavyweight in Chhattisgarh who was widely said to be behind the controversial Salwa Judum movement against Maoists, says the state government wants to rule the restive Bastar region at gunpoint as it has lost touch with the people.

“The Maoist movement is spreading in Bastar day by day because …. Original article  : Government wants to rule Bastar at gunpoint: Mahendra Karma (Interview).

AP sources: Former President Jimmy Carter going to NKorea to free American imprisoned there

AP sources: Carter to NKorea to free American
WASHINGTON – Former President Jimmy Carter was preparing to leave for North Korea on Tuesday to try to gain the freedom of an American imprisoned for illegally entering the communist nation, U.S. officials said Monday night.
North Korea agreed to release Aijalon Mahli Gomes if Carter were … Read more : AP sources: Former President Jimmy Carter going to NKorea to free American imprisoned there.

Woman pleads guilty plea at court martial in Washington to killing 2 fellow soldiers

Woman pleads guilty to killing 2 fellow soldiers

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – A woman accused of killing two fellow soldiers and abducting their baby pleaded guilty Monday to murder and kidnapping charges to avoid a possible death penalty, an Army spokeswoman said.
Ivette G. Davila faces life in prison, but her court martial judge, Col. Stephen … Original source on Gaea Times at : Woman pleads guilty plea at court martial in Washington to killing 2 fellow soldiers.

3rd suspect in theft of watch from dying man in Pa. hospital pleads guilty, gets probation

3rd suspect guilty in Pa. theft from dying man

PHILADELPHIA – A third defendant has pleaded guilty to stealing a wristwatch from a man dying in a Philadelphia hospital waiting room last fall.
Richard Alten pleaded guilty to theft and conspiracy Monday. Common Pleas Judge Adam Beloff sentenced the 45-year-old to 30 months of probation and drug …. Original article  : 3rd suspect in theft of watch from dying man in Pa. hospital pleads guilty, gets probation.

Alaska man who made hit list of enemies of Islam gets 8 years in prison on terror charges

Alaska man gets 8 years in prison for hit list

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A man from a remote Alaska community who compiled a hit list of targets he believed were enemies of Islam was sentenced Monday to eight years in prison.
Paul Rockwood Jr., along with his wife, Nadia Rockwood, faced counts of lying to FBI agents …. Source article  : Alaska man who made hit list of enemies of Islam gets 8 years in prison on terror charges.

Wyo. jury finds trucker’s identity was stolen; victim wants his ordeal to teach other drivers

Ill. trucker rebuilding life after identity theft

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Trucker Earl Robert Hood didn’t know his identity had been stolen until his commercial driver’s license was suspended in 2008 for four DUIs he never committed.
He promptly lost his job and many of his possessions and saw his marriage end in divorce. Now he wants other … Read more »»».

Judge in Lohan case to issue mystery ruling amid unconfirmed reports of expected release

Mystery ruling coming in Lindsay Lohan case

LOS ANGELES – A court official says the judge handling Lindsay Lohan’s criminal case plans to issue an unspecified ruling in the case a day before her attorneys are due in court.
Los Angeles Superior Court spokesman Allan Parachini said Monday that Judge Elden Fox plans to issue the ruling … Original source on Gaea Times at : Judge in Lohan case to issue mystery ruling amid unconfirmed reports of expected release.

Ansel Adams trust sues Calif. man over negatives purported to be photographer’s lost work

Ansel Adams trust sues over garage sale negatives

SAN JOSE, Calif. – A group representing Ansel Adams sued a Fresno man Monday for selling prints and posters under the name of the famed nature photographer, the latest salvo in a dispute over glass negatives bought at a garage sale and purported to be Adams’ lost work.
The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Federal judge in Roger Clemens case issues gag order

Judge in Clemens case issues gag order
WASHINGTON – A judge assigned to Roger Clemens’ perjury case issued a gag order Monday prohibiting public comments by the principles in the case that could affect the jury pool for a possible trial.

Clemens was indicted by a federal grand jury Thursday for allegedly lying to Congress. The six-count … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Federal judge in Roger Clemens case issues gag order.

Sentencing ex-Ill. Gov. Blagojevich on conviction in 1st trial likely to await outcome of 2nd

Sentencing likely to await Blagojevich retrial

CHICAGO – As former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich works the national media circuit proclaiming his innocence, he has publicly ignored one consequence of his conviction on a single count.
He now faces a prison term of up to five years for lying to the FBI.
Just how and when he’s sentenced depends …. Original source  : Sentencing ex-Ill. Gov. Blagojevich on conviction in 1st trial likely to await outcome of 2nd.

Wyo. jury: Trucker’s identity stolen by man who racked up 4 DUIs using name

Jury convicts man of stealing trucker’s identity

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Trucker Earl Robert Hood says he didn’t know his identity had been stolen until his commercial driver’s license was suspended for four DUIs he never committed.
Hood traveled from his home in Illinois to Wheatland, Wyo., to testify against 47-year-old Danny Arnold Rodgers, who was convicted last … Read more >>.

Wis. woman killed by Iraq war veteran husband had been staying at relative’s house, police say

Wis. woman killed by husband was staying elsewhere

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The pregnant wife of an Iraq war veteran had been staying at a relative’s house in the weeks before she was shot and killed by her husband, Superior police confirmed Monday – without elaborating on possible reasons for the recent change in sleeping arrangements.
Matthew Magdzas, … Read more >>>.

Alaska man accused of hit list of enemies of Islam gets 8 years in prison on terror charges

Alaska man gets 8 years in prison for hit list

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A man from a remote Alaska community who was accused of compiling a hit list of targets he believed were enemies of Islam was sentenced Monday to eight years in prison.
Paul Rockwood Jr., along with his wife, Nadia, faced counts of lying to …. Source article  : Alaska man accused of hit list of enemies of Islam gets 8 years in prison on terror charges.

Afghan police recruit kills 2 Spanish officers, interpreter in latest infiltration attack

Afghan police recruit kills 2 Spanish officers

KABUL, Afghanistan – An Afghan police recruit opened fire on Spanish trainers early Wednesday, killing two of them along with their interpreter, Spain’s Interior Minister said.
The recruit was subsequently shot and killed by Spanish officers who had been conducting a police training course at their base in Badghis province, …. Source article  : Afghan police recruit kills 2 Spanish officers, interpreter in latest infiltration attack.

22 killed in bomb blasts in Iraqi cities

BAGHDAD – Bomb blasts across Iraq killed at least 22 people, including two children, and injured dozens in key cities early Wednesday.

At least 11 people were killed and more than 30 injured when a car bomb exploded near a police station in the capital Baghdad. Witnesses said four policemen were among the dead.
Seven people … Read more »»».

Ex-Khmer Rouge prison chief files appeal against war crimes conviction and prison term

Khmer Rouge figure appeals war crimes conviction

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – The former chief jailer of the Khmer Rouge has appealed his conviction and 35-year prison sentence, his lawyer said Wednesday.
Kaing Guek Eav, alias Duch, was convicted of war crimes and crimes against humanity in July and sentenced to 35 years in prison – reduced to … Read : Ex-Khmer Rouge prison chief files appeal against war crimes conviction and prison term.

Murder inquiry begins after police discover body of man believed to be UK intelligence officer

Murder inquiry into death of suspected UK spy

LONDON – Police say they have launched a murder inquiry after the body of a man reported by British media to be an intelligence officer was discovered in a central London apartment.
London’s Scotland Yard said Wednesday that a corpse was found on Monday inside an apartment close to … Read more »»».

DeLay wants Texas trial on charges related to campaign funds moved from liberal Austin

DeLay asks that trial be moved from liberal Austin

AUSTIN, Texas – Former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay is getting the trial he’s been seeking for five years that he says will clear him of allegations that he illegally funneled campaign money.
Now he wants the case moved out of liberal Austin.
“I doubt I can get … Read more >>.

Maoists kill two in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas killed two people in a forested area of Orissa’s Malkangiri district after accusing them of being police informers, an official said Wednesday.

The rebels dragged 50-year-old Manoranjan Biswas and his 30-year-old son Mohan from their house at MV 98 village late Tuesday.
“Maoists killed them in a nearby area slitting their throats. … Original article on : Maoists kill two in Orissa.

CIA sees more threat from Al Qaeda in Yemen than Pakistan

WASHINGTON – The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) now sees one of Al Qaeda’s off-shoots – rather than the core group now based in Pakistan – as the most urgent threat to US security, according to the Washington Post.

The new assessment of Al Qaeda’s affiliate in Yemen has helped prompt senior Obama administration officials to … Read more : CIA sees more threat from Al Qaeda in Yemen than Pakistan.

Military: Attacker tries to drive truck with explosives into Mauritanian army barracks

Attacker attempts to blow up Mauritanian barracks

NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania – A suicide bomber attempted to drive a truck loaded with explosives into an army barracks but was shot and killed when he refused to stop the car before dawn on Wednesday, an army official said.
The high-ranking officer, who asked not to be identified because he is …. Source article  : Military: Attacker tries to drive truck with explosives into Mauritanian army barracks.

Marines find 72 bodies at suspected drug cartel cadaver dumping ground in northern Mexico

Marines find 72 bodies in northern Mexico
MEXICO CITY – Mexican marines found the dumped bodies of 72 people at a rural location in northern Mexico following a shootout with suspected drug cartel gunmen that left one marine and three suspects dead, the Navy reported late Tuesday.

The cadavers of 58 men and 14 women were found … Read more »»».

Survivors and remains of slain Hong Kong tourists head home as Philippines grapples with anger

Bodies, survivors of Manila hijack drama head home

MANILA, Philippines – Most survivors of a tragic hostage drama were returning home to Hong Kong along with the bodies of eight slain tourists Wednesday, while the Philippines grappled with outrage over police mishandling and botched negotiations with the gunman.
The interior secretary acknowledged police were ill-prepared and that … Read : Survivors and remains of slain Hong Kong tourists head home as Philippines grapples with anger.

Marijuana plants worth $100 million seized on Calif. farm believed run by drug traffickers

Pot plants worth $100 million seized in Calif.

SAN DIEGO – Authorities say narcotics task force agents have seized an estimated 25,000 marijuana plants worth up to $100 million on a Southern California farm believed to be run by Mexican drug traffickers.
Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Reed, a member of the San Diego County Integrated Narcotics Task Force, … Read more »»».

Hezbollah chief calls on Lebanon to build nuclear reactor

BEIRUT – Seyyed Hassan Nasarllah, leader of the Lebanese Shia movement Hezbollah, called on Lebanon’s government to follow Tehran’s footsteps and build a nuclear facility to generate electricity like the reactor in Bushehr, Iran.

“The cost of building the Bushehr reactor was less than Lebanon’s investment in the electricity network. I call on the government to …. Read the original article  : here.

US freezes assets of Osama son-in-law

WASHINGTON – In a continuing campaign to target Al Qaeda’s sources of funds, the United States has frozen the assets of Muhammad Abdallah Hasan Abu-al-Khayr, a son-in-law of Osama bin Laden.

The assets of al-Khayr, who is considered a possible replacement for the terror group’s chief financial officer, would be frozen in US jurisdictions under new … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US freezes assets of Osama son-in-law.

Lewis-McChord soldier sentenced to life without parole for double murder, kidnapping baby

Wash. soldier sentenced to life without parole

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – A military judge at Joint Base Lewis-McChord has sentenced Spc. Ivette Davila to life in prison without parole for killing two fellow soldiers and abducting their baby.
Col. Stephen Henley sentenced the 24-year-old soldier late Tuesday at the conclusion of testimony in the penalty phase …. Original source  : Lewis-McChord soldier sentenced to life without parole for double murder, kidnapping baby.

Military: Attacker tries to drive truck with explosives into Mauritanian army barrack

Attacker attempts to blow up Mauritian barracks

NOUAKCHOTT, Mauritania – A suicide bomber attempted to drive a truck loaded with explosives into an army barrack but was shot and killed when he refused to stop the car before dawn on Wednesday, an army official said.
The high-ranking officer, who asked not to be identified because he is …. Read the original article  : Military: Attacker tries to drive truck with explosives into Mauritanian army barrack.

Australian prisoner found in pub drinking beer after escaping from police, swimming river

Escaped Aussie prisoner found drinking beer in pub

BRISBANE, Australia – A prisoner who escaped from police and swam across Australia’s Brisbane River was recaptured nearly seven hours later while downing a beer at a pub, police and hotel employees said Wednesday.
Kayd Thorp, 24, escaped from police Tuesday afternoon at the Brisbane airport, where he had … Original article on : Australian prisoner found in pub drinking beer after escaping from police, swimming river.

Va. man acquitted of 1991 killing of camp counselor from Fla. in northeastern PA

Va. man acquitted of killing camp counselor in Pa.

HONESDALE, Pa. – A Virginia man accused of killing a camp counselor nearly two decades ago in northeastern Pennsylvania was acquitted Tuesday.
Jurors deliberated for about 3 1/2 hours before finding Jeffrey Plishka, 47, of Onley, Va., not guilty in the 1991 slaying of Laura Ronning in a … Read : Va. man acquitted of 1991 killing of camp counselor from Fla. in northeastern PA.

‘Yemen ignores rights in fighting insurgents’

SANA’A – Yemeni authorities have “sacrificed” human rights and committed unlawful killings of people linked to Al Qaeda and local insurgents as the Arab country tried to confront threats from those groups, Amnesty International said Wednesday.

In a report titled “Cracking Down Under Pressure”, the international rights watchdog called on Yemeni authorities to “stop sacrificing human … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Yemen ignores rights in fighting insurgents’.

Mexican state prosecutor says Zetas drug gang ordered killing of mayor in northern Mexico

Mexico: Zetas gang ordered killing of mayor

MEXICO CITY – The Zetas drug gang ordered the killing of a mayor in northern Mexico because he had disciplined police officers secretly working with the cartel, authorities said Tuesday.
Nuevo Leon state Attorney General Alejandro Garza y Garza said several of the seven police officers arrested in the killing …. Original article  : Mexican state prosecutor says Zetas drug gang ordered killing of mayor in northern Mexico.

Judge revokes permits that allowed oversized shipments through northern Idaho, faults state

Permits revoked for oversized shipments through ID

LEWISTON, Idaho – A judge on Tuesday revoked special permits allowing a company to truck four oversized loads of oil refinery equipment through a federally protected river corridor, saying the state failed to address public concerns.
Second District Judge John Bradbury ordered the Idaho Transportation Department to review the request … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Judge revokes permits that allowed oversized shipments through northern Idaho, faults state.

First steps being taken toward Blagojevich retrial amid questions about future defense team

First steps being taken toward Blagojevich retrial

CHICAGO – A little more than a week after former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s monthslong federal corruption trial ended with jurors deadlocked on all but one charge, the first steps are being taken toward doing it all over again.
A hearing scheduled for Thursday is the first since a mistrial … Read more »».

Jailed terrorist rants on extremist website

LONDON – A convicted British Muslim terrorist is urging fanatics to train with guns for a holy war in a rant on an internet site, which also features sermons by hate clerics such as Egyptian-born Abu Hamza.

Shah Jalal Hussain, who was jailed two years ago for raising funds for terrorists in Iraq, is heard …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jailed terrorist rants on extremist website.

‘What if US is seen as exporter of terrorism?’

WASHINGTON – Citing the case of Pakistani-American David Headley, a classified CIA document released by whistleblower organisation Wikileaks asks what would happen if foreign countries began to view the US as an “exporter of terrorism”.

The document prepared by the CIA’s “red cell”, a unit responsible for preparing analysis papers from an adversarial perspective, notes that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘What if US is seen as exporter of terrorism?’.

Perry talks often about Texas Rangers’ border security work, just don’t ask him for specifics

State obscures elite Texas Rangers’ border work
McALLEN, Texas – Gov. Rick Perry has told just about anyone who will listen about his plan to dispatch elite teams of Texas Rangers to the border to do what he says the federal government won’t – keep Texans safe from encroaching Mexican drug violence.
Just …. Source  : Perry talks often about Texas Rangers’ border security work, just don’t ask him for specifics.

Death of 72 migrants at Mexican ranch highlights brutally of human trafficking

Drug cartel suspected in massacre of 72 migrants

MEXICO CITY – The discovery of 72 slain Central and South American migrants on a ranch just south of the U.S. border provides a horrific reminder of the brutality of human trafficking in a country dominated by drug cartels.
A wounded Ecuadorean who escaped the killing ground in Mexico’s … Read : Death of 72 migrants at Mexican ranch highlights brutally of human trafficking.

PM wants ‘non-lethal ways’ in Kashmir, calls for task force

NEW DELHI – Calling for “non-lethal ways to manage protests” in Kashmir, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday asked the home minister to establish a “high-power task force” to devise ways of controlling crowds. He also reached out to Maoists, renewing his offer for talks on the condition they abjure violence.

Addressing the 45th annual meet of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists attack police station, blast buildings in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoists attacked a police station, torched six trucks, blasted a government building and a political party’s office in two districts of Jharkhand while enforcing their 24-hour strike in parts of the state early Thursday.

“Maoist guerillas attacked Pirtand police station around 1 a.m. in Giridih district, some 210 km from here,” District Superintendent of … Read more >>>.

Eight policemen killed in Afghanistan

KUNDUZ – Eight Afghan policemen were killed and one was injured Thursday in the northern province of Kunduz when gunmen attacked them, the provincial governor said.

“Our eight brave policemen were killed and another one wounded when unknown gunmen attacked their checkpoints in the Bandar-e-Imam Sahib area of Kunduz city,” Mohammed Omer told DPA.
Only one …. Original source  : Eight policemen killed in Afghanistan.

Michael Enright Held Without Bail

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Michael Enright, the 21-year-old honors student at the School of Visual Arts in New York, has been held without bail by a Manhattan district attorney after the former carried out a brutal attack on a Muslim taxi driver on Tuesday night. Michael Enright who slashed the throat of 44-year-old Bangladeshi Muslim … Original source on Gaea Times at : Michael Enright Held Without Bail.

Indian linked to new Al-Qaeda plot unearthed in Canada

TORONTO – An Al-Qaeda-linked terror plot was unearthed by Canadian security agencies Wednesday, with one of the suspects reportedly hailing from India.

Under what is curiously called “Operation Samosa,” the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) arrested two suspects early Wednesday. One of them said to be named Misbahuddin Ahmed who reportedly comes from India. Search for …. Source  : Indian linked to new Al-Qaeda plot unearthed in Canada.

Mexican border state to raise pay of state police to deter them from working for drug cartels

Mexico state to boost pay of state police
MONTERREY, Mexico – The governor of a Mexican border state said Wednesday he will give state police officers a 20 percent pay raise in an effort to deter them from being lured into helping drug cartels.

Nuevo Leon state Gov. Rodrigo Medina said the increase would be given only …. Original article  : Mexican border state to raise pay of state police to deter them from working for drug cartels.

Maoists attack police station in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoist rebels attacked a police station, torched six trucks and blasted the office of a political party in two districts of Jharkhand while enforcing their 24-hour strike in parts of the state early Thursday.

Nearly 200 Maoists attacked Pirtand police station at around 1 a.m. in Giridih district, some 210 km from here. A …. Original article  : Maoists attack police station in Jharkhand.

Australian tax authorities bar ‘Crocodile Dundee’ star Paul Hogan from returning to US home

Tax officials keep ‘Crocodile Dundee’ in Australia

SYDNEY – Actor Paul Hogan, star of the “Crocodile Dundee” movie trilogy, has been barred from leaving Australia until he pays a disputed tax bill, his lawyer said on Thursday.
The 70-year-old actor, who currently lives in Los Angeles and first gained a public profile in the United States with … Read more : Australian tax authorities bar ‘Crocodile Dundee’ star Paul Hogan from returning to US home.

Blast in Argentina bank

Buenos Aires, Aug 26 (IANS/EFE) A bomb exploded at a branch of Spanish banking giant BBVA in Buenos Aires, destroying an ATM but causing no injuries, police said.

The bombing at the BBVA-Banco Frances Wednesday, which shattered the bank branch’s windows, is the second this month against Spanish banks in Argentina.
No one has, however, claimed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Blast in Argentina bank.

Finances and welfare of 104-year-old Montana copper heiress at center of NY criminal probe

Finances of heiress, 104, at center of NY probe

NEW YORK – A 104-year-old heiress to a Montana copper mining fortune – now living in a New York hospital room – is at the center of a criminal investigation into her fortune and welfare, two people familiar with the probe told The Associated Press.
The Manhattan district … Read more >>>.

Gunmen in south Philippines stop bus at roadblock, kill 4 people, including 2 police marshals

Gunmen stop bus in southern Philippines, kill 4

MANILA, Philippines – Gunmen wearing police uniforms stopped a passenger bus in the southern Philippines early Thursday and fatally shot four people, including two police marshals, officials said.
The attack came just three days after a disgruntled ex-policeman took hostage a busload of Hong Kong tourists in Manila, killing …. Original article  : Gunmen in south Philippines stop bus at roadblock, kill 4 people, including 2 police marshals.

Canadian man gets 3 years in federal prison for selling fake cancer drug over Internet

Canadian sentenced for selling fake cancer drug

PHOENIX – A Canadian man was sentenced Wednesday to nearly three years in federal prison for selling fake cancer drugs over the Internet.
Federal prosecutors in Phoenix say 22-year-old Hazim Gaber, of Edmonton, Alberta, was given a 33-month prison term and ordered to pay a $75,000 fine and nearly $54,000 …. Original article  : Canadian man gets 3 years in federal prison for selling fake cancer drug over Internet.

Amber Alert For Sex Offender On The Run

NEW JERSEY (GaeaTimes.com) — The amber alert issued for absconding sex-offender, Terry Dusseault has created a sense of unease among the residents. The reason behind it is that the alleged sexual assaulter of children on 6 counts and his 8 year old son, Terry Dusseault Jr is missing.
As the New Jersey State Police arrived …. Original source  : Amber Alert For Sex Offender On The Run.

Man charged with murder in shootings that killed 4 people outside bar in Buffalo, NY

Man charged in NY shooting deaths of 4 near bar

BUFFALO, N.Y. – A man who had been sought by police in a sidewalk shooting that killed four people including a Texas man celebrating his wedding anniversary turned himself in Wednesday and was charged with murder.
Riccardo McCray was charged with four counts of second-degree murder in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Man charged with murder in shootings that killed 4 people outside bar in Buffalo, NY.

Prosecutors get results of investigation into domestic violence claims against Mel Gibson

Prosecutors get results of Gibson investigation

LOS ANGELES – A sheriff’s official says detectives have given prosecutors the results of their investigation into domestic violence allegations against Mel Gibson.
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Steve Whitmore says the results were turned over Wednesday for a decision on whether charges will be filed.
Detectives investigated claims made against … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prosecutors get results of investigation into domestic violence claims against Mel Gibson.

Australian police say they worked with Facebook to crack online child porn syndicate

Australian police, Facebook crack child porn ring

ADELAIDE, Australia – An international child pornography ring that operated on Facebook has been brought down with the social networking site’s support, Australian police said Friday.
Eleven people have been charged in Australia, Britain and Canada in connection with the syndicate, which involved people using Facebook to distribute and view … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australian police say they worked with Facebook to crack online child porn syndicate.

Cake Boss Arrested for Sexual Assualt of Teenagers

NEW JERSEY (GaeaTimes.com) — Remigio Gonzalez, who is the brother in law of “Cake Boss” host Buddy Valastro has been arrested with the charge of sexually assaulting teenager. Gonzalez, himself is a cake decorator of city hall bake shop and was described as one of the best cake decorators on the television show “Cake …. Read the original article  : here.

New York Gov. Paterson could face charge as testimony on World Series tickets is questioned

NY gov could face charge over World Series tickets

ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. David Paterson could face a criminal charge over his testimony surrounding tickets he secured last year from the New York Yankees for the opening game of the World Series.
The state’s former chief judge, acting as a special counsel, called Paterson’s testimony “inaccurate and … Read : New York Gov. Paterson could face charge as testimony on World Series tickets is questioned.

Al Qaeda terror plot in Canada traced back to Pakistan, Iran

TORONTO – An Al Qaeda-linked plot in Canada, in which the suspects were preparing to carry out the first terror attack in the country, has been traced back to Pakistan, Iran and Dubai even as police arrested another plotter Thursday.

The suspects were just “months” away from carrying out the first terrorist attack on Canadian soil, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Al Qaeda terror plot in Canada traced back to Pakistan, Iran.

Former Ill. Gov. Blagojevich headed for solo retrial after feds drop charges against brother

Rod Blagojevich headed for retrial without brother
CHICAGO – Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s older brother dreaded his lawyer’s phone call.
Robert Blagojevich expected to learn when he’d again stand trial alongside his sibling, after a jury deadlocked last week on all four corruption charges against him and 23 of 24 charges against the former …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Japan opens up secretive world of capital punishment by giving rare media tour of gallows

Japan gives rare tour of gallows to spur debate

TOKYO – Japan opened up the secretive world of its capital punishment system to the public Friday, offering journalists a rare tour of Tokyo’s main gallows – an apparent effort to stoke debate about a practice widely supported here.
All executions in Japan are carried out by hanging, …. Source  : Japan opens up secretive world of capital punishment by giving rare media tour of gallows.

As war winds down, US can apply lessons learned in Iraq to Afghanistan

Looking at lessons that can be learned from Iraq
BAGHDAD – They are different wars in different regions, with different challenges. But as the war in Iraq winds down, there is a lot the U.S. military can learn and apply to Afghanistan, from how to deal with contractors to when to draw down … Read more »»».

Life returns to normal for a day in Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR – Life once again limped back to normal in Srinagar and other towns of the Kashmir Valley Friday with the lifting of curfew restrictions and the separatists calling off their protest for a day.

“Curfew has been lifted from Srinagar and all other towns of the valley today (Friday),” a police officer said here.
The …. Original source  : Life returns to normal for a day in Kashmir Valley.

NY governor could face charge as testimony on Yanks-Phils World Series tickets is questioned

NY gov could face charge over Yankees-Phillies tix

ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. David Paterson could face a criminal charge over his testimony surrounding tickets he secured last year from the New York Yankees for the opening game of the World Series.
The state’s former chief judge, acting as a special counsel, called Paterson’s testimony “inaccurate and misleading” … Read more >>.

Authorities: Utah sheriff’s deputy shot and killed near Arizona-Utah border, suspect on loose

Sheriff’s deputy fatally shot near AZ-Utah border

FREDONIA, Ariz. – Authorities are using helicopters and tracking dogs in the search for a man who allegedly shot and killed a Utah sheriff’s deputy Thursday near the Arizona-Utah border.
A Coconino County sheriff’s spokeswoman says authorities were chasing 23-year-old Scott Curley on foot when he shot a Kane County …. Source article  : Authorities: Utah sheriff’s deputy shot and killed near Arizona-Utah border, suspect on loose.

Muslims in British jails may launch terror strikes when freed

LONDON – Some 800 Muslims lodged in British jails may have been turned by fellow inmates into fanatics ready to launch terror attacks, a media report said Friday.

An alarming report by defence experts warns that the security services face a “significant challenge” in spotting and keeping tabs on possible suicide bombers and other jihadists as … Original source on Gaea Times at : Muslims in British jails may launch terror strikes when freed.

Al-Qaeda terror plot in Canada traced to Pak-Af, Iran

TORONTO – An Al-Qaeda-linked terrorist plot in Canada unearthed Wednesday with the arrest two suspects has been traced back to Pakistan, Iran and Dubai even as police arrested another plotter Thursday.

The suspects were just “months” away from carrying out the first terrorist attack on Canadian soil, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said.
While 30-year-old … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Al-Qaeda terror plot in Canada traced to Pak-Af, Iran.

Gyaneshwari sabotage key accused killed in gun battle

KOLKATA – Pro-Maoist leader Umakanta Mahato, a prime suspect in the Gyaneshwari Express sabotage case, was killed in a gun battle with joint security forces in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district early Friday, police said.

“Umakanta Mahato was killed sometime early morning today (Friday) following an encounter in a forest area of Jhargram,” West Bengal Director …. Source article  : Gyaneshwari sabotage key accused killed in gun battle.

Under heavy security, Mexico starts to identify 72 migrants killed near US border

Mexico starts identifying 72 massacred migrants

SAN FERNANDO, Mexico – Heavily guarded mortuary workers have begun identifying 72 migrants massacred near the U.S. border, while human rights advocates are demanding Mexico do more to stop the exploitation and abuse of migrants that they say led to the heinous crime.
Marines are protecting the pink, one-story funeral home …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Under heavy security, Mexico starts to identify 72 migrants killed near US border.

Army contractor pleads guilty in NY to accepting cash to steer Afghanistan contracts

Army contractor tells NY judge he accepted cash

NEW YORK – A man who worked for a U.S. Army contractor in Afghanistan has pleaded guilty to criminal charges in New York, admitting that he accepted $200,000 in cash payments to steer contracts to subcontractors.
Daniel Freeman entered the plea to charges of receiving gratuities and money laundering … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Army contractor pleads guilty in NY to accepting cash to steer Afghanistan contracts.

Colo. man pleads guilty to sending threatening letters to Obama and Colo., Ala. congressmen

Colo. man pleads guilty in Obama anthrax hoax
DENVER – A man from the Denver area has pleaded guilty to sending letters containing white powder to President Barack Obama, members of Congress from Colorado and Alabama, and to Argentine consulates.
Jay DeVaughn pleaded guilty Thursday to 13 federal counts of mailing threatening communications. DeVaughn, also …. Source article  : Colo. man pleads guilty to sending threatening letters to Obama and Colo., Ala. congressmen.

Mexican judge finds ex-state police director not guilty of aiding drug gang in Michoacan

Mexico frees ex-state police director in drug case

MORELIA, Mexico – A Mexican judge has found the former state police director in the western state of Michoacan innocent of charges he helped a drug gang.
Mario Bautista was arrested by federal investigators in May 2009 along with 34 other local and state officials in Michoacan. Twenty-six of …. Source article  : Mexican judge finds ex-state police director not guilty of aiding drug gang in Michoacan.

Venezuelan authorities seize more than 4.4 tons of cocaine allagedly destined for Mexico

Huge cocaine stash found on ranch in Venezuela

CARACAS, Venezuela – Authorities seized more than 4.4 tons (4 metric tons) of cocaine at a ranch Thursday after F-16 fighter jets intercepted a plane that was flying to pick up the load, Venezuela’s top security official said.
Justice Minister Tareck El Aissami called the drug seizure a significant … Original source on Gaea Times at : Venezuelan authorities seize more than 4.4 tons of cocaine allagedly destined for Mexico.

Suriname’s new president ailing at home from undisclosed illness; transfers power to VP

Suriname president falls ill, cedes power to No. 2

PARAMARIBO, Suriname – Suriname’s newly elected president, former dictator Desi Bouterse, is ailing from an undisclosed illness and has temporarily ceded power to his vice president in the South American country.
Vice President Robert Ameerali announced Thursday in Parliament that he will be in charge until Sept. 2 … Read : Suriname’s new president ailing at home from undisclosed illness; transfers power to VP.

Woman ordered to stand trial on charge of slashing Leonardo DiCaprio’s face with glass

Woman to stand trial on charge of slicing DiCaprio

LOS ANGELES – A judge ordered a woman to stand trial on a charge of slashing Leonardo DiCaprio’s face with glass during a 2005 party.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Edmund Willcox Clarke ordered Aretha Wilson to face one count of assault with a deadly weapon. The charge …. Source article  : Woman ordered to stand trial on charge of slashing Leonardo DiCaprio’s face with glass.

Pakistan looking for militants after firing near US consulate (Third Lead)

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani security forces Saturday surrounded a building where suspected militants were hiding after firing occurred near the US consulate in Peshawar, capital of the northwestern province of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

An unknown number of gunmen opened fire around 6.00 a.m. a few hundred metres from the US consulate on Khyber Road, where most of the government … Original article on : Pakistan looking for militants after firing near US consulate (Third Lead).

Iraqi prime minister puts nation on top alert for attacks days before US ends combat mission

Iraq on highest alert for terror attacks
BAGHDAD – The Iraqi prime minister put his nation on its highest alert for terror attacks, as insurgents hammer Iraqi security forces preparing to take over for a U.S. combat mission that formally ends on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said Iraqi intelligence indicated that an al-Qaida front group and … Read : Iraqi prime minister puts nation on top alert for attacks days before US ends combat mission.

7 Folsom State Prison inmates hospitalized after riot, shots fired by guards

7 Folsom inmates hurt after riot, shots fired

SAN FRANCISCO – About 200 inmates rioted at Folsom State Prison and shots were fired by guards to quell the disturbance. Seven inmates were hospitalized but officials said it wasn’t clear how many suffered gunshot wounds.
Correctional officers opened fire as they tried to break up rioting that erupted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Families of migrants killed in Mexican massacre say they couldn’t pay ransom

Families of massacred migrants couldn’t pay ransom

REYNOSA, Mexico – Their families pleaded with them not to leave, fearful of the growing danger that faces migrants trekking through Mexican territory where brutal drug gangs hold sway.
But the young migrants from across Latin America insisted on going. They met their ends together, among 72 migrants massacred just …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Families of migrants killed in Mexican massacre say they couldn’t pay ransom.

Taliban attack two NATO bases in Afghanistan

KABUL – Taliban militants attacked two bases of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in eastern Afghanistan in predawn raids Saturday.

Militants attacked the bases in Khost province with indirect and small arms fire, a NATO statement said, adding that ISAF troops repelled the attackers and killed at least 10 insurgents, capturing several more.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Taliban attack two NATO bases in Afghanistan.

Canadian parliament was target of terror plot

TORONTO – The Canadian parliament was reportedly on the hit-list of the Al-Qaeda-linked terror plot unearthed in the capital Ottawa Wednesday with the arrest of two suspects.

Another suspect was held Thursday and one more Friday, taking the number of arrests to four. Three overseas collaborators remain at large in the plot which security agencies have …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Canadian parliament was target of terror plot.

Authorities say 5 inmates at Folsom State Prison shot by guards after riot at prison

5 inmates shot by guards in riot at Folsom prison

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Authorities say five inmates at Folsom State Prison have been shot by guards after a riot broke out at the prison.
Prison spokesman Luis Patino says none of the gunshot wounds is believed to be life threatening.
He says correctional officers opened fire as they …. Source article  : Authorities say 5 inmates at Folsom State Prison shot by guards after riot at prison.

Gunfight near US consulate in Peshawar (Second Lead)

ISLAMABAD – A gunfight broke out Saturday morning between militants and security forces near the US consulate in Pakistan’s northwestern Peshawar city, media reports said.

An office of the security forces was attacked, but the motive was not immediately clear, Dawn reported citing the police. The US consulate is located nearby.
Troops immediately cordoned off the … Read more : Gunfight near US consulate in Peshawar (Second Lead).

Firing near US consulate in Peshawar

ISLAMABAD – A gunfight was raging Saturday morning between militants and security forces near the US consulate in Pakistan’s Peshawar city, Xinhua reported.

The firing broke out around 6.00 a.m. and is still on. Troops have surrounded an intelligence building which the militants have entered.
No further details were immediately available.
…. Source article  : Firing near US consulate in Peshawar.

Firing near US consulate in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A gunfight was reportedly in progress Saturday between militants and security forces near the US consulate in Pakistan’s northwestern Peshawar city.

The troops have cordoned off the area, Xinhua reported.
…. Read the original article  : Firing near US consulate in Pakistan.

Nigerian native Masai Ujiri returns to Denver to lead Nuggets; top priority: keeping Melo

Nuggets hire Ujiri as new GM, and priority is Melo

DENVER – The Denver Nuggets have hired a man with global basketball experience to manage a team that’s in a world of hurt: two big men sidelined, a player under police investigation and its superstar’s signature missing from a contract extension.
Former Nuggets international scout Masai Ujiri, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nigerian native Masai Ujiri returns to Denver to lead Nuggets; top priority: keeping Melo.

North Florida woman decapitated, dismembered; boyfriend charged with murder

Florida woman decapitated; boyfriend arrested

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – Authorities are saying a 48-year-old north Florida woman was decapitated and dismembered, and her boyfriend has been charged with murder in her death.
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office said Friday that parts of 48-year-old Jan Dunn Keller were found wrapped in a tarp in a garage at [..] Read the original article: here.

Police: Arizona man accused of putting infant son in freezer, charged with child abuse

Arizona man accused of putting baby in freezer

PHOENIX – Police say a suburban Phoenix man accused of putting his infant son in a freezer has been arrested on charges of child abuse.
Chandler police say Chance Kracke told police he was high on methamphetamine when he placed his son in the freezer Aug. 16.
Kracke told police … Original article on : Police: Arizona man accused of putting infant son in freezer, charged with child abuse.

Calif. investigators eye fatal shooting of 3 men in West Hollywood apartment

Detectives eye triple homicide in West Hollywood

LOS ANGELES – Authorities searched Friday for clues in the killing of three men who were shot in a West Hollywood apartment.
The victims, including two brothers, were killed shortly after 9 p.m. Thursday, and their killer or killers got away without anyone seeing them, sheriff’s Detective Bill Marsh said.
The …. Read the original article  : here.

2 Catholic priests stabbed to death in historic Peruvian monastery; police suspect robbers

Police: 2 priests slain in historic Peru monastery

LIMA, Peru – Police in Peru say two Roman Catholic priests have been stabbed to death inside a historic monastery two blocks from the capital’s main square.
The victims are identified as Ananias Aguila of Peru and Linan Ruiz of Puerto Rico.
Homicide department chief Miguel Canlla says they were …. Original article  : 2 Catholic priests stabbed to death in historic Peruvian monastery; police suspect robbers.

Attorney for Minnesota man charged with aiding suicides raises a mental illness defense

Man accused of aiding suicides claims insanity

FAIRBAULT, Minn. – A Minnesota lawyer for an ex-nurse charged with encouraging two people to kill themselves via online conversations wants his client’s confession thrown out, saying police stressed his client so much he was rendered insane.
Attorney Terry Watkins raised the mental illness defense at a motions hearing Friday … Original source on Gaea Times at : Attorney for Minnesota man charged with aiding suicides raises a mental illness defense.

Former Beazer Homes executive free on bond after facing charges that he manipulated books

Judge allows former Beazer exec free on bond

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – The former chief accounting officer for Beazer Homes USA Inc. was allowed to go free on bond Friday, just a couple of days after he was arrested on an 11-count federal indictment in North Carolina.
Officials said Michael T. Rand was released on bond after a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Former Beazer Homes executive free on bond after facing charges that he manipulated books.

Officials: Suspect ambushed, killed Utah deputy with high-powered rifle; manhunt under way

Officials: Suspect ambushed, killed Utah deputy

PHOENIX – An attempted burglary suspect laid in wait and used a high-powered rifle to fatally ambush a Utah sheriff’s deputy who was pursuing him, authorities said Friday.
Scott Curley hid beneath a tree in the small town of Fredonia, just south of the Utah border, and waited for two pursuing [..] Read the original article: here.

Summary Box: Paul Allen files tech patent suit against major tech co’s, including Google, eBay

Summary Box: Paul Allen sues major tech companies

THE COMPLAINT: Microsoft Corp. co-founder and billionaire Paul Allen is suing almost a dozen companies, many of them major tech companies, alleging they infringed on several Web technology patents that his company Interval Licensing LLC holds.
THE DEFENDANTS: Companies named in the suit include Apple Inc., eBay Inc., Yahoo …. Read the original article  : Summary Box: Paul Allen files tech patent suit against major tech co’s, including Google, eBay.

Georgia tailback Washaun Ealey charged with not reporting collision with parked truck

Georgia tailback charged with leaving accident

ATHENS, Ga. – Another Georgia football player has gotten into trouble, and this time it’s one of the team’s top running backs.
Tailback Washaun Ealey, who led the Bulldogs in rushing a year ago and expected to share carries this season with Caleb King, was suspended for at least one game …. Source  : Georgia tailback Washaun Ealey charged with not reporting collision with parked truck.

Two police officers among 12 killed in Chechnya

Grozny, Aug 29 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Two police officers and 10 militants were killed Sunday in a shootout in the ancestral village of Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov.

The shootout took place in Chechnya’s Kurchaloyevsky district. Kadyrov said bodies of the 10 killed militants were found at the scene, adding that the militants were being identified.
“Currently servicemen …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

5 kidnapped campaign workers for Afghan parliamentary candidate found dead

5 kidnapped Afghan campaign workers found dead

KABUL, Afghanistan – An Afghan official says villagers have found the bodies of five kidnapped campaign workers for a parliamentary candidate in the western province of Herat.
District chief Nasar Ahmad Popul says residents of Herat’s Adraskan district reported finding the bodies early Sunday.
The five were snatched by armed men …. Source  : 5 kidnapped campaign workers for Afghan parliamentary candidate found dead.

Hizbul militant surrenders with family in Kashmir

JAMMU – A Hizbul Mujahideen militant has returned from Pakistan- administered Kashmir and surrendered at the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district along with his family, saying life was becoming increasingly difficult across the border, police sources said.

Liyakat, of Surankote area of Poonch district, surrendered before the Indian Army at the … Read more >>>.

Maoists kill five security men in Chhattisgarh (Second Lead)

RAIPUR – Five security personnel were killed by Maoists Sunday as the rebels ambushed a patrolling team, leading to a gunfight in Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region, police said.

“Maoists ambushed a police patrolling party drawn from the Border Security Force (BSF), District Force (DF) and Special Police Officers (SPOs) in a thickly-forested area,” Inspector General of … Read more »».

Maoist arms suppliers held in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Two arms suppliers who allegedly catered to the Maoists were arrested early Sunday from West Bengal’s Bankura district, police said.

Biswanath Mondal and Sheikh Amjad were arrested from Bankura district’s Chatna area.
“We have arrested two arms suppliers from Chatna area early Sunday,” Bankura Superintendent of Police Pranab Kumar told IANS over phone.
Fifteen … Read more >>>.

Al Qaeda kill seven Yemeni soldiers

SANAA – Seven Yemeni soldiers were killed and five wounded in an Al Qaeda attack in the country’s troubled Abyan province, an official said.

The fatalities occurred when Al Qaeda militants raided a security check post in Modia district Saturday. The soldiers had gathered to break their Ramadan fast, Xinhua quoted an official as saying. …. Read the original article  : here.

Five security men killed in Chhattisgarh Maoist attack

RAIPUR – Five security personnel were killed by Maoists Sunday in a gunfight that broke out in Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region, police said.

“Maoists ambushed a police patrolling party drawn from the Border Security Force (BSF), District Force (DF) and Special Police Officers (SPOs) in a thickly-forested area,” Inspector General of Police (Bastar range) T.J. Longkumer …. Source  : Five security men killed in Chhattisgarh Maoist attack.

Five security men killed in Chhattisgarh gunfight

RAIPUR – Five security personnel were killed in a gunfight with Maoists in a forested area of Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region early Sunday, police said.

“Maoists ambushed a police patrolling party drawn from the Border Security Force (BSF), District Force (DF) and Special Police Officers (SPOs) in a thickly-forested area,” Inspector General of Police (Bastar range) …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Five security men killed in Chhattisgarh gunfight.

Former Serb army soldier avoids prison time for lying on refugee application

Judge: No prison for Bosnian refugee who lied

PORTLAND, Ore. – The father of a former Miss Oregon who lied about his army service during the Bosnian civil war when he applied for asylum in the United States has been sentenced to one year of probation.
Milenko Krstic, 53, of Beaverton, who pleaded guilty nearly two months …. Read the original article  : Former Serb army soldier avoids prison time for lying on refugee application.

Mexico federal prosecutors take over probe of migrant massacre, survivor opts to leave country

Mexico launches federal probe of migrant massacre

MEXICO CITY – Federal authorities said Saturday they will take over the investigation into the massacre of 72 migrants at a ranch in northern Mexico because evidence suggests drug traffickers were responsible.
They also said an Ecuadorean migrant who was the lone survivor has refused Mexico’s offer of a humanitarian …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mexico federal prosecutors take over probe of migrant massacre, survivor opts to leave country.

Dominican police charge former major league pitcher Burgos with kidnapping, attempted murder

DR police charge Burgos with attempted murder

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – Police have charged former major league pitcher Ambiorix Burgos with kidnapping and attempted murder after his ex-wife said she was forced to eat rat poison.
Judge Freddy Frias ordered Burgos on Saturday to remain in jail for three months while prosecutors prepare the case.
The 26-year-old … Read more : Dominican police charge former major league pitcher Burgos with kidnapping, attempted murder.

5 Calif. inmates shot by guards during riot at Folsom prison, 2 others injured

5 Calif. inmates shot during riot, 2 others hurt

SAN FRANCISCO – Prison guards shot into a crowd to stop 200 rioting inmates at California’s Folsom State Prison, wounding five, authorities said Saturday.
Another two inmates were injured by other prisoners during Friday’s riot, which began at about 7 p.m. in the main exercise yard and ended …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 5 Calif. inmates shot by guards during riot at Folsom prison, 2 others injured.

‘Vapor trail’ of smoke from SUV leads to Paris Hilton arrest on cocaine charge on Vegas Strip

‘Vapor trail’ leads to Paris Hilton’s Vegas arrest

LAS VEGAS – Smoke wafting from a Cadillac Escalade on the Las Vegas Strip set off Paris Hilton’s latest legal troubles when a motorcycle officer who suspected the smell was marijuana stopped the vehicle and police say a bag of cocaine later fell out of the 29-year-old socialite’s …. Source article  : ‘Vapor trail’ of smoke from SUV leads to Paris Hilton arrest on cocaine charge on Vegas Strip.

Afghan deputy atty gen who says corruption cases being held up is forced to retire

Afghan deputy attorney general forced to retire
KABUL, Afghanistan – A top Afghan prosecutor who has complained that the attorney general and others are blocking corruption cases against high-ranking government officials said Saturday that he had been forced into retirement.
Deputy Attorney General Fazel Ahmed Faqiryar said his boss, Attorney General Mohammad Ishaq Aloko, wrote …. Source  : Afghan deputy atty gen who says corruption cases being held up is forced to retire.

One of UK basketball’s top scorers, Ed Davender, sentenced to 8 years in ticket scam

Ex-UK basketball star sentenced in ticket scam

LEXINGTON, Ky. – One of the University of Kentucky’s all-time leading scorers in basketball has been sentenced to eight years in prison for his involvement in a ticket scam.
Ed Davender received the sentence Friday in a courtroom not far from the Lexington campus.
Davender pleaded guilty in Fayette County Circuit …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Far-right demonstrators clash with riot police in city in northern England

Far-right protesters clash with police in UK

LONDON – A right-wing group that opposes what it calls the spread of Islam in Britain clashed with riot police in northern England on Saturday, throwing bottles, rocks and a smoke bomb at authorities.
The demonstration by the English Defense League occurred in Bradford, a city with one of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Far-right demonstrators clash with riot police in city in northern England.

Reward offered in the search for suspect in killing of Utah deputy in northern Arizona

Reward offered for suspect in deputy killing

FREDONIA, Ariz. – The U.S. Marshals Service has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the capture of a man accused of killing a Utah sheriff’s deputy in northern Arizona.
Authorities say 23-year-old Scott Curley vanished after he fatally shot 41-year-old Kane County Deputy Brian Harris in Fredonia on … Original article on : Reward offered in the search for suspect in killing of Utah deputy in northern Arizona.

Pakistani Taliban’s infighting leaves six dead

PESHAWAR – Six militants were killed in fighting between two Taliban groups in Pakistan’s tribal region Saturday, intelligence officials said.

The clashes erupted when the leaders of two Punjabi Taliban groups argued about the release of former Pakistani intelligence officer Amir Sultan, known by the code name Colonel Imam, who was kidnapped together with another intelligence …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistani Taliban’s infighting leaves six dead.

Co-founder of Islamic charity to face tax fraud and money-laundering charges

Co-founder of Islamic charity goes on trial

ASHLAND, Ore. – The gates are rusted and the American flags are gone from the house on the outskirts of this small tourist town that once served as U.S. headquarters for an Islamic charity that was declared a terrorist organization by the U.S. government.
But despite six years of trying, … Read : Co-founder of Islamic charity to face tax fraud and money-laundering charges.

Imam behind proposed NYC Muslim center, mosque near ground zero struggles to bridge divisions

Imam behind NYC mosque faces divisions over center

NEW YORK – Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf has long worked to bridge divisions, be they fissures between interfaith husbands and wives or political chasms separating the United States and the Muslim world.
The 61-year-old clergyman is now in the midst of a polarizing political, religious and cultural debate over … Original source on Gaea Times at : Imam behind proposed NYC Muslim center, mosque near ground zero struggles to bridge divisions.