Monday, September 06, 2010

Crime Watch – Weekly Newsletter for September 1-6, 2010

Monday, September 6, 2010


Nepal war long over, but 1,300 still missing

KATHMANDU – Four years after a fierce Maoist uprising ended with the loss of over 16,000 lives, thousands of families shattered by the 10-year “People’s War” say they are yet unable to overcome their grief as over 1,300 people remain missing.

As the world Monday observes the International Day of the Disappeared, the raw wounds are … Read : Nepal war long over, but 1,300 still missing.

Hong Kong investigators inspect bullet-peppered hostage bus to ease China’s outrage

Hong Kong police inspect Manila hostage bus

MANILA, Philippines – Hong Kong forensic experts on Monday inspected the bullet-peppered bus in which a hijacker killed eight tourists in Manila last week, as the Philippines worked to calm China’s outrage over the bloodshed.
Anger has been rising in Hong Kong since the Aug. 23 carnage in which a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hong Kong investigators inspect bullet-peppered hostage bus to ease China’s outrage.

Reputation on the line, Clemens heads to Washington for the first of his many days in court

Clemens heads to DC, this time for court
WASHINGTON – On this trip to Washington, Roger Clemens will be in a courtroom, not in Congress. His defiant stance is expected to remain the same, even if his statement is much shorter.

Something along the lines of, “Not guilty.”
The seven-time Cy Young Award winner is scheduled to be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Reputation on the line, Clemens heads to Washington for the first of his many days in court.

ISI has floated new terror outfit, says militant

JAMMU – Pakistan’s spy agency ISI has floated a new terror outfit called Jammu Kashmir Mujahideen (JKM) in an apparent bid to camouflage the activities of the banned terror groups like the Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Toiba, says a militant who surrendered after returning from Pakistan administered Kashmir.

Liyakat Hussain surrendered before the Indian Army at the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Career prosecutor takes charge as DOJ’s elite Public Integrity unit recovers from Stevens case

DOJ’s elite Public Integrity unit gets new leader

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department’s Public Integrity Section has a storied 34-year history of pursuing corruption in government and safeguarding the public trust.
That trust was breached, however, when some of the unit’s prosecutors failed to turn over evidence favorable to the defense in their high-profile criminal trial of …. Source  : Career prosecutor takes charge as DOJ’s elite Public Integrity unit recovers from Stevens case.

Hundreds remember central Kan. teen found dead last week; ‘person of interest’ to be in court

Hundreds attend vigil for slain Kan. teen
GREAT BEND, Kan. – A 14-year-old central Kansas girl whose charred remains were found at an asphalt plant last week was a vivacious teen who loved bright colors and preferred wearing flip flops over any other type of shoes, according to those who knew her.

About 2,000 people turned out …. Read the original article  : here.

Bihar official untraced day after abduction

PATNA – A Bihar government official remained untraced Monday, a day after he had been abducted by armed Maoist guerrillas, police said.

Manoj Kumar Singh, the block development officer of Tariyani in Sheohar district, about 250 km from here, was kidnapped from Tariyani Chhapra village Sunday. He had gone to the village to enquire about voters’ … Read more : Bihar official untraced day after abduction.

Afghan leader urges rethink of ‘ineffective’ anti-terror strategy, criticizes civilian deaths

Afghan president criticizes anti-terror strategy

KABUL, Afghanistan – President Hamid Karzai has again criticized coalition strategy in fighting Afghanistan’s stubborn insurgency, saying it has thus far produced nothing but civilian deaths.
The sharp comments delivered Sunday fit a pattern of greater outspokenness by the Afghan leader as he appeals for support among the beleaguered Afghan public.
In a …. Read the original article  : here.

Maoists kill six security men in Bihar gunfight

PATNA – At least six security personnel were killed by Maoists in a gunfight in a forested area in Bihar’s Lakhisarai district, police said Monday.

Additional Director General of Police (Headquarters) P.K. Thakur said six Bihar Military Police personnel were killed in the gun battle late Sunday with over 100 rebels in the forests of Ghoghraghat … Read : Maoists kill six security men in Bihar gunfight.

Mexican president: Mayor slain in violence-plagued border state of Tamaulipas

Mayor in violent Mexican border state killed

NUEVO LAREDO, Mexico – Gunmen killed the mayor of a town in the drug-plagued Mexican border state of Tamaulipas on Sunday in a region where suspected cartel hitmen recently massacred 72 migrants, the government said.
Hidalgo Mayor Marco Antonio Leal Garcia was the second mayor to be assassinated in the …. Source  : Mexican president: Mayor slain in violence-plagued border state of Tamaulipas.

French ‘Spiderman’ arrested after scaling 57-story Sydney skyscraper with his bare hands

‘Spiderman’ arrested for scaling Sydney skyscraper

SYDNEY – A French skyscraper climber nicknamed “Spiderman” was arrested Monday after scaling a 57-story building in Sydney with his bare hands.
Alain Robert, known for climbing some of the world’s tallest and best-known buildings without ropes or other equipment, was arrested at the top of the Lumiere building downtown.
He climbed … Original source on Gaea Times at : French ‘Spiderman’ arrested after scaling 57-story Sydney skyscraper with his bare hands.

Shootings in Central California leave Mormon church official, suspect dead

Shootings leaves Mormon official, suspect dead

VISALIA, Calif. – A gunman killed a Mormon church official after a church service Sunday, then police fatally wounded the man suspected in the attack less than a half-hour later, officials said.
Clay Sannar, 42, a lay bishop with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Visalia, southeast of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Shootings in Central California leave Mormon church official, suspect dead.

Federal agents probe fire at site of proposed Tenn. mosque that’s faced strong opposition

Fire at proposed Tenn. mosque site probed by feds

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Supporters from across the country have called to give encouragement to a suburban Nashville mosque where a fire was the latest setback for a planned new building, officials said Sunday.
Authorities told mosque officials that four pieces of heavy construction equipment on the site were … Read : Federal agents probe fire at site of proposed Tenn. mosque that’s faced strong opposition.

Lay bishop at Mormon church in Central Calif. fatally shot in office between Sunday services

Lay bishop fatally shot at Mormon church in Calif.

VISALIA, Calif. – An investigation is under way after authorities say a lay bishop at a Mormon church in Central California was fatally shot in his office during a break between scheduled Sunday services.
Police say Clay Sannar was shot at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day …. Source  : Lay bishop at Mormon church in Central Calif. fatally shot in office between Sunday services.

Mexico’s govt to up security following blasts in border city; massacre investigation continues

Mexico to up security in border city after blasts

NUEVO LAREDO, Mexico – Mexico’s government on Sunday promised to increase security after a series of explosive devices were detonated in the border city of Reynosa, and officials said they would step up efforts to identify more of the 72 migrants massacred last week in the same …. Read the original article  : Mexico’s govt to up security following blasts in border city; massacre investigation continues.

Las Vegas police suspect rise in murder-suicides tied to economy; 5 cases so far this month

Las Vegas logs 5 murder-suicides since Aug. 7

LAS VEGAS – Police say murder-suicides are on the rise in the Las Vegas area because of a bad economy.
Las Vegas police say there were five murder-suicides from Aug. 7 to Aug. 20 for a total of 10 victims.
A gun was used in each case. In four of …. Original source  : Las Vegas police suspect rise in murder-suicides tied to economy; 5 cases so far this month.

Arizona police say gunman enters home and kills 5, then fatally shoots self in Calif.

Arizona police say gunman kills 5, then self

LAKE HAVASU CITY, Ariz. – A gunman entered a western Arizona home and fatally shot five people, including the mother of his two children and her new boyfriend, before fleeing with the kids to Southern California where he killed himself, police said Sunday.
The shootings late Saturday occurred as … Read : Arizona police say gunman enters home and kills 5, then fatally shoots self in Calif..

Sheriff calling in reinforcements in search for suspect in killing of Utah deputy

More crews to hunt for Utah fugitive
SALT LAKE CITY – More law enforcement teams were being called in Sunday to hunt down a man accused of killing a Utah sheriff’s deputy.

Scott Curley has eluded authorities for three days and was believed to be hiding in the wilderness or in communities near the Arizona-Utah line.
On Sunday, …. Original source  : Sheriff calling in reinforcements in search for suspect in killing of Utah deputy.

Official: 2 of Alaska village’s 3 officers fatally shot; authorities in standoff with suspect

2 police officers fatally shot in Alaska village

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A standoff was under way Sunday in a tiny southeast Alaska village after a man fatally shot two of the village’s four full-time police officers the night before, then barricaded himself in his home, local officials said.
Hoonah police officers Tony Wallace and Matt Tokuoka died …. Read the original article  : Official: 2 of Alaska village’s 3 officers fatally shot; authorities in standoff with suspect.

Bomb blast kills two soldiers in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least two security personnel were killed and several others injured Sunday morning in a bomb blast in northwest Pakistan.

One vehicle was also destroyed in the remote-controlled blast at a security checkpoint that occurred in Bara sub-district of the Khyber Agency bordering Afghanistan, sources told Xinhua.
No group has so far claimed … Read more : Bomb blast kills two soldiers in Pakistan.

Panel: India must create new reserves, control poaching to protect elephants

Panel: India must create more elephant reserves

NEW DELHI – India should protect its elephant population by creating new reserves, curbing poaching and restricting development in the corridors they use to travel between forested areas, a panel recommended Tuesday.
Poaching for ivory and increased conflicts between people and elephants due to their dwindling habitat are key problems … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Panel: India must create new reserves, control poaching to protect elephants.

Dutch authorities question 2 men arrested at request of US at Amsterdam’s airport

Dutch question 2 men in suspected US terror probe

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Dutch investigators on Tuesday questioned two men arrested at Amsterdam’s airport after U.S. authorities found suspicious items in their checked luggage, including a cell phone taped to a Pepto-Bismol bottle and a knife and box cutter.
The pair were arrested Monday morning at Schiphol … Read more : Dutch authorities question 2 men arrested at request of US at Amsterdam’s airport.

Los Angeles man arrested on suspicion of murder in West Hollywood triple homicide

LA man arrested in West Hollywood triple homicide

LOS ANGELES – A man found with “multiple pounds” of marijuana has been arrested in the shooting deaths of three men in a West Hollywood apartment, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said.
Harold Yong Park, 31, of Los Angeles, was arrested Monday during a traffic stop in Lomita, …. Original source  : Los Angeles man arrested on suspicion of murder in West Hollywood triple homicide.

Fatal bear attack highlights Ohio’s lax laws on exotic pets and high number of fatal attacks

Bear attack highlights lax Ohio exotic pet laws

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The bear that recently killed a caretaker in a Cleveland suburb was the latest example of animal violence in a state that has some of the nation’s weakest restrictions on exotic pets and among the highest number of injuries and deaths caused by them.
After a …. Original article  : Fatal bear attack highlights Ohio’s lax laws on exotic pets and high number of fatal attacks.

CIA chief Panetta’s star turn on ‘Top Chef’ part of campaign to preserve agency’s power

CIA chief spices up spy shop’s image on reality TV
WASHINGTON – Around a long table in a windowless room, the CIA officials awaited the decision from their director, Leon Panetta.
“A little too salty,” the CIA chief finally said, giving thumbs down to the dish prepared by a warring team of cooks from the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : CIA chief Panetta’s star turn on ‘Top Chef’ part of campaign to preserve agency’s power.

Ex-bin Laden aide not required to be in NYC court when resentenced for stabbing guard in 2000

Ex-bin Laden aide to be a no-show at resentencing

NEW YORK – A federal judge poised to resentence a former top aide to Osama bin Laden in the stabbing of a prison guard has agreed to let the inmate appear on a video monitor from prison.
Judge Deborah Batts is scheduled to resentence Mamdouh Mahmud Salim on …. Read the original article  : here.

Rudy Giuliani’s daughter due in New York City court in cosmetics shoplifting case

Rudy Giuliani’s daughter due in NYC court
NEW YORK – Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s (joo-lee-AH’-neez) daughter is scheduled to make her first court appearance since being arrested on a shoplifting charge at a cosmetics store.

Caroline Giuliani is due in a Manhattan court Tuesday. Police have said the 20-year-old Harvard University student was seen … Read more >>>.

Russian embassy in Belarus attacked

Moscow, Aug 31 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The Russian embassy in the Belarusian capital of Minsk was attacked with fire bombs by unidentified attackers late Monday but there were no casualties, an official said Tuesday.

“At around 10.50 p.m. (1950 GMT), two fire bombs were thrown into the territory of the Russian embassy,” a spokesman said. “One of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Russian embassy in Belarus attacked.

Purported Texas-born drug kingpin ‘the Barbie’ captured by federal police in central Mexico

Mexico captures reported drug lord ‘the Barbie’

MEXICO CITY – Texas-born fugitive Edgar Valdez Villarreal, alias “the Barbie,” is the third major suspected drug lord to fall in Mexico in the past 10 months and a coup for President Felipe Calderon in his embattled war on powerful cartels.
Valdez, who got his improbable nickname from his fair …. Source article  : Purported Texas-born drug kingpin ‘the Barbie’ captured by federal police in central Mexico.

Cops were killed in retaliation, Maoists say

PATNA – The six-hour-long gunfight in Bihar’s Lakhisarai district, in which 10 policemen were killed and 10 others were injured, was in retaliation to the staged shootout that left Maoist leader Azad and a journalist dead, guerrillas said Tuesday.

“The attack was in retailiation to the fake encounter of Azad and a journalist sympathetic to Maoist … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cops were killed in retaliation, Maoists say.

Edgar “La Barbie” Valdez Villarreal Arrested

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (GaeaTimes.com)- On Monday, the Mexican President Felipe Calderon’s war against drug traffickers got a major boost when the Mexican authorities captured ruthless drug lord, American-born Edgar Valdez Villarreal who is better known as “La Barbie“. The federal police confirmed the news to media sources and maintained that the officers captured Edgar Valdez …. Original article  : Edgar “La Barbie” Valdez Villarreal Arrested.

He is innocent, abducted official’s family tells Maoists

PATNA – The wife and son of an abducted Bihar government official Tuesday asked Maoist guerrillas to release him from capitivity as he was innocent and pro-poor.

Manoj Kumar Singh, the block development officer of Tariyani in Sheohar district, about 250 km from here, was abducted from Tariyani Chhapra village Sunday. He had gone to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : He is innocent, abducted official’s family tells Maoists.

Calif. inmate hangs self less than week after judge commutes death sentence

Man hangs self days after death sentence lifted

SAN QUENTIN, Calif. – A 70-year-old California inmate who had just had his death sentence lifted has hanged himself in his cell less than a week after the reprieve.
San Quentin State Prison spokesman Lt. Sam Robinson said that a guard found George Smithey on Saturday hanging from a … Read more : Calif. inmate hangs self less than week after judge commutes death sentence.

Lindsay Lohan talks trial, talent and past drug use in October issue of Vanity Fair

Lohan talks trial, talent, drug use in Vanity Fair

NEW YORK – Lindsay Lohan wants your respect.
In the upcoming issue of Vanity Fair, the 24-year-old actress admits making mistakes in the past and “dabbling in certain things.”
But in a July interview with the magazine before she served 14 days in jail followed by 23 days of …. Read the original article  : Lindsay Lohan talks trial, talent and past drug use in October issue of Vanity Fair.

California man accused of torturing, kidnapping girlfriend in rage over Facebook message

Man accused of torturing woman over Facebook post

HANFORD, Calif. – Authorities say a California man jealous over a message on his girlfriend’s Facebook page tortured and imprisoned her for four days while their children were in the house.
Kings County sheriff’s deputies arrested 36-year-old Anthony Lozano at his Hanford home over the weekend on suspicion of …. Read the original article  : here.

Developer says Islamic center planned near ground zero should be known as ‘hub of coexistence’

Developer behind NYC mosque talks about his vision
NEW YORK – The developer behind an Islamic cultural center and mosque planned near ground zero says it never occurred to him that building it near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks would stir up so much debate.
Sharif El-Gamal told CBS News in an … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Developer says Islamic center planned near ground zero should be known as ‘hub of coexistence’.

Los Angeles sheriff’s deputies say suspect arrested in West Hollywood triple homicide

Suspect arrested in West Hollywood triple homicide

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles man suspected of shooting three men to death in a West Hollywood apartment was arrested by sheriff’s investigators during a traffic stop Monday, authorities said.
Investigators believe Harold Yong Park stole “multiple pounds” of marijuana from the victims, who were buying pot from recognized …. Read the original article  : here.

Obama to mark Iraq transition with major address

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama was to mark the formal end of the US combat role in Iraq with a visit Tuesday to a Texas military base and a major evening televised address.

Obama is expected to hail the transition to an Iraqi-led, civilian-led effort as a major milestone in the seven-year US war effort. …. Source article  : Obama to mark Iraq transition with major address.

Authorities: Hells Angels leader indicted on gun charge after arrest in Colorado

Hells Angels VP indicted in Colo. on gun charge

DENVER – Authorities say a leader in the Hells Angels motorcycle gang has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Denver on a firearms charge.
The U.S. attorney’s office said Monday that 44-year-old Richard West of New York, also known as Richard Kearney, was indicted on the … Read more >>>.

Mexico’s attorney general says Texas-born durg kingpin ‘the Barbie’ has been captured

Mexico says drug lord ‘the Barbie’ captured

MEXICO CITY – Federal police on Monday captured a long-sought, alleged Texas-born gang kingpin who faces drug trafficking charges in the U.S. and has been blamed for a vicious turf war that has included bodies hung from bridges and shootouts in central Mexico.
The announcement came just hours after the … Read : Mexico’s attorney general says Texas-born durg kingpin ‘the Barbie’ has been captured.

Maoists torch vehicles, thrash ex-legislator’s relative

RANCHI – Maoists torched three vehicles and thrashed a relative of a former Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) legislator in Jharkhand’s Latehar district Wednesday, police said.

About 20 rebels raided Barihatu village, around 140 km from here, and set three cars on fire by sprinkling patrol on them. They later beat up an uncle of Prakash Ram, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists torch vehicles, thrash ex-legislator’s relative.

Pakistani jets kill 10 civilians, dozens of militants

ISLAMABAD – At least 10 civilians were among 40 people killed when jet fighters and gunship helicopters targeted rebel hideouts in Pakistan’s tribal region near the Afghan border, security officials said Wednesday.

The attacks were carried out Tuesday in the Tirah Valley of Khyber Agency, one of the seven tribal districts, where government forces are battling …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hamas says 150 members arrested in Palestinian crackdown in wake of West Bank shooting

Hamas: 150 members arrested in wake of shooting

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Hamas officials in the West Bank say 150 members of the Islamic militant group have been arrested in an overnight raid by Palestinian security forces following a shooting attack that killed four Israelis.
Hamas claimed responsibility for the Tuesday attack near the West Bank city …. Original source  : Hamas says 150 members arrested in Palestinian crackdown in wake of West Bank shooting.

Katja Puschnik is the Girl Who Throws Puppies in River

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Web is flooded with the news ‘Girls Throwing puppies into river’ since yesterday. In Twitter people were constantly tweeting on the cruel activity done by a teen girl. Although the identity of the girl is still unknown, a video of her unkind act has been surfaced into the net today. … Read : Katja Puschnik is the Girl Who Throws Puppies in River.

NLFT guerrillas abduct five Tripura farmers

AGARTALA – Separatist guerrillas have abducted five tribal villagers in northern Tripura and demanded that each household in their village cough up a sum of Rs.1,000 for their release, police said here Wednesday.

Militants of the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) kidnapped the farmers Sunday night from Boalkhali, a tribal hamlet in northern Tripura’s Dhalai … Read more : NLFT guerrillas abduct five Tripura farmers.

Air India bomber faces fresh trial next week

VANCOUVER – Air India Kanishka bombing convict Inderjit Singh Reyat, who was released last year after spending 15 years in jail, faces a fresh perjury trial from Sep 9. If convicted, he faces another 14 years in jail.

Reyat was the only person jailed in the 1985 Air India bombing by Khalistani extremists to avenge the …. Read the original article  : Air India bomber faces fresh trial next week.

Police in central Indonesia kill 5 villagers ransacking station to protest death in custody

Indonesian police kill 5 villagers ransacking post

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Police killed five villagers as dozens of people ransacked a station in central Indonesia to protest a person’s death in custody.
Brig. Gen. Amin Saleh said Wednesday more than 100 villagers – some carrying rocks and Molotov cocktails – converged on the police post in Buol district …. Original article  : Police in central Indonesia kill 5 villagers ransacking station to protest death in custody.

Captured Mexico drug kingpin ‘the Barbie’ says in video he knew top capos, transported cocaine

Video: Captured Mexican drug lord knew top capos

MEXICO CITY – A former Texas high school football player and petty street dealer who allegedly rose to become one of Mexico’s most savage assassins says he personally knew the country’s top drug lords and shipped cocaine from Colombia through Panama.
In a video released by Mexico’s federal police, …. Source article  : Captured Mexico drug kingpin ‘the Barbie’ says in video he knew top capos, transported cocaine.

Dr. Jacquelyn Kotarac’s Body Found In Chimney

BAKERSFIELD (GaeaTimes.com)- A California doctor named Jacquelyn Kotarac died a tragic death when in a desperate attempt to get into her boyfriend’s house she took the path of the chimney opening and got stuck. The decomposing body of Dr. Jacquelyn Kotarac was discovered by the house-sitter after three days, on Saturday. Although the exact …. Original article  : Dr. Jacquelyn Kotarac’s Body Found In Chimney.

Massacre reveals hidden toll of Central American migrants killed crossing Mexico to the US

72 dead migrants found in Mexico tip of iceberg

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador – Paula Cruz wept quietly at the foreign ministry office in El Salvador’s capital after reporting that her son was missing – apparently kidnapped – in Mexico.
“I got a phone call asking me to send $2,500 to ransom him,” the 77-year-old mother said, …. Source article  : Massacre reveals hidden toll of Central American migrants killed crossing Mexico to the US.

Investigators say south Texas man killed wife, mother-in-law, third woman, then himself

Police: South Texas man killed 3 women, self

RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas – A south Texas man shot and killed his wife, her mother and another woman Tuesday evening before turning the gun on himself, police said.
Investigators suspect Francisco Pinal shot and killed Lydia Pinal, his wife of more than 20 years, then killed Rosa Alaniz, …. Original article  : Investigators say south Texas man killed wife, mother-in-law, third woman, then himself.

Australian mother, convicted twice, sentenced to 27 years for drugging, killing two young sons

Aussie mom jailed 27 years for killing two sons

MELBOURNE, Australia – An Australian mother twice convicted of killing her two young sons was sentenced to 27 years in prison on Wednesday for what the judge called “the greatest act of betrayal.”
Donna Fitchett was first convicted in 2008 of murdering her sons in 2005 and sentenced …. Read the original article  : here.

Imam behind planned mosque near ground zero on way back to NY, State Dept. says

State Dept.: New York imam heading back to US

WASHINGTON – The State Department says the imam leading plans for an Islamic center near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York is returning to the United States on Wednesday.
State Department spokesman Mark Toner says Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf has completed a Persian Gulf … Read more : Imam behind planned mosque near ground zero on way back to NY, State Dept. says.

Federal agents descend on egg farms at center of recall for second time

Federal agents descend on egg farms for 2nd time

WASHINGTON – Federal agents have descended for a second time on Wright County Egg and Hillandale Farms, the two Iowa farms at the center of a salmonella outbreak and massive egg recall.
Spokeswomen for the farms said the agents who arrived Tuesday worked for the Food and Drug …. Source article  : Federal agents descend on egg farms at center of recall for second time.

Terrorism expert says Islamic charities sent money to Caucasus that reached fighters

Expert: Charities sent money to Islamic fighters

EUGENE, Ore. – An expert witness for the prosecution testified Tuesday that Islamic charities based in Saudi Arabia, including the one an Oregon tree surgeon is accused of smuggling money for, were regular conduits of funding to Muslim fighters in the volatile Caucasus region.
But under cross examination, international terrorism … Read more »»».

Libya releases 37 militant Islamists

TRIPOLI – An ex-Guantanamo detainee and 36 other militant Islamists were released from prison in Libya, according to a charity organisation Tuesday.

The release was announced in the capital by the charity foundation of Seif al-Islam al-Gaddafi, one of the sons of Libyan leader Muammer Gaddafi.
The foundation said the prisoners had corrected their ways through …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Libya releases 37 militant Islamists.

Four Israelis killed in West Bank attack

GAZA – Two days before the resumption of direct peace talks between Israel and Palestine in Washington, four Israelis were killed in an attack near the West Bank town of Hebron Tuesday and the armed wing of the Islamic Hamas movement claimed responsibility for the shooting.

Four Israelis, including two women, one of them pregnant, … Read more »»».

Lone survivor in AZ shooting says she was hit in neck, wasn’t sure if others were breathing

Survivor in western AZ shooting in good condition

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – A woman who survived a weekend shooting that left five people dead in western Arizona told a 911 dispatcher that she was shot in the neck and wasn’t sure whether others around her were breathing.
Deborah Nyland, 44, was listed in good condition Tuesday at Sunrise … Read more »»».

Obama declares end to US combat operations in Iraq

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama Tuesday declared an end to the US combat mission in Iraq, more than seven years after the US-led invasion of the Middle Eastern country.

In live address from the White House less than two weeks after the last US combat brigade left Iraq, Obama said it was time for Iraqis … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama declares end to US combat operations in Iraq.

Obama remarks on Iraq as provided by White House

Obama remarks on Iraq as provided by White House
Remarks by President Barack Obama on the end of combat operations in Iraq, as provided by the White House.
Good evening. Tonight, I’d like to talk to you about the end of our combat mission in Iraq, the ongoing security challenges we face, and the need …. Source article  : Obama remarks on Iraq as provided by White House.

Maritime group urges Indonesia to increase anti-piracy patrols after spike in attacks

Indonesia urged to increase anti-piracy patrols

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – An international maritime group urged Indonesia on Thursday to increase patrols in the South China Sea after pirates attacked nine vessels in less than three weeks.
The International Maritime Bureau said pirates armed with guns and machetes had robbed tankers and bulk carriers of cash and other … Read more »»».

American expat jailed for ‘milkshake murder’ to ask judge to stop retrial, dismiss case

US ‘milkshake murder’ convict seeks case dismissal

HONG KONG – The expatriate American housewife who won a retrial after being convicted of murdering of her banker husband in Hong Kong with a drugged milkshake and a blow to the head will ask a judge to dismiss the case against her, a lawyer said Thursday.
Nancy Kissel was … Read more >>.

Chicago’s top cop criticized for ‘gang summit,’ but other departments say tactic effective

Chicago police chief criticized for ‘gang summit’

CHICAGO – The idea seemed simple though bold: Call reputed gang leaders to a meeting with top police and federal prosecutors and deliver an ultimatum to end killings in the nation’s third-largest city.
But Chicago police Superintendent Jody Weis is facing mounting criticism for holding a so-called “gang summit” last …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Discovery Channel Hostages Unhurt, Gunman Shot Dead

SILVER SPRING (GaeaTimes.com)- The Police on Wednesday shot a gunman to death who had reportedly taken three people of the Discovery Channel headquarters hostage at gunpoint. After hours of negotiations and persuasions failed to make any impact on the gunman, who broke into the Discovery Channel’s headquarters with at least one explosive device tucked … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Discovery Channel Hostages Unhurt, Gunman Shot Dead.

Lahore wears deserted look a day after serial blasts

LAHORE – A day after three back-to-back blasts by militant outfit Lashkar-i-Islami in a Shia congregation in Lahore killed at least 35 people and wounded over 200, the city in Pakistan’s Punjab province wore a deserted look Thursday while traders have declared a three-day mourning.

A mass funeral of the dead would be held at 2 …. Source  : Lahore wears deserted look a day after serial blasts.

Maoists to decide fate of kidnapped Bihar cops at ‘people’s court’

PATNA – Maoists in Bihar Thursday said they would decide the fate of four captive policemen at a ‘jan adalat’ or kangaroo court, as the second deadline set by them to release eight of their jailed leaders had expired.

Maoist spokesperson Avinash called up local TV channels and said the fate of the policemen [..] Read the original article: here.

US warns citizens of terror strike during CWG

WASHINGTON – The US has warned its citizens travelling to or residing in India during the upcoming Commonwealth Games of a threat of “terrorist action and violence” and asked them to “take care when travelling within Delhi”.

“The US Mission in India alerts US citizens travelling to or residing in India to safety and security issues …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US warns citizens of terror strike during CWG.

Worried families of abducted policemen pray for release

PATNA – The families of four Bihar policemen abducted by Maoists are worried and helpless as the deadline for releasing eight jailed commanders expires 10 a.m Thursday, failing which they have threatened to kill those in captivity.

Maoists abducted the policemen during a six-hour-long gunfight in Lakhisarai district Sunday. The gun battle left seven policemen killed …. Read the original article  : Worried families of abducted policemen pray for release.

Arrest reported after manhunt shuts down freeway in Everett, Wash., area for hours

Arrest made after manhunt shuts down Wash. freeway

EVERETT, Wash. – Officers in Everett, Wash., have made an arrest in an area that was the scene of a Wednesday evening manhunt that at one point closed all lanes of Interstate 5, backing up commuter traffic for miles.
The arrest of one man was reported shortly before 8 … Original source on Gaea Times at : Arrest reported after manhunt shuts down freeway in Everett, Wash., area for hours.

Pakistani Taliban added to US terror list

WASHINGTON – The United States has designated the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), or Pakistani Taliban, linked to the botched Times Square bombing attempt by a Pakistani American, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Wednesday also designated two senior TTP leaders Hakimullah Mehsud and Wali Ur Rehman as specially designated global terrorists as … Original article on : Pakistani Taliban added to US terror list.

Calderon’s state of nation report cites gains in security, economic growth for Mexico

Calderon: Mexico shows gains in security, economy

MEXICO CITY – President Felipe Calderon delivered his latest “state of the nation” report to Congress on Wednesday, saying Mexico has made gains in security and is enjoying its strongest economic growth in a dozen years.
The report came days after Calderon conceded there has been a surge in drug-related …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Colorado woman held hostage by escaped prisoner talks about experience

Colo. woman held by escapee talks about experience

DENVER – Liz Reynolds says life is getting back to normal a week after an escaped prisoner held her hostage in her home on Colorado’s eastern plains.
Reynolds told Denver’s KUSA-TV says she was doing her normal chores around her home near Yuma Aug. 25 when she walked back … Read more »»».

Portrait of confusion: NYC woman says co-owner of missing $1.3M painting is admitted art thief

Co-owner of painting missing in NY ID’d as a thief

NEW YORK – First it was a curious tale of a $1.3 million painting a middleman said he drunkenly lost while trying to help a friend sell it.
Now the story has gotten stranger still: A part owner of the canvas identified its co-owner as an admitted …. Original source  : Portrait of confusion: NYC woman says co-owner of missing $1.3M painting is admitted art thief.

Two Israelis injured in West Bank attack

JERUSALEM – Two Israelis were wounded Wednesday night in a shooting attack in the West Bank, media reports said.

The victims, a man and a woman, were travelling in a car when they were shot at 11 p.m. local time (2000 GMT). The man was in critical condition and the woman sustained light injury, Xinhua … Read more >>>.

Feds review whether forest ranger whose tip led to capture of Ariz. fugitives can get reward

Reward in question for ranger in escapee’s capture

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – The U.S. Forest Service is reviewing whether an eastern Arizona ranger whose tip led to the capture of two of the most wanted fugitives in America can receive $27,500 in reward money under the agency’s ethics guidelines.
Apache Sitgreaves National Forest spokeswoman Pam Baltimore said Wednesday …. Source  : Feds review whether forest ranger whose tip led to capture of Ariz. fugitives can get reward.

Prosecutors: Not enough evidence for charges following death of Ariz. inmate in outdoor cage

No charges in Ariz. inmate’s death in cage

PHOENIX – There will be no criminal charges following the heat-related death of an Arizona inmate who collapsed in an outdoor cage last year.
Bill Fitzgerald, a spokesman for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, said Wednesday there wasn’t enough evidence to prosecute the case.
Fitzgerald says the Department of Corrections … Read more »»».

Schools chief suspends license of Wash. teacher convicted of inappropriately touching girls

State suspends license of teacher in Wash. state

SEATTLE – Washington state’s schools chief on Wednesday suspended the teaching certificate of a teacher convicted of inappropriately touching girls and then brought back into the classroom after a short suspension.
The state investigation of Morton teacher Michael Moulton is complete, and the evidence clearly shows that he has …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Schools chief suspends license of Wash. teacher convicted of inappropriately touching girls.

Mo., Premium Standard reach deal giving hog giant to 2012 to install technology to cut odors

Mo., Premium Standard reach deal on hog odor issue

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Premium Standard Farms has been given a two-year extension to install technology at its hog confinements to reduce odors after it failed to meet a July 31 deadline established by a Jackson County court six years ago.
As part of the deal between the …. Read the original article  : Mo., Premium Standard reach deal giving hog giant to 2012 to install technology to cut odors.

What Did The Discovery Gunman Say in Savetheplanetprotest?

SILVER SPRINGS (GaeaTimes.com) — The shocking Discovery channel hostage situation has cone to an equally climactic end. The perpetrator James Jay lee was shot by the Police as he took aim of a hostage. In a more troubling revelation the Gunman had a website up and running titled savetheplanetprotest.com where he laid down in …. Original source  : What Did The Discovery Gunman Say in Savetheplanetprotest?.

Jordan’s King Abdullah says failure of peace talks would be a victory for terrorists

Jordan’s king: Terrorists want to derail talks
WASHINGTON – Jordan’s King Abdullah II suggests that failure of new peace talks between Isarel and the Palestinians would be a victory for terrorists seeking to derail the process.
All eyes are upon us, Abdullah said. He praised President Barack Obama for serving as an “honest broker and … Read more »».

Kidnapped cop Tete’s body found in Bihar forest (Third Lead)

PATNA – The bullet-riddled body of Lucas Tete, one of the four Bihar policemen abducted by Maoists five days ago, was found in a forest Friday, a day after the rebels claimed to have killed sub-inspector Abhay Kumar Yadav, police said.

The body found in a forest in Lakhisarai district is of Lucas Tete and not … Original article on : Kidnapped cop Tete’s body found in Bihar forest (Third Lead).

James looks to put troubled offseason in past, prove last year wasn’t fluke for No. 11 Oregon

Oregon RB James eager for fresh start
EUGENE, Ore. – The past year has been both amazing and awful – and everything in between – for LaMichael James.

Last season the running back was thrust into a starting role for the Ducks as a redshirt freshman and surpassed all expectations. Then in the offseason, he was arrested …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : James looks to put troubled offseason in past, prove last year wasn’t fluke for No. 11 Oregon.

Crowds attack home of Iranian opposition leader with homemade bombs, wound bodyguard

Crowds attack home of Iranian opposition leader

TEHRAN, Iran – Pro-government militiamen attacked the home of an Iranian opposition leader with homemade bombs and beat one of his bodyguards unconscious, an opposition website reported, in an apparent attempt to keep him from attending a key rally on Friday.
Mahdi Karroubi’s guards had to fire gunshots in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Crowds attack home of Iranian opposition leader with homemade bombs, wound bodyguard.

Policeman killed in Peshawar blast (Second Lead)

PESHAWAR – A powerful explosion near a police van in Pakistan’s Peshawar city left one policeman dead and three injured Friday, two days after horrific serial blasts in Lahore killed 35 people.

The police mobile van that was on the Ring Road in Achini Bala area on the outskirts of Peshawar was heavily damaged in the [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Maoists aiming to demolish morale of forces’

NEW DELHI – Maoists are aiming to “demolish the morale” of security personnel, a home ministry official said Friday after the guerrillas killed one of the four policemen they had abducted in Bihar five days ago.

“It is a disturbing trend. It is a move to demolish the morale of the forces,” a senior home … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Maoists aiming to demolish morale of forces’.

Backpage Gets Pimp Busted

NASHVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- Backpage led to the arrest of a pimp after he posted an ad for escorts and tried to force two teenage girls into prostitution. Undercover detectives responded to the advertisement on the ad portal and then set up a meeting in a motel in Nashville. Once the girls agreed to have sex for … Read : Backpage Gets Pimp Busted.

Cop Lucas Tete belonged to poor Jharkhand tribal family

RANCHI – Lucas Tete, the policeman whose body was found in Bihar Friday, five days after he was abducted along with three other cops by Maoists, hailed from a poor tribal family in Jharkhand’s Simdega district.

Tete is the second policeman from Jharkhand who has been killed in captivity. Francis Induwar, a special branch inspector, was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cop Lucas Tete belonged to poor Jharkhand tribal family.

Abducted Bihar cop Lucas Tete’s body found in forest (Second Lead)

PATNA – The body of Lucas Tete, one of the four Bihar policemen abducted by Maoists five days ago, was found in a forest Friday, a day after the rebels claimed to have killed Sub Inspector Abhay Kumar Yadav, police said.

The body found in a forest in Lakhisarai district is of Lucas Tete and not … Read : Abducted Bihar cop Lucas Tete’s body found in forest (Second Lead).

Clash between soldiers, gunmen in northern Mexico leaves 25 suspected cartel members dead

Mexico: Soldiers kill 25 in troubled border state

MONTERREY, Mexico – Soldiers killed at least 25 suspected cartel members Thursday in a raid and gunbattle in a Mexican state near the U.S. border that has become one of the most dangerous battlegrounds in the country’s drug war.
A military aircraft flying over Ciudad Mier in Tamaulipas state [..] Read the original article: here.

Two cops hurt in Peshawar blast (Lead, Changing dateline)

PESHAWAR – A powerful explosion in this Pakistani city extensively damaged a police van, injuring two policemen Friday, two days after the blasts in Lahore that killed 35 people.

The police mobile van that was on Ring Road in Achini Bala area was heavily damaged, Dawn reported.
On Wednesday, three back-to-back blasts in Lahore killed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two cops hurt in Peshawar blast (Lead, Changing dateline).

Bethany Storro Talks About Assailant

VANCOUVER (GaeaTimes.com)- Bethany Storro became the center of media attention after the reports of the gruesome acid attack on the 28 year old started emerging. Bethany Storro and her mother were heading to a Starbucks on Monday when an unknown woman walked up to her and threw a cup of acid on her face. … Read : Bethany Storro Talks About Assailant.

Abducted cop Lucas Gete’s body found in Bihar forest

PATNA – The body of Lucas Gete, one of the four policemen abducted by Maoist guerrillas five days ago, was found in a Bihar forest Friday, a day after the rebels claimed to have killed Sub-Inspector Abhay Kumar Yadav, police said.

The body found in a forest in Lakhisarai district is of Lucas Gete and not … Read more »».

Body in Bihar forest not Abhay, but Lucas: police

PATNA – The body found in a Bihar forest was of Lucas Gete, one of the four policemen abducted by Maoist guerrillas five days ago, and not of Abhay Kumar Yadav as reported earlier, Deputy Inspector General of Munger Shah Rukh Majeed confirmed Friday.
Read : Body in Bihar forest not Abhay, but Lucas: police.

Nitish calls all-party meet over Maoist deadline

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has called an all-party meeting Saturday to discuss the Maoist deadline set for releasing their eight jailed commanders and the rebels’ claim that they had killed one of the four policeman they had abducted, sources in the chief minister’s office said.

The opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) had appealed … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nitish calls all-party meet over Maoist deadline.

Snakes in a bag: Malaysian smuggler guilty over 95 live boas found in burst luggage at airport

95 snakes found in burst bag at Malaysia airport

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian man pleaded guilty to wildlife smuggling after his bag bursting with 95 live boa constrictors broke open on a luggage conveyer belt at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, an official said Friday.
Keng Liang “Anson” Wong, 52, who was previously convicted of wildlife … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Snakes in a bag: Malaysian smuggler guilty over 95 live boas found in burst luggage at airport.

Dallas-area man wounded in shooting in which 2 children are charged, wife was killed has died

Texas youths could face new charge after man dies

DALLAS – Officials say a suburban Dallas man critically wounded in a shooting last month in which two children are charged has died.
The man’s wife, 46-year-old Darlene Nevil, was killed in the shooting two weeks ago.
The Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office says 48-year-old Alan Nevil died Thursday …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Dallas-area man wounded in shooting in which 2 children are charged, wife was killed has died.

French ‘Spiderman’ pleads not guilty after scaling Sydney skyscraper with his bare hands

French ‘Spider-Man’ in Sydney court over climb

SYDNEY – A French skyscraper climber nicknamed “Spider-Man” pleaded not guilty Friday to charges related to his bare-handed climb up a 57-story building in downtown Sydney.
Alain Robert, known for climbing some of the world’s tallest and best-known buildings without ropes or other equipment, was arrested Monday at the top … Read more : French ‘Spiderman’ pleads not guilty after scaling Sydney skyscraper with his bare hands.

Abducted Bihar cop’s body found

PATNA – A day after Maoists claimed to have killed Sub-Inspector Abhay Kumar Yadav, the body of the abducted Bihar policeman was found near a forest in Lakhisarai district early Friday, media reports said.

According to local news channels, Yadav’s body was found near Simratali forest under Chanan police station in Lakhisarai.
Yadav was killed …. Read the original article  : Abducted Bihar cop’s body found.

Warrants: Man, pregnant wife stabbed to death at Calif. beach house while son hid behind couch

Warrants detail stabbings at Calif. beach house

VENTURA, Calif. – A 9-year-old boy ran to get cash from his mother’s purse to appease an armed intruder, but when he returned the man was stabbing his parents with a kitchen knife in the bedroom, according to recently released search warrants in the triple murder case.
The documents provide … Read : Warrants: Man, pregnant wife stabbed to death at Calif. beach house while son hid behind couch.

Mother of kidnap victim Jaycee Dugard may have to go to court to get state damages

Courts could get claim in Jaycee Dugard kidnapping

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The board that considers compensation for California crime victims is being advised to reject a claim by the mother of Jaycee Dugard, who authorities say was held captive for nearly two decades by a paroled rapist.
Lynn Margherita, spokeswoman for the Victim Compensation and Government Claims … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mother of kidnap victim Jaycee Dugard may have to go to court to get state damages.

Maoists kill school teacher in West Bengal

KOLKATA – A school teacher, who was a member of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), was Saturday shot dead by Maoists in West Bengal’s West Midnapore distruct, police said.

Dibakur Mahato, a CPI-M member of Aguboni local committee and a teacher of Salboni Primary school, was shot dead during school hours Saturday morning, said Superintendent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists kill school teacher in West Bengal.

Afghan withdrawal date ‘emboldens’ Taliban

LONDON – A report, endorsed by an American defence expert and retired general, has claimed that the US and Britain’s decision to set a troops withdrawal date for Afghanistan “emboldens” the Taliban to fight on.

Gen Jack Keane, who was one of the prime movers behind the Iraq surge of 2007, has backed a …. Read the original article  : Afghan withdrawal date ‘emboldens’ Taliban.

Body of son of boxing promoter Bob Arum found in Washington’s North Cascades

Body of boxing promoter’s son found on Wash. peak

SEATTLE – A five-day search for the missing son of top boxing promoter Bob Arum ended when a helicopter located John Arum’s body on a rugged Washington state mountain in North Cascades National Park, authorities say.
The body of the younger Arum, an experienced mountain climber, was spotted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

POLITICAL INSIDER: Christie joins other GOP leaders in fending off Castle challenger

POLITICAL INSIDER: Christie backs Castle
WASHINGTON – Republican Gov. Chris Christie, who rode voter anger to office in New Jersey last year, is endorsing Mike Castle’s bid to win the GOP primary in Delaware and is joining a pack of party leaders trying to block a tea party-backed candidate’s bid.
Christie, a graduate …. Original source  : POLITICAL INSIDER: Christie joins other GOP leaders in fending off Castle challenger.

Abducted Bihar policeman’s village people hold highway protest

PATNA – Hundreds of people from the village of abducted policeman Abhay Kumar Yadav Saturday blocked a national highway to protest the Bihar government’s failure to rescue the sub-inspector who is among the three policemen being held hostage by Maoists.

Yadav along with three other policemen was abducted by Maoists after a six-hour gunfight in Lakhisarai …. Read the original article  : Abducted Bihar policeman’s village people hold highway protest.

Cricket chief says fixing allegations against Pakistan players are most serious since Cronje

ICC: fixing case is most serious since Cronje

LONDON – The International Cricket Council head called the fixing allegations against three suspended Pakistan players the most serious case of corruption to hit the sport since South Africa captain Hansie Cronje was banned for life 10 years ago.
ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat said Friday that allegations that …. Source  : Cricket chief says fixing allegations against Pakistan players are most serious since Cronje.

Two suspected Maoists held, search on for abducted cops

PATNA – Two suspected Maoists were arrested Saturday in Bihar’s Jamui district while a massive combing operation was on to trace three cops abducted by the rebels, a day after the body of slain policeman Lucas Tete was found in a forest.

The two suspected Maoists were arrested from the court premises in Jamui in connection … Original article on : Two suspected Maoists held, search on for abducted cops.

A musical on 9/11 released

NEW YORK – “Clear Blue Tuesday”, a musical offering a unique perspective on the Sep 11, 2001 terror attack in New York was released here Friday.

Instead of describing the attacks, the movie follows the lives of 11 New Yorkers through six consecutive September months following the 9/11 attack, as each one comes to grip with …. Source article  : A musical on 9/11 released.

911 caller during Discovery Channel hostage taking says: ‘You’re going to need a sniper’

911 calls describe Discovery Channel gunman, IED

BALTIMORE – A security guard who called 911 after a gunman entered Discovery Channel’s headquarters calmly told the operator: “You’re probably going to need a sniper.”
The call, released Friday, was one of several placed minutes after a gunman entered the lobby and took three hostages. Other callers described the … Original article on : 911 caller during Discovery Channel hostage taking says: ‘You’re going to need a sniper’.

Maoists sorry for wrongly saying Yadav was killed

PATNA – A day after the bullet-riddled body of Bihar cop Lucas Tete was found, Maoists Saturday apologised for wrongly saying that they had killed Sub-Inspector Abhay Kumar Yadav. The rebels said that the other three policemen they had abducted were safe.

Maoist spokesperson Avinash told a local Hindi news channel that he was sorry for …. Read the original article  : Maoists sorry for wrongly saying Yadav was killed.

Police: Colts defensive tackle Fili Moala arrested for DWI, speeding in Indianapolis

Colts defensive tackle Fili Moala arrested for DWI

INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis police say Colts defensive tackle Fili Moala (FEE-lee Muh-wa-luh) has been arrested for driving while intoxicated, public intoxication and speeding.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department says Moala was stopped at 2:31 a.m. Friday after an officer noticed his vehicle speeding.
A police report says the 25-year-old Moala …. Source  : Police: Colts defensive tackle Fili Moala arrested for DWI, speeding in Indianapolis.

SEC reaches settlement with former Qwest CEO Joseph Nacchio in civil case

SEC reaches settlement with ex-Qwest CEO Nacchio

DENVER – The Securities and Exchange Commission has reached a settlement in its civil lawsuit against former Qwest CEO Joseph Nacchio.
The suit accused Nacchio and other former executives at Denver-based Qwest Communications International Inc. of misleading investors by not specifying how much of the telecommunication company’s revenue between 1999 …. Source article  : SEC reaches settlement with former Qwest CEO Joseph Nacchio in civil case.

Report: Landis has filed a federal whistle-blower suit

Report: Landis has filed a whistle-blower suit

AUSTIN, Texas – Former Lance Armstrong teammate Floyd Landis, who has accused the seven-time Tour de France winner of doping while riding for the U.S. Postal Service team, has filed a federal whistle-blower lawsuit, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Landis won the Tour de France in 2006 but had … Original source on Gaea Times at : Report: Landis has filed a federal whistle-blower suit.

FBI arrests head of Calif. company accused of trafficking Thai workers to US farms

Head of alleged trafficking scheme arrested

HONOLULU – The head of a labor recruiting company accused of exploiting 400 workers from Thailand and forcing them to work on U.S. farms pleaded not guilty Friday, part of what the FBI calls the largest human-trafficking case charged in U.S. history
Los Angeles-based Global Horizons Manpower Inc. CEO Mordechai Orian, … Read : FBI arrests head of Calif. company accused of trafficking Thai workers to US farms.

Mother of slain Oklahoma camper files $10 million claim in Arizona

Mother of slain camper files claim in Phoenix

PHOENIX – The mother of an Oklahoma man believed to have been killed by an Arizona prison escapee has filed a $10 million claim against Arizona and a wrongful death lawsuit against the private company that operates the prison that housed the fugitive.
The Thursday claim against the state …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pharmacy worker killed in chaotic gun battle during robbery at suburban Sacramento drug store

Worker killed in chaotic gun battle at pharmacy

NORTH HIGHLANDS, Calif. – A shootout in the Sacramento suburbs has left a pharmacy worker dead and police hunting for two drugstore robbers.
Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Sgt. Tim Curran says two men walked into a Rexall pharmacy Thursday afternoon and demanded drugs.
Curran said the robbers and an …. Source  : Pharmacy worker killed in chaotic gun battle during robbery at suburban Sacramento drug store.

Mistrial declared in Los Angeles marriage fraud case involving Mexican-born actress

Jury deadlocks in Calif. marriage fraud case

LOS ANGELES – A federal judge declared a mistrial Friday after jurors told him deliberations had grown hostile in the marriage fraud case of Mexican-born actress Fernanda Romero and her husband.
The couple were accused of entering a sham marriage designed to allow the soap opera star to get a …. Original source  : Mistrial declared in Los Angeles marriage fraud case involving Mexican-born actress.

Judge says rapper 40 Glocc must obey gang ban from Southern California apartment complex

Calif. judge: rapper 40 Glocc must heed gang ban

COLTON, Calif. – A judge has ruled that a rapper known as 40 Glocc who touted his gang member status in songs and videos is subject to a 2008 gang injunction barring him from an apartment complex in his hometown of Colton.
The San Bernardino County district attorney … Read more : Judge says rapper 40 Glocc must obey gang ban from Southern California apartment complex.

Man accused of attempted burglary of Paris Hilton’s house pleads not guilty in LA court

Suspect in Paris Hilton burglary pleads not guilty

LOS ANGELES – A man accused of showing up at Paris Hilton’s house wielding two knives has pleaded not guilty to attempted felony burglary.
Nathan Lee Parada entered the plea Friday in a Los Angeles courtroom.
He was arrested Aug. 24 outside the socialite’s house and remains jailed in lieu … Original source on Gaea Times at : Man accused of attempted burglary of Paris Hilton’s house pleads not guilty in LA court.

Witness recants statements, says he didn’t see Anna Nicole’s boyfriend force drugs on model

Witness recants statements in Anna Nicole case

LOS ANGELES – A witness in the Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy trial recanted statements Friday that he saw defendant Howard K. Stern give the celebrity model excessive drugs.
Ford Shelley also testified that he never saw Smith abuse drugs, and that he believed her boyfriend-lawyer Stern shouldn’t be on …. Source  : Witness recants statements, says he didn’t see Anna Nicole’s boyfriend force drugs on model.

Gaza smugglers killed, missing as Israeli airstrike targets underground tunnels

Gaza smugglers dead, missing in Israeli strike

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – Gaza security officials say an Israeli airstrike targeting a smuggling tunnel has killed one Palestinian, wounded a second and left three more missing.
The Hamas officials identified the five as smugglers working in the tunnel under the Gaza-Egypt border.
They spoke Sunday on condition of anonymity … Read more »».

Maoists free abducted Bihar policemen (Second Lead)

PATNA – Two days after Maoists killed policeman Lucas Tete, the ultra Leftwing rebels Sunday freed the three other policemen they had abducted a week ago, the local media reported. However, the police have declined to confirm the development.

The three policemen – Abhay Prasad Yadav, Rupesh Kumar Sinha and Ehsan Khan – were reportedly released …. Source  : Maoists free abducted Bihar policemen (Second Lead).

From hunter to hunted: Salwa Judum leaders have nowhere to hide

RAIPUR – Leaders of Salwa Judum, the anti-Maoist civil militia, say they are being hunted down in a planned manner by the rebels even as the Chhattisgarh government, which was widely accused of arming the movement at one time, looks the other way.

The movement, which took birth in 2005, grew under government patronage and …. Source article  : From hunter to hunted: Salwa Judum leaders have nowhere to hide.

Questions about race complicate law enforcement efforts on Indian lands

Race complicates reservation crime fight
SAN FRANCISCO – For more than two hours on the night of May 16, 2007, Shane Maggi terrorized a Native American couple at their home on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana, pistol whipping them and firing bullets above the husband’s head.

Maggi, who suspected the couple had stolen his drugs, was … Read : Questions about race complicate law enforcement efforts on Indian lands.

Abducted Bihar policemen freed

PATNA – Maoist guerrillas Sunday freed three policemen they abducted a week ago, the local media reported, but the police declined to confirm the development.

The three policemen were reportedly released by their captors in a jungle area between Lakhisarai and Jamui districts, local journalists said.
Rajni Devi, wife of one of the policemen, Abhay Kumar … Read more »»».

Maoists free three Bihar policemen

PATNA – Three Bihar policemen held captive for a week were released Sunday by Maoist guerrillas, the local media reported.
Read : Maoists free three Bihar policemen.

Five killed in suicide terror attack in Russia

Moscow, Sep 5 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least five people were killed and 39 injured early Sunday in a suicide terror attack on a military unit in the southern Russian republic of Dagestan, a law enforcement source said.

A suicide bomber detonated his car packed with explosives near Buinaksk town after ramming into the gates of the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Five killed in suicide terror attack in Russia.

14 Al Qaeda men held in Yemen

SANA’A – Security forces have arrested 14 suspected members of the terrorist network Al Qaeda in a massive crackdown on the group in the restive southern town of Loudar, the Interior Ministry said early Sunday.

“Fourteen suspected Al Qaeda affiliates have been captured during a combing operation to trace remnants of the terrorist elements into their …. Source  : 14 Al Qaeda men held in Yemen.

Craigslist drops adult services section after attorneys general urge shutdown

Craigslist strikes adult services under pressure

Craigslist appears to have surrendered in a legal fight over erotic ads posted on its website, shutting down its adult services section Saturday and replacing it with a black bar that simply says “censored.”
The move comes just over a week after a group of state attorneys general said there weren’t … Read more »».

Four killed as security forces clash with Yemen militants

SANA’A – At least two soldiers and two separatists have been killed in clashes in the southern Yemeni provinces of Lahej and Abyan, security sources said Saturday.

In the restive al-Habileen town of Lahej province, members of the separatist Southern Movement ambushed and burned a police vehicle, killing one soldier and wounding three others late Saturday, …. Original source  : Four killed as security forces clash with Yemen militants.

Craigslist removes adult services section after attorneys general urge shutdown

Craigslist removes adult services section
Craigslist appears to have surrendered in a legal fight over erotic ads posted on its website, shutting down its adult services section Saturday and replacing it with a black bar that simply says “censored.”

The move comes just over a week after a group of state attorneys general said there weren’t enough … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Craigslist removes adult services section after attorneys general urge shutdown.

US drone attack kills seven militants in Pakistan

PESHAWAR – A US unmanned aircraft fired two missiles into Pakistan’s tribal region along the Afghan border Saturday, killing seven militants, a Pakistani security official said.

The missiles targeted a mud compound and a vehicle in Datta Khel village, located some 45 km west of Miranshah, the main town in North Waziristan tribal district.
“In both … Read more : US drone attack kills seven militants in Pakistan.

Hawaii farm owners to be sentenced for treatment of field workers brought to US from Thailand

Farms being prosecuted for importing Thai workers

HONOLULU – Two prominent, popular brothers who operate the second-largest vegetable farm in Hawaii will be sentenced in federal court this week on human trafficking charges – they pleaded guilty – but two former state governors, community groups, fellow farmers and other supporters are trying to keep them out … Read more »».

Police name man who went from big casino winner to victim of deadly crime in S. California

Police name casino winner robbed and killed in OC

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Authorities have identified the man who they say went from big winnings at a Southern California casino to death at the hands of robbers.
Santa Ana police Cpl. Anthony Bertagna (Bur-TAHN’-yah) said Saturday there are no suspects and no arrests in the death of …. Original source  : Police name man who went from big casino winner to victim of deadly crime in S. California.

Suspect in US consulate killings in Ciudad Juarez appears in federal court in San Antonio

Suspect in consulate deaths appears in Texas court

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – A man who told Mexican authorities he ordered the March killing of a U.S. Consulate worker in Mexico has been extradited to the U.S. and appeared in a federal court in Texas, the San Antonio Express-News reported.
Mexican authorities said Jesus Ernesto Chavez, an enforcer …. Source article  : Suspect in US consulate killings in Ciudad Juarez appears in federal court in San Antonio.

Suspect in US consulate killing in Ciudad Juarez appears in federal court in San Antonio

Suspect in consulate death appears in Texas court

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – A Texas newspaper reports a man suspected of ordering the assassination of a U.S. consulate worker in Mexico has appeared in federal court in San Antonio.
Mexican police have said Jesus Ernesto Chavez told them he ordered the March shooting of Lesley Enriquez because she … Read more : Suspect in US consulate killing in Ciudad Juarez appears in federal court in San Antonio.

Anti-war protesters, and hurled shoes, greet Tony Blair at Dublin signing of his memoir

Shoes, eggs hurled at ex-Brit PM Blair in Dublin

DUBLIN – Protesters hurled shoes and eggs Saturday at Tony Blair who held the first public signing of his memoir amid high security in Ireland’s capital. Hundreds more people lined up to have their books autographed – evidence that the divisions left by Blair’s decade as British [..] Read the original article: here.

Anti-war protesters, and a hurled shoe, greet Tony Blair at Dublin signing of his memoir

Shoe, eggs hurled at ex-Brit PM Blair in Dublin

DUBLIN – Protesters hurled shoes and eggs Saturday as Tony Blair held the first public signing of his memoir amid high security in the Irish capital. Hundreds more people lined up to have their books autographed – evidence that the divisions left by Blair’s decade as British … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Anti-war protesters, and a hurled shoe, greet Tony Blair at Dublin signing of his memoir.

Palestinian militants fire rocket into Israel

GAZA – Palestinian militants fired a rocket Saturday from the Gaza Strip into Israel, the first such attack since direct peace talks between Israel and the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) resumed two days ago.

The armed wing of the Popular Resistance Committee (PRC), a group loyal to Islamic Hamas movement which controls Gaza, claimed responsibility for … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Palestinian militants fire rocket into Israel.

Israeli settlers legitimate targets: Hamas

LONDON/JERUSALEM – A Hamas official Saturday said hurting Israeli settlers in the West Bank was a “natural thing” as they are armed and constitute the first reserve military force of the Israeli army.

“They are a real army in the full sense of the word. They have more than 500,000 automatic weapons at their disposal”, Hamas … Original source on Gaea Times at : Israeli settlers legitimate targets: Hamas.

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