Maoists blast rail tracks, kill guard in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas blew up rail tracks in Jharkhand’s Giridih district and killed a village guard in separate incidents Monday, the first day of a 48-hour shutdown called by the rebels.

“Maoist rebels blew up railway tracks near Karmabandh at 1.50 a.m. The blast affected the services of more than 30 trains, including three Rajdhani …. Original source  : Maoists blast rail tracks, kill guard in Jharkhand.

Britain refuses US request for officials to meet Senate staffers on Lockerbie investigation

UK officials won’t meet US Lockerbie investigators

LONDON – Britain has refused a request from a U.S. Senate committee to interview officials involved in the release of the man convicted of blowing up a passenger plane over Lockerbie, Scotland.
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is sending officials to Britain as part of its investigation into the release … Read more : Britain refuses US request for officials to meet Senate staffers on Lockerbie investigation.

Senate set to open impeachment trial against judge accused of lying under oath, taking payoffs

Senate to open impeachment trial against judge
WASHINGTON – The Senate on Monday opens its first impeachment trial since the 1999 case against former President Bill Clinton when it takes up a host of corruption allegations against a Louisiana judge.
The House voted unanimously in March to impeach U.S. District Judge G. Thomas Porteous, approving …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Senate set to open impeachment trial against judge accused of lying under oath, taking payoffs.

13 militants killed in Russia’s Dagestan

Moscow, Sep 13 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least 13 militants were killed in a raid carried out by the security personnel in Russia’s volatile North Caucasus republic of Dagestan, the National Anti-terrorism Committee said Monday.

Ten militants were killed in the Dagestani capital of Makhachkala with another three “eliminated” in the Kizilyurt district’s Komsomolskoye village. Two police … Read more : 13 militants killed in Russia’s Dagestan.

Maoists kill five CPI-M supporters in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Maoists shot dead five Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) supporters in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district Monday, the first day of a 48-hour shutdown the rebels called to demand a probe into the killing of their leader Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad.

“A 15-20 strong Maoist squad raided Chotopatina village under Nayagram police … Read more »»».

Lawyer awaits word on $500,000 bail to free detained American

Lawyer awaiting word on bail for detained American

TEHRAN, Iran – The lawyer of an American woman cleared for release from an Iranian prison says he is still waiting for word that the $500,000 bail has been paid.
Masoud Shafiei told The Associated Press on Monday that he has been in contact with the family of Sarah …. Source article  : Lawyer awaits word on $500,000 bail to free detained American.

5 Australian Muslims charged with planning attack on army

SYDNEY – Five militant Australian Islamists planned to arm themselves with automatic weapons and kill as many soldiers as they could in a suicide attack at a Sydney army barracks, a court in Melbourne was told Monday.

At the start of their trial, Melbourne men Saney Aweys, 27, Yacqub Khayre, 23, Abdirahman Ahmed, 26, Wissam Fattal, … Read more »»».

Man charged with trying to blow up Detroit-bound plane is returning to court; trial may be set

Trial date may be set in Detroit airline attack

DETROIT – A Nigerian man charged with trying to blow up an international flight near Detroit on Christmas is returning to court for the first time since January, following disclosures that his lawyers have talked to prosecutors several times about a plea deal.
U.S. District Judge Nancy Edmunds … Original article on : Man charged with trying to blow up Detroit-bound plane is returning to court; trial may be set.

Maoists kill two cops in Chhattisgarh attack

RAIPUR – Maoist guerrillas shot dead two policemen in a pre-dawn attack near a police station in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district Monday, police said.

The attack was carried out close to the Bhejji police station, over 500 km south of capital Raipur.
“The two policemen of the District Force (DF) were shot dead when they …. Source  : Maoists kill two cops in Chhattisgarh attack.

Maoists kill two cops in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoist guerrillas killed two policemen in a pre-dawn attack near a police station in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district, police said.

The attack was carried out close to Bhejji police station, over 500 km south of capital Raipur.
“The two policemen of the District Force (DF) were shot dead” when they had stepped outside the police …. Original source  : Maoists kill two cops in Chhattisgarh.

Maoists blow up rail tracks in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas early Monday blew up rail tracks in Jharkhand’s Giridih district, affecting services of over 30 trains, a railway official said.

“Maoist rebels blew up railway tracks near Karmabandh at 1.50 a.m. Monday. The blast affected the services of more than 30 trains, including three Rajdhani express trains,” Amrendra Das, public relations officer … Read more »»».

Mexican marines capture a presumed leader of Beltran Leyva cartel amid crackdown on drug gangs

Mexican marines arrest presumed drug kingpin

MEXICO CITY – Mexican marines captured Sergio Villarreal Barragan, a presumed leader of the embattled Beltran Leyva cartel and one of the country’s most-wanted fugitives, in a raid Sunday in the central state of Puebla, the government said.
The alleged capo known as “El Grande” did not put up any resistance … Read more »».

Mexican marines arrested a presumed leader of Beltran Leyva cartel

Mexican marines arrest presumed drug kingpin

MEXICO CITY – Mexican marines captured Sergio Villarreal Barragan, a presumed leader of the embattled Beltran Leyva cartel who appears on a list of the country’s most-wanted fugitives, in a raid Sunday in the central state of Puebla, officials said.
The presumed capo known as “El Grande” did not put up … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mexican marines arrested a presumed leader of Beltran Leyva cartel.

Man convicted in 1990s NYC race riots death is stabbed in head with ice pick, hospitalized

Man convicted in 1990s NYC race riots is stabbed

NEW YORK – A black man convicted in the death of a white Jewish scholar during race riots in the 1990s has been stabbed in the head with an ice pick in a possible road rage attack, police say.
Lemrick Nelson was found outside his car on a … Read more »»».

Mass. congressional candidate helps chase, corner man suspected of snatching purse

Mass. candidate for Congress helps nab suspect

FALMOUTH, Mass. – A district attorney who’s used to prosecuting criminal suspects has helped catch one in Massachusetts.
Norfolk District Attorney William Keating says he joined other diners at a restaurant Sunday morning in chasing a man suspected of stealing a handbag in Falmouth (FAL’-muth), in the southwestern part of … Read more »»».

US Muslims frustrated by suspicion that persists despite outreach efforts, denouncing violence

Fellow Americans’ suspicions frustrate US Muslims

NEW YORK – Nine years of denouncing terrorism, of praying side-by-side with Jews and Christians, of insisting “I’m American, too.” None of it could stop a season of hate against Muslims that made for an especially fraught Sept. 11. Now, Muslims are asking why their efforts to be accepted in …. Read the original article  : here.

Mass. doctor to be tried on manslaughter charges in death of Cape Cod abortion patient

Trial set for Mass. doc in abortion patient death

BOSTON – Laura Hope Smith was 22 years old and 13 weeks pregnant when she went to see a Cape Cod doctor for an abortion. She was pronounced dead later that day.
Prosecutors charged the doctor with manslaughter, alleging that he failed to monitor her while she was … Original article on : Mass. doctor to be tried on manslaughter charges in death of Cape Cod abortion patient.

Rock band Drivin’ N Cryin’ driving home without vintage equipment after theft

Drivin’ N Cryin’s equipment stolen
ATLANTA – Atlanta-based rock band Drivin’ N Cryin’ has plenty of reason to cry: They’ll be driving to their next gig without more than $50,000 of vintage and custom equipment that was swiped from a hotel.

A trailer packed with vintage amplifiers, custom guitars and an elaborate drum set was stolen from … Read more : Rock band Drivin’ N Cryin’ driving home without vintage equipment after theft.

5 slayings, suicide rock rural Ky. trailer court as investigators piece rampage together

5 slayings, suicide rock rural Ky. trailer court

JACKSON, Ky. – Nothing seemed amiss when Robert Collins first heard someone had fired gunshots in his trailer park in rural eastern Kentucky. After all, it wasn’t uncommon for the neighbors to let a few rounds loose for stress relief or target practice.
When the 50-year-old heard six of …. Read the original article  : 5 slayings, suicide rock rural Ky. trailer court as investigators piece rampage together.

Three Palestinians killed in Gaza Strip

GAZA – Three Palestinians were killed and two injured Sunday during Israeli artillery shelling in the Gaza Strip, medical sources at the Beit Hanoun hospital said.

The artillery shelling in the northern Gaza Strip city of Beit Hanoun was carried out after Gaza militants fired three mortar shells into the southern Israeli region of Negev. The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Three Palestinians killed in Gaza Strip.

Malawi’s former President Muluzi pleads not guilty in corruption case

Malawi’s ex-president: I’m innocent of corruption

BLANTYRE, Malawi – Former President Bakili Muluzi has pleaded not guilty to 12 counts of corruption and theft.
Muluzi appeared in the High Court in Blantyre Tuesday, five years after he was arrested and charged with corruption following allegations that he took for his personal use $12 million in development aid …. Source article  : Malawi’s former President Muluzi pleads not guilty in corruption case.

Guinea’s election commission chief dies, just days before critical presidential runoff vote

Guinea poll chief dies days before critical vote

CONAKRY, Guinea – A family friend says Guinea’s election commission chief has died just days before a scheduled critical election.
Mamadou Bah says Ben Sekou Sylla died overnight Monday at a Paris hospital. Sylla has been ill for some time and a temporary successor was appointed. But his death …. Source article  : Guinea’s election commission chief dies, just days before critical presidential runoff vote.

George Michael to be sentenced for driving under influence of drugs after photo-shop collision

George Michael to be sentenced for drug driving

LONDON – George Michael is facing a fine or jail time after he admitted driving while under the influence of drugs.
The singer pleaded guilty last month to driving under the influence and possession of cannabis following an incident on July 4 when his Range Rover crashed into a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : George Michael to be sentenced for driving under influence of drugs after photo-shop collision.

US drone attack kills eight militants in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least eight militants were killed Tuesday in a suspected US drone attack in Pakistan’s tribal region along the Afghan border, Pakistani security officials said.

An intelligence official said the unmanned aircraft fired three missiles into a house in the Shawal Valley in the North Waziristan tribal district, demolishing the compound.
“The house was …. Source article  : US drone attack kills eight militants in Pakistan.

US eyes first-ever criminal charges against radical cleric al-Awlaki, already marked for death

US eyes terror charges for Yemeni cleric al-Awlaki

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is considering filing the first criminal charges against radical cleric Anwar al-Awlaki in case the CIA fails to kill him and he’s is captured alive in Yemen.
The decision continues the White House’s strategy of fighting terrorism both in court and on the battlefield.
Al-Awlaki, …. Read the original article  : US eyes first-ever criminal charges against radical cleric al-Awlaki, already marked for death.

French Senate set to vote on bill outlawing Islamic veils that cover the face; passage likely

French Senate to vote on ban of full Muslim veils

PARIS – Oum Al Khyr says she’ll hole up at home and pray. Other women, preferring to flirt with arrest, may defy a ban on the burqa-style veil if a bill to outlaw the Islamic garment becomes the law of the land in France.
The ban, to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : French Senate set to vote on bill outlawing Islamic veils that cover the face; passage likely.

Testimony expected to conclude in trial of Los Angeles actor accused of stabbing ex

Testimony nearing a close in LA actor trial

VISTA, Calif. – Testimony is expected to conclude Tuesday in the trial of a Los Angeles actor accused of stabbing his ex-girlfriend at her San Diego County home.
Shelley Malil, who appeared in the film “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” testified Monday he understands he’s responsible for her wounds but doesn’t … Read more : Testimony expected to conclude in trial of Los Angeles actor accused of stabbing ex.

Musharraf tried to protect Taliban after 9/11: Report

WASHINGTON – As the White House focused its efforts “on challenging long-established Taliban strongholds”, newly released documents revealed that back in the Bush era Pakistan made all out efforts to save the terrorist group.

After the Sep 11, 2001 terror attack, when the US had decided to bomb Afghanistan, then Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf and its … Read more >>.

Chicago man charged with kidnapping, attempting to kill California woman

Chicago man charged in Calif. kidnapping case

ALHAMBRA, Calif. – Los Angeles County prosecutors say a Chicago man has been charged with kidnapping and attempting to murder a 21-year-old woman who authorities say was left for dead after her father had agreed to pay a ransom for her return.
Prosecutors say 24-year-old DeQiang Song was charged Monday … Read more : Chicago man charged with kidnapping, attempting to kill California woman.

Federal appeals court criticizes Wisconsin judge for Hitler reference

Court blasts Wisconsin judge for Hitler reference

CHICAGO – An appeals court has admonished a federal judge in Wisconsin for claiming a convicted drug dealer’s love for his family is akin to Adolf Hitler’s love for his dog.
The U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago on Monday ordered that the defendant, Jose Figueroa, be re-sentenced.
The …. Original article  : Federal appeals court criticizes Wisconsin judge for Hitler reference.

‘40-Year-Old Virgin’ actor testifies he stabbed ex because he thought he was under attack

‘40-Year-Old Virgin’ actor testifies at trial

VISTA, Calif. – Shelley Malil, the Indian-born actor accused of stabbing his ex-girlfriend at her San Diego County home, testified Monday he understands he’s responsible for her wounds but doesn’t remember inflicting each one.
Malil, who appeared in the film “The 40-Year-Old Virgin,” told jurors he started flailing with a knife …. Original source  : ‘40-Year-Old Virgin’ actor testifies he stabbed ex because he thought he was under attack.

Attorney for ESPN’s Jay Mariotti says domestic violence allegations are false

Mariotti’s attorney says allegations are false

LOS ANGELES – ESPN personality and AOL sports columnist Jay Mariotti will be charged in an alleged domestic violence incident in Los Angeles, prosecutors said Monday.
Seven misdemeanors are being filed against Mariotti, including domestic violence with injury, false imprisonment and grand theft, city attorney spokesman Frank Mateljan said. Each count …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists blow up railway track in Bihar

PATNA – Maoists blew up a railway track in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district and set ablaze the machine room of a mobile tower in Gaya district early Tuesday to enforce a two-day strike, police said.

The rebels blew up the railway track near Sakra railway station in Muzaffarpur district, about 70 km from here. Sakra is situated …. Source  : Maoists blow up railway track in Bihar.

Chinese man sentenced in San Diego for smuggling restricted US military equipment

Chinese man sentenced in military smuggling case

SAN DIEGO – A Chinese man has been sentenced to eight years in federal prison for trying to smuggle restricted U.S. military equipment to his native Macau.
City News Service reported a federal judge in San Diego handed down the sentence Monday for Chi Tong Kuok.
Kuok was convicted in May … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chinese man sentenced in San Diego for smuggling restricted US military equipment.

Mass. doctor pleads guilty to manslaughter charges in death of Cape Cod abortion patient

Mass. doc pleads guilty in abortion patient death

BOSTON – A Massachusetts doctor has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the case of a woman who died after he performed an abortion on her.
Dr. Rapin Osathanondh (O-SATH’-an-on) entered the plea Monday as his trial was getting under way in Barnstable Superior Court on Cape Cod. It was …. Original article  : Mass. doctor pleads guilty to manslaughter charges in death of Cape Cod abortion patient.

Al Qaeda blows up gas pipeline in Yemen

SANA’A – Suspected Al Qaeda militants blew up a pipeline transferring liquefied natural gas (LNG) between two provinces in Yemen, officials said.

The gas pipeline was from Yemeni Marib province to Shabwa province via the Belhaf port terminal, near where the blast took place, officials of the Yemen Gas Co. were quoted as saying by Xinhua. …. Source  : Al Qaeda blows up gas pipeline in Yemen.

Justice Dept. asks judge to force Ariz. sheriff to turn over documents in civil-rights probe

Feds ask judge to order Ariz. sheriff to cooperate

PHOENIX – The Justice Department has asked a federal judge in Arizona to force Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio and his office to provide full and immediate access to records and facilities for a civil-rights investigation without going to trial.
The motion for summary judgment filed Monday also …. Source article  : Justice Dept. asks judge to force Ariz. sheriff to turn over documents in civil-rights probe.

Rudy Giuliani backs Illinois Republicans, touts national anti-gang task force legislation

Giuliani calls for federal anti-gang task force
CHICAGO – The Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Illinois raised the specter of Chicago gangster Al Capone on Monday in calling on the federal government to become more involved in fighting modern-day street gangs nationwide.
Mark Kirk appeared with former New York City Mayor Rudy … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rudy Giuliani backs Illinois Republicans, touts national anti-gang task force legislation.

Settlement in class-action lawsuit over actors’ foreign royalties goes to judge for approval

Actors, union settle suit over foreign royalties

LOS ANGELES – Attorneys for the Screen Actors Guild and the actor who played Eddie Haskell on “Leave It to Beaver” have reached a settlement in a class-action lawsuit over the distribution of millions of dollars in foreign royalties to actors.
Attorneys for the union and actor Ken Osmond filed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Settlement in class-action lawsuit over actors’ foreign royalties goes to judge for approval.

New misdemeanor charges for 5 teens accused of disrupting mosque service in upstate NY

New charges for 5 accused of harassing NY mosque

CARLTON, N.Y. – Five teenagers accused of disrupting a religious service at a small-town mosque were hit with extra misdemeanor charges Monday, but a prosecutor said he was holding off classifying their acts as a hate crime.
Two 17-year-old boys and three 18-year-olds yelled obscenities and honked car … Read : New misdemeanor charges for 5 teens accused of disrupting mosque service in upstate NY.

Police officer arrested in shooting death of South African teen during school protest

Officer arrested in death of SAfrican teen

JOHANNESBURG – South African authorities have arrested a police officer in the shooting death of a a 17-year-old girl who was among student protesters complaining that a teachers strike had given them insufficient time to prepare for exams.
In a statement Wednesday, the Independent Complaints Directorate, an independent government watchdog, …. Read the original article  : Police officer arrested in shooting death of South African teen during school protest.

American freed after more than a year in Iranian prison now resting in Oman after bail deal

Freed American resting in Oman after bail deal
MUSCAT, Oman – American Sarah Shourd is resting in Oman’s capital Muscat on her first full day of freedom after a surprise bail deal with Iran secured her release after more than 13 months in custody.
U.S. and Omani officials say it’s unclear how long Shourd will …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : American freed after more than a year in Iranian prison now resting in Oman after bail deal.

Pope seeks to remind Britain about God amid indifference to visit and disgust over sex abuse

Pope travels to Britain amid indifference, outrage

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI takes his campaign to revive Christianity in an increasingly secular Europe to Britain on Thursday. He faces a daunting task in a nation largely at odds with his policies and where disgust over the church sex abuse scandal runs high.
Add to that centuries …. Read the original article  : here.

Erin Caffey’s Case On ‘Final Witness’

DALLAS (GaeaTimes.com)- In what seems like a scene straight out of a horror movie, Terry Caffey spoke about the horrifying killings of his family members in the latest episode of ‘Final Witness’ on ABC. Being shot 5 times, his survival was a miracle and the only family member who was alive after the brutal …. Original article  : Erin Caffey’s Case On ‘Final Witness’.

Cosmetic mogul’s slaying grips Malaysia; police say her body was burned, ashes discarded

Cosmetics millionaire’s slaying grips Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysians have been captivated this week by the slaying of a self-made cosmetics mogul whose remains were disposed of on a poultry farm owned by two lawyer brothers with an alleged history of shady land deals, according to police.
Sosilawati Lawiya and three of her aides went missing … Read : Cosmetic mogul’s slaying grips Malaysia; police say her body was burned, ashes discarded.

Bangladeshi terror group operates despite ban

DHAKA – Banned Islamist outfit Jama’atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) receives five million takas ($72,254) from domestic and foreign sources every month to run its operations, a media report said Wednesday.

A person called Mamun, who was involved in a fake currency racket in India, had been donating 50,000 takas ($722) every month to JMB fund …. Read the original article  : Bangladeshi terror group operates despite ban.

Maoists set ablaze bus

PATNA – Maoists set ablaze a bus in Bihar’s Sheohar district Wednesday but its only occupant, the driver, escaped unhurt, police said.

According to police, the rebels attacked the bus near Basantpatti, about 250 km from here. The incident occurred just after a two-day shutdown called by Maoists ended.
… Read more >>.

US drone attacks kill 12 in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Twelve militants were killed Wednesday in US drone attacks in northwest Pakistan, a media report said.

The pre-dawn attacks targeted the Haqqani terror network in Dargah Mandi village. The village is located on the outskirts of Miranshah town in the troubled North Waziristan tribal region, Geo TV reported.
“US drones fired seven missiles …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US drone attacks kill 12 in Pakistan.

DA: ‘Mountain of evidence’ against ‘40-Year-Old Virgin’ actor accused of trying to kill ex

DA: ‘Mountain of evidence’ against LA actor

VISTA, Calif. – The prosecutor in an actor’s attempted murder trial told a jury Tuesday that there is a “mountain of evidence” against the man accused of trying to kill his ex girlfriend by repeatedly stabbing her.
In his closing argument, Deputy District Attorney Keith Watanabe told San Diego County [..] Read the original article: here.

British envoy attack suspects to be put on trial

SANA’A – Four Al Qaeda suspects, including a German and an Iraqi, will be put on trial over their alleged involvement in a failed suicide attack on the convoy of the British envoy to Yemen, the country’s defence ministry has said.

“A trial for the four Al Qaeda members will start next Monday by the Sanaa-based …. Source  : British envoy attack suspects to be put on trial.

Defense lawyer claims prosecutor encouraged perjury by witness in Anna Nicole case

Lawyer: Smith case prosecutor encouraged perjury

LOS ANGELES – Howard K. Stern’s lawyer angrily accused a prosecutor Tuesday of encouraging perjury by a key witness at the Anna Nicole Smith drug conspiracy trial.
Defense attorney Steve Sadow was red-faced as he asked the judge to strike the entire testimony of Nadine Alexie, a former nanny for Smith.
“I’m …. Source  : Defense lawyer claims prosecutor encouraged perjury by witness in Anna Nicole case.

Mexico’s top immigration official resigns in wake of massacre of 72 migrants

Mexican immigration official quits after massacre

MEXICO CITY – Mexico’s top immigration official resigned Monday in the wake of a massacre of 72 migrants that exposed how brutally drug cartels have come to control human smuggling routes in the country.
Cecilia Romero stepped down as head of the National Institute of Migration, a post she had held …. Original source  : Mexico’s top immigration official resigns in wake of massacre of 72 migrants.

Texas panel ready to end disputed inquiry into deadly arson that led to man’s execution

Texas panel ready to end disputed arson inquiry

DALLAS – A Texas panel is expected to review a final report that clears fire officials of wrongdoing in their arson investigation that led to a man’s 2004 execution.
The Texas Forensic Science Commission is scheduled to meet Friday in Dallas.
A draft of the report says fire investigators did …. Read the original article  : Texas panel ready to end disputed inquiry into deadly arson that led to man’s execution.

Blast in Bahrain car park

DUBAI – An explosion in a car park damaged at least four cars in a town south of Bahraini capital Manama, but there were no reports of any casualties, a media report said.

The explosive device was placed under a park car in a residential area, home to families of security personnel and interior ministry employees, … Read more »»».

NY judge rules defendant in plot to blow up synagogues and planes is faking mental illnesses

NY judge says terror defendant is faking illness

NEW YORK – A defendant in a terrorism trial who claims he sees ghosts, dead people and even the Virgin Mary is faking mental illness, a judge concluded Tuesday as she ordered a resumption of the trial of four men accused of plotting to blow up New York … Read more >>>.

‘Deeply embarrassed’ Pa. gov. shuts down intelligence reports on peaceful protesters

‘Appalled’ Pa. gov. shuts down reports on protests

HARRISBURG, Pa. – Information about an anti-BP candlelight vigil, a gay and lesbian festival and other peaceful gatherings became the subject of anti-terrorism bulletins being distributed by Pennsylvania’s homeland security office, an apologetic Gov. Ed Rendell admitted.
Rendell, who claimed he’d just learned about the practice, said Tuesday that …. Read the original article  : ‘Deeply embarrassed’ Pa. gov. shuts down intelligence reports on peaceful protesters.

Man charged with stabbing dean at community college in Kansas City

Man charged in stabbing at Kansas City college

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Witnesses say a man who was mumbling, pacing and carrying a knife in a college building where Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon was scheduled to speak stabbed a dean in the neck before being subdued.
Albert Dimmitt, the dean of instruction at Penn Valley Community College … Read : Man charged with stabbing dean at community college in Kansas City.

Eiffel Tower evacuated after bomb scare

PARIS – Paris police evacuated the Eiffel Tower late Tuesday after an anonymous caller said a bomb had been placed on the popular tourist attraction, France Info radio reported.

Some 2,500 people were on the tower and on the Champs de Mars, the green area surrounding it, when the alert was given. They were all taken …. Read the original article  : Eiffel Tower evacuated after bomb scare.

Judge considering striking witness’ testimony from Anna Nicole trial after perjury allegation

Lawyer says witness lied at prosecutor’s urging

LOS ANGELES – The lawyer for Howard K. Stern has asked a judge to strike a key witness’ entire testimony in the Anna Nicole Smith drug case, claiming she committed perjury at the urging of the prosecutor.
Attorney Steve Sadow was red-faced with anger as he addressed the judge outside … Original article on : Judge considering striking witness’ testimony from Anna Nicole trial after perjury allegation.

Former Mass. real estate executive expected pleads guilty in campaign fund scheme

Ex-exec pleads guilty in Mass. campaign fund case

BOSTON – A former senior official with a major Boston real estate development firm pleaded guilty Tuesday to underwriting illegal campaign contributions to local, state and federal candidates and to witness tampering.
Martin Raffol, former vice president of Winn Residential Co., entered the pleas in U.S. District Court in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Former Mass. real estate executive expected pleads guilty in campaign fund scheme.

International rights groups condemn Kyrgyz activist’s life jail sentence

Rights groups slam Kyrgyz activist’s life sentence

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – International advocacy groups condemned the life sentence handed to a leading rights activist in Kyrgyzstan, saying Thursday that his trial was marred by violence and procedural irregularities.
The Nooken District Court in southern Kyrgyzstan convicted Azimjon Askarov on Wednesday on charges including complicity in murder, participating in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : International rights groups condemn Kyrgyz activist’s life jail sentence.

Lawsuit by Michael Jackson’s mom aims to shift focus to AEG Live, promoter of aborted comeback

Suit by Jackson’s mom focuses on concert backer

LOS ANGELES – A lawsuit filed by Michael Jackson’s mother once again places the spotlight on the pop star’s final days as it focuses not just on the doctor charged in his death but also on the concert promoter that was supposed to pay the physician.
Katherine Jackson sued … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lawsuit by Michael Jackson’s mom aims to shift focus to AEG Live, promoter of aborted comeback.

Jurors begin deliberations in attempted murder trial of Los Angeles actor

Fate of LA actor now in hands of SoCal jury

VISTA, Calif. – The fate of an actor accused of trying to kill his ex-girlfriend is now in the hands of a San Diego County jury.
Jurors began deliberations Wednesday afternoon after closing arguments concluded in the trial of Shelley Malil. The panel recessed late Wednesday without …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jurors begin deliberations in attempted murder trial of Los Angeles actor.

Pune-Mumbai now linked by terror as well

MUMBAI/PUNE – It’s not just an expressway that connects Mumbai and Pune. Investigators say the two Maharashtra cities are now strongly linked by a terror trail, and revelations in the German Bakery bombing are the latest pointer in this direction.

Separated from India’s commercial and entertainment capital Mumbai by a mere 150-minute drive on the expressway, …. Read the original article  : Pune-Mumbai now linked by terror as well.

Wisconsin district attorney who ’sexted’ domestic abuse victim says he will stay in office

Wis. prosecutor who ’sexted’ victim won’t resign

CHILTON, Wis. – A Wisconsin prosecutor known as an advocate for crime victims says he’s embarrassed about sending sexually suggestive text messages to a strangulation victim.
But Calumet County District Attorney Kenneth Kratz said Wednesday that he won’t be leaving office.
Kratz issued that statement after The Associated Press reported on …. Read the original article  : here.

Military officer to decide if Fort Hood shooting suspect’s hearing should be closed

Attorney says Fort Hood hearing should be closed

FORT HOOD, Texas – A military officer is expected to decide Thursday whether allowing the media and others to hear testimony next month from those who survived last year’s shooting rampage at Fort Hood will jeopardize the suspect’s right to a fair trial.
Defense attorney John Galligan said he …. Source  : Military officer to decide if Fort Hood shooting suspect’s hearing should be closed.

Maoists release abducted Jharkhand official

RANCHI – The Maoists Thursday released an official they abducted from Jharkhand’s Latehar district a day earlier, police said.

According to police, the rebels abducted seven officials from Pagar village, around 145 km from Ranchi. Six were released Wednesday evening but an official of the food and supply department, M.O. Kesar Murmu, was taken to a … Original article on : Maoists release abducted Jharkhand official.

Maoists planned to replicate Jehanabad jailbreak in Jamui

PATNA – Maoist guerrillas in Bihar planned to replicate Jehanabad jailbreak in Jamui district last month to free their 51 cadres lodged in the jail, police said Thursday.

Baro Koda, a Maoist suspected of killing Lucas Tete — one of the four Bihar policemen abducted by the rebels last month — and arrested last week, [..] Read the original article: here.

Pope Benedict to begin 4-day UK visit with Scotland stop and visit with Queen Elizabeth

Pope begins 4-day UK visit with stop in Scotland

EDINBURGH, Scotland – Pope Benedict XVI arrives in the United Kingdom on Thursday for a four-day visit, a controversial yet historic state trip that has been overshadowed by the sex abuse scandals which have shaken confidence in the Roman Catholic Church.
Thousands of tickets to papal events remain … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pope Benedict to begin 4-day UK visit with Scotland stop and visit with Queen Elizabeth.

‘Ode to peace’ UN concert symbolized India’s mission against terror: Envoy

CHICAGO – The ‘Ode to peace’ concert performed by sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan at the United Nations ahead of the 9/11 anniversary was a declaration of India’s battle against terror, says Anupam Ray, India’s acting permanent representative to the United Nations.

“India has been one of the biggest victims of terror and the event … Read : ‘Ode to peace’ UN concert symbolized India’s mission against terror: Envoy.

Pope Benedict to begin four-day UK visit with Scotland stop and visit with Queen Elizabeth

Pope to begin four-day UK visit with Scotland stop

EDINBURGH, Scotland – After months of preparation and controversy, Pope Benedict XVI arrives in the United Kingdom on Thursday for a four-day visit overshadowed by sex abuse scandals that have shaken confidence in the church.
Thousands of tickets to papal events remain unclaimed in an increasingly secular country … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pope Benedict to begin four-day UK visit with Scotland stop and visit with Queen Elizabeth.

Khmer Rouge tribunal indicts 4 senior leaders ahead of second trial

Khmer Rouge tribunal indicts 4 senior leaders

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – Cambodia’s U.N.-backed genocide tribunal Thursday indicted the four top surviving leaders of the Khmer Rouge regime blamed for 1.7 million deaths in the 1970s, paving the way for the panel’s long-awaited second trial next year.
The defendants, now frail octogenarians, deny any guilt for their roles …. Source article  : Khmer Rouge tribunal indicts 4 senior leaders ahead of second trial.

Man convicted in deaths that terrorized Calif. rural area paroled to grounds of state prison

Convicted killer paroled to Calif. prison grounds

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California prison officials say a man convicted in a series of killings in the 1980s and ’90s will be moving to living quarters on the grounds of High Desert State Prison.
Loren Herzog had been sentenced to 78 years in prison after being convicted in 2003 in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Man convicted in deaths that terrorized Calif. rural area paroled to grounds of state prison.

Suspected Filipino mom of newborn baby abandoned in airplane trash questioned

Suspected Filipino mom of mystery plane baby found

MANILA, Philippines – Investigators Thursday questioned the suspected Philippine mother of a baby found alive in the trash of a Bahrain-to-Manila flight, after tracing the passenger assigned to a bloodstained seat on the plane.
Social Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman said authorities planned DNA tests on the baby, who apparently …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Suspected Filipino mom of newborn baby abandoned in airplane trash questioned.

Government report finds rate of illegal drug use rising to highest level in nearly a decade

Report: Illegal drug use up sharply last year

WASHINGTON – The rate of illegal drug use rose last year to the highest level in nearly a decade, fueled by a sharp increase in marijuana use and a surge in ecstasy and methamphetamine abuse, the government reported Wednesday.
Gil Kerlikowske, the director of the Office of National Drug … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Government report finds rate of illegal drug use rising to highest level in nearly a decade.

Israeli planes strike Gaza

GAZA – Israeli F16 jets carried out early Thursday five successive airstrikes on several targets in the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip in response to earlier projectile attacks on southern Israel, witnesses said.

They said that the jets flew over the costal enclave and struck non-populated areas in northern Gaza Strip, causing no damages and no injuries, but … Read more »»».

Michael Jackson’s mother sues concert promoter AEG Live over provisions of care for pop star

Jackson’s mother sues concert promoter AEG Live

LOS ANGELES – Michael Jackson’s mother sued a concert promoter Wednesday, alleging the company failed to provide life-saving equipment and oversee a doctor who was hired to look out for the pop star’s well-being as he prepared for what were intended to be his comeback concerts.
Katherine Jackson’s lawsuit was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Michael Jackson’s mother sues concert promoter AEG Live over provisions of care for pop star.

Ill. man who pleaded guilty to bilking friends in $77M Ponzi scheme gets 23 years in prison

Ill. man gets 23 years for $77M Ponzi scheme

CHICAGO – Tearful, angry victims of a $77 million Ponzi scheme that targeted hundreds of often working-class Italian-Americans crowded into a Chicago courtroom Thursday to tell their stories before a judge handed the convicted swindler a maximum 23-year prison term.
The federal judge rejected prosecutors’ recommendation of a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ill. man who pleaded guilty to bilking friends in $77M Ponzi scheme gets 23 years in prison.

Seattle LB Leroy Hill back from suspension, ready to do whatever needed for Seahawks

Seahawks’ Leroy Hill back from suspension
RENTON, Wash. – Seattle linebacker Leroy Hill finally has a game to look forward to.

After a rough few months filled with off-field drama, Hill returned from his one-game suspension and rejoined the Seahawks on Wednesday. He’ll play on Sunday in Denver, although no one is quite sure how Hill will …. Original article  : Seattle LB Leroy Hill back from suspension, ready to do whatever needed for Seahawks.

Police: Man whose body was found in Los Angeles airport bathroom had history of mental illness

Body found in restroom at Los Angeles airport

LOS ANGELES – A man who was found dead with his hands tied behind his back and a bag over his head in a restroom at Los Angeles International Airport apparently committed suicide, officials said Wednesday.
The man, whose identity was not immediately released pending notification of family, had … Read more >>>.

French FM: al-Qaida’s North Africa offshoot may be behind Niger kidnappings of 7 in Sahara

France suspects al-Qaida link in Niger kidnapping

PARIS – France’s foreign minister says authorities believe al-Qaida’s North Africa branch could be behind the kidnapping of five French nationals and two Africans in Niger.
Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner says no one has claimed responsibility for the kidnappings. But he told French radio Europe-1 on Friday that “we imagine … Read more »»».

Chechen separatist arrested in Warsaw on international warrant

Chechen separatist arrested in Poland
WARSAW, Poland – Police in Poland say senior Chechen separatist Akhmed Zakayev who is wanted by Russia has been arrested on an international warrant.

Zakayev was arrested early Friday as he was leaving a house in Warsaw. National police spokesman Mariusz Sokolowski also said he is now being questioned by prosecutors.
Zakayev, who …. Original article  : Chechen separatist arrested in Warsaw on international warrant.

Dynamite store explodes inside police station in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – A stock of dynamite exploded inside a police station in eastern Sri Lanka Friday, injuring at least seven people, police said, adding that foul play was not suspected.

The explosives were intended for road construction in the area and were being stored at the Karadiyanaru police station, 260 km east of Colombo.
Deputy Inspector …. Source  : Dynamite store explodes inside police station in Sri Lanka.

Appeals court hears arguments on release of detainee accused of recruiting Sept. 11 hijackers

US fights order to release Guantanamo detainee

WASHINGTON – The government is asking an appeals court to throw out a judge’s order to release a Guantanamo Bay prisoner accused of recruiting Sept. 11 hijackers.
The 9/11 commission report described Mohamedou Ould Salahi as a significant al-Qaida operative who instructed hijackers how to reach Afghanistan to train for … Read more »».

Jury sees police interview of defendant accused of DUI crash that killed Angels pitcher

Police interview of defendant played in court

SANTA ANA, Calif. – The man charged with murder in the drunken driving crash that killed a promising Los Angeles Angels pitcher and two others told investigators he must have “blanked out” while trying to find his way home and woke up only when the cars hit, according to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jury sees police interview of defendant accused of DUI crash that killed Angels pitcher.

Distraught son shoots elderly mother’s surgeon at Johns Hopkins, then kills her, himself

Mother, son dead at Johns Hopkins, doctor shot

BALTIMORE – Paul Warren Pardus listened as a Johns Hopkins Hospital surgeon updated him on the condition of his elderly mother who likely would never walk again. Overwhelmed, he pulled a gun from his waistband, wounded the doctor, then barricaded himself in his 84-year-old mother’s hospital room before …. Original article  : Distraught son shoots elderly mother’s surgeon at Johns Hopkins, then kills her, himself.

Video shows Indiana teen calmly demonstrating how he strangled 10-year-old brother

Ind. teen showed police how he killed brother

RISING SUN, Ind. – Prosecutors seeking life in prison for an Indiana teenager who pleaded guilty to murder have presented him calmly describing to police how he strangled his 10-year-old brother and telling authorities he later stood over his sleeping father with a knife and fought the urge … Original article on : Video shows Indiana teen calmly demonstrating how he strangled 10-year-old brother.

Pakistan’s largest city Karachi gripped by fear, mourning after politician killed in London

Fears of violence in Pakistan after London slaying

KARACHI, Pakistan – The largest city in Pakistan came to a near-halt Friday amid fears of violence following the slaying in London of a senior politician from the city’s ruling party.
Gas stations, schools and markets in Karachi were all closed and no public transport was running as news …. Read the original article  : Pakistan’s largest city Karachi gripped by fear, mourning after politician killed in London.

Johns Hopkins Hospital Shooting

BALTIMORE (GaeaTimes.com)- A 50 year old man by the name of Paul Warren Pardus went hysterical on Thursday morning at Johns Hopkins hospital in Baltimore when the doctor briefed him on his mothers condition after which he shot the doctor in the abdomen. The shooting did not end there, He rushed into his mothers … Read more >>.

Jurors watch videotape of police interview with man accused of DUI crash that killed pitcher

Jurors watch videotape of Gallo police interview

SANTA ANA, Calif. – The man accused of causing the crash that killed a promising Los Angeles Angels pitcher and two others told investigators he was so drunk he couldn’t remember getting in the car, according to a videotaped police interview played in court Thursday.
Andrew Thomas Gallo told investigators …. Original source  : Jurors watch videotape of police interview with man accused of DUI crash that killed pitcher.

Jurors watch videotape of police interview with man accused of DUI crash that killed pitcher

Jurors watch videotape of Gallo police interview

SANTA ANA, Calif. – The man accused of causing the crash that killed a promising Los Angeles Angels pitcher and two others told investigators he was so drunk he couldn’t remember getting in the car, according to a videotaped police interview played in court Thursday.
Andrew Thomas Gallo told investigators …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jurors watch videotape of police interview with man accused of DUI crash that killed pitcher.

26/11 victim’s wife fights for survival

MUMBAI – Two years ago, she would relax after her children left for school. But now she has to take her husband – a victim of the 26/11 attack – to hospital, run around to get compensation and look for a job.Her most immediate worry is which friend will lend her money.

Thirty-one-year-old Baby Chowdhary’s husband …. Original article  : 26/11 victim’s wife fights for survival.

Air India bomber’s jury trial over

VANCOUVER – The crucial jury trial of Air India bomber Inderjit Singh Reyat for lying under oath during the Kanishka case ended here Thursday.

With arguments by lawyers from both sides over, the jurors have now begun deliberating the evidence against the only man convicted in the bombing of the Air India Kanishka flight 182 from … Read more >>.

Guarded praise for Dallas police chief’s response to officers taped beating suspect

Guarded praise for chief’s response to cop beating

DALLAS – The Dallas police chief won guarded praise Thursday for his handling of the release of dashboard camera video that showed white officers hitting a black suspect, but some people disputed his claims that the beating was an isolated incident and not racially motivated.
Chief David Brown released … Original source on Gaea Times at : Guarded praise for Dallas police chief’s response to officers taped beating suspect.

President Chavez discusses anti-Semitism concerns with Jewish leaders in Venezuela

Chavez meets with Venezuela’s Jewish leaders

CARACAS, Venezuela – Leaders of Venezuela’s Jewish community met with President Hugo Chavez on Thursday to discuss their concerns about possible anti-Semitism in state media and to ask the socialist leader to re-establish diplomatic relations with Israel.
The Venezuelan Confederation of Israelite Associations said its representatives gave the president a dossier …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : President Chavez discusses anti-Semitism concerns with Jewish leaders in Venezuela.

Blast in shopping mall in Argentina

Buenos Aires, Sep 17 (IANS/EFE) A bomb went off Thursday at a shopping mall here in the Argentine capital, causing extensive damage to two airlines’ ticket offices, police said.

Leaflets found at the blast scene near the American Airlines and Alitalia offices bore the name of a Chilean group and included demands for the release of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Blast in shopping mall in Argentina.

Brother: Johns Hopkins gunman couldn’t bear seeing mom suffer; police say he killed her, self

Brother: Mother killed at Johns Hopkins suffering

BALTIMORE – The brother of a man who authorities say fatally shot their mother in her bed at Johns Hopkins Hospital, then himself, says his sibling probably thought the 84-year-old woman was suffering.
Police say 50-year-old Paul Warren Pardus on Thursday first shot a surgeon who was treating his mother. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

22 suspected drug gang members killed in battle with Mexican soldiers near US border

22 gunmen killed in battle with Mexican soldiers

MONTERREY, Mexico – A gunbattle between Mexican soldiers and suspected drug cartel members left 22 dead at ranch near the U.S. border, the Defense Department said Thursday.
All the dead were suspected gang members, the department said in a statement. One soldier was injured.
The military said the drug suspects …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 22 suspected drug gang members killed in battle with Mexican soldiers near US border.

‘40-Year-Old Virgin’ actor found guilty of attempted murder in stabbing of ex-girlfriend

Jury finds LA actor guilty of attempted murder

VISTA, Calif. – An actor who appeared in the film “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” was convicted Thursday of the attempted premeditated murder of his ex-girlfriend in a knife attack.
San Diego County jurors also found Shelley Malil guilty of assault with a deadly weapon for stabbing Kendra Beebe more than … Read more »».

Judge hearing Anna Nicole drug case says prosecution case appears to contradict state law

Anna Nicole judge sees flaws in prosecution case

LOS ANGELES – The judge overseeing the drug conspiracy trial of Anna Nicole Smith’s two doctors and lawyer-boyfriend said Thursday he believes part of the prosecution’s case conflicts with state law and could be targeted in a dismissal motion.
Superior Court Judge Robert Perry said outside the presence of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pope meets with UK prime minister; to celebrate Mass at Westminster Cathedral

Pope continues UK tour despite alleged threat

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI has met with British Prime Minister David Cameron as six men arrested in an alleged terror attempt against the pontiff remain in police custody.
Benedict was also meeting with the deputy prime minister and Britain’s opposition leader Saturday before celebrating Mass in Westminster Cathedral.
Benedict is … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pope meets with UK prime minister; to celebrate Mass at Westminster Cathedral.

Ahmadinejad hopeful US will release Iranians it is holding now that Tehran has freed American

Ahmadinejad hopeful US will release Iranians

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran’s president said he is hopeful the United States will release several Iranians it is holding now that Tehran has freed an American jailed for more than a year and accused of spying.
Before setting off for a trip to the U.N. General Assembly, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ahmadinejad hopeful US will release Iranians it is holding now that Tehran has freed American.

Maoists kill Orissa village guard

BHUBANESWAR – Maoists killed a village guard in Orissa’s Malkangiri district early Saturday, accusing him of being a police informer, an official said.

More then 30 armed rebels dragged the guard, Lalit Hantal, from his home in Rajabandha village and killed him in a nearby area, a police officer said citing preliminary information from the region. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Activists plan Los Angeles rally to protest shooting of Guatemalan day laborer

Los Angeles activists to protest police shooting

LOS ANGELES – Activist groups are planning a rally Saturday to protest the recent police shooting of a Guatemalan day laborer whose death sparked several nights of violent street demonstrations.
Manuel Jaminez, 37, was shot in the head Sept. 5 after a brief confrontation with three bicycle-riding Los Angeles police … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Activists plan Los Angeles rally to protest shooting of Guatemalan day laborer.

Youth kills teacher in classroom, commits suicide

LUCKNOW – A youth shot dead a woman teacher inside a classroom before killing himself in Uttar Pradesh’s Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj Nagar district Thursday, police said.

Yar Mohammad (27) first fired at Manisha Singh, while she was teaching class 3 students in the Aerua Primary School in Jamo town and later shot himself dead, police said, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Youth kills teacher in classroom, commits suicide.

Honour killing rocks Haryana, couple killed

JIND – In yet another case of honour killing, a young couple was allegedly killed by the girl’s family members in this Haryana town Monday as they objected to the relationship, police said.

The deceased were identified as Vikas Kumar and Ritu. Though their exact age was not yet known, they were in their early twenties, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lindsay Lohan fails court-ordered substance screening, may have violated probation

Lohan fails court-ordered drug test
LOS ANGELES – Lindsay Lohan has failed a court-ordered drug and alcohol screening test and could face a probation violation that might land her back in jail.

A person familiar with the case, who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the matter, confirmed the positive test results for The … Read more : Lindsay Lohan fails court-ordered substance screening, may have violated probation.

Lindsay Lohan tweets that she failed court-ordered drug screening, willing to face judge

Lohan tweets she failed court-ordered drug test

LOS ANGELES – Lindsay Lohan is confirming on her Twitter page that she has failed a court-ordered drug and alcohol screening.
In a series of messages posted late Friday, the actress said “Regrettably, I did in fact fail my most recent drug test.”
She added that if asked, she’s prepared to …. Source article  : Lindsay Lohan tweets that she failed court-ordered drug screening, willing to face judge.

Rocket strikes Kabul hours before voting

KABUL – A rocket struck this Afghanistan capital hours before polling for the country’s new parliament began Saturday, police said.

According to DPA, no one was injured in the incident, which occurred around 4 a.m. (2330 GMT, Friday), said Abdul Zahir, head of the criminal investigative department of Kabul police.
The rocket struck the state-run …. Original source  : Rocket strikes Kabul hours before voting.

Rocket hits Kabul hours before voting

KABUL – A rocket struck Kabul hours before voting began for Afghanistan’s parliament Saturday, police said.

The pre-dawn attack on the capital city was an apparent attempt of insurgents to scare people from going to the polls, Xinhua reported quoting local police.
About 2,500 candidates are vying for 249 seats in the lower house — Wolesi …. Original article  : Rocket hits Kabul hours before voting.

Police arrest 2nd suspect in killing of employee at Los Angeles medical marijuana dispensary

Police arrest suspect in LA pot dispensary killing

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles police have arrested a second suspect wanted in the killing of an employee at a medical marijuana dispensary.
The Los Angeles Times reports the U.S. Marshal’s Service and Los Angeles police arrested Raymond Easter without incident Friday afternoon at a Van Nuys apartment.
The victim, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police arrest 2nd suspect in killing of employee at Los Angeles medical marijuana dispensary.

District attorney: Hilton to enter plea deal, avoid felony charge in Las Vegas drug arrest

DA: Paris Hilton to avoid felony in Vegas arrest

LAS VEGAS – Paris Hilton has agreed to plead guilty to two misdemeanors stemming from her arrest last month at a Las Vegas resort, a Nevada prosecutor said.
Under the terms of a plea deal worked out with prosecutors, the celebrity heiress will serve a year of probation … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : District attorney: Hilton to enter plea deal, avoid felony charge in Las Vegas drug arrest.

Russell Brand released from custody after altercation with photog at LA International Airport

Brand released from custody after altercation

LOS ANGELES – Russell Brand has been released from custody following his arrest involving an altercation with a photographer.
Police say the 35-year-old British actor-comedian was taken into custody Friday at Los Angeles International Airport for a misdemeanor charge of simple battery, with bail set at $20,000. Airport police spokeswoman Belinda … Original article on : Russell Brand released from custody after altercation with photog at LA International Airport.

Paris Hilton to enter plea agreement, avoid felony charge in Las Vegas drug arrest

Paris Hilton to avoid felony in Las Vegas arrest

LAS VEGAS – Paris Hilton will serve a year of probation and avoid a felony conviction under the terms of a plea deal worked out with prosecutors following her arrest on drug charges in Las Vegas, Clark County District Attorney David Roger said Friday.
Hilton has agreed to …. Read the original article  : here.

District attorney: Paris Hilton to enter plea agreement, avoid jail time in Vegas drug arrest

Paris Hilton to avoid jail in Las Vegas arrest

LAS VEGAS – The district attorney in Las Vegas says Paris Hilton will avoid jail time on drug charges under the terms of a plea deal worked out with prosecutors.
Clark County District Attorney David Roger said Friday Hilton has agreed to plead guilty Monday to two misdemeanors …. Read the original article  : here.

APNewsBreak: Frightened patients, employees call 911, describe moments after hospital shooting

APNewsBreak: 911 calls detail shooting aftermath

BALTIMORE – Deb McKeever was picking up her mother-in-law after surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital when a shot rang out down the hall.
“We all got quiet,” McKeever said Friday. “We were all really nervous, we really had no clue what going on … I was thinking of Virginia Tech, Columbine … Original source on Gaea Times at : APNewsBreak: Frightened patients, employees call 911, describe moments after hospital shooting.

Prosecutor: Teen to plead guilty in killing of mother, testify against former boyfriend

Prosecutor: Teen to plead guilty in killing of mom

PLACERVILLE, Calif. – Prosecutors say a Northern California teen accused of killing her mother has reached a deal that will have her pleading guilty and testifying against her former boyfriend.
Fifteen-year-old Tylar Witt and 20-year-old Steven Colver are accused of killing Witt’s mother, Joanne Witt, in her El …. Source  : Prosecutor: Teen to plead guilty in killing of mother, testify against former boyfriend.

Ind. father woke up, found teen son standing over him the day after he killed young brother

Teen who killed brother fought urge to stab father

RISING SUN, Ind. – A teenager who strangled his 10-year-old brother joked around with his mother the following morning, and later went into his father’s bedroom with a knife and fought the urge to cut his throat, according to video testimony presented Friday at his sentencing hearing.
Shawn … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ind. father woke up, found teen son standing over him the day after he killed young brother.

Russell Brand arrested after altercation with photog at Los Angeles International Airport

Russell Brand arrested after airport altercation

LOS ANGELES – Russell Brand has been arrested following an altercation with a photographer.
The 35-year-old British actor-comedian was taken into custody Friday at Los Angeles International Airport for a misdemeanor charge of simple battery, according to police.
Brand was booked at LAPD’s Pacific Division and initially held on $20,000 bail. He …. Original source  : Russell Brand arrested after altercation with photog at Los Angeles International Airport.

AP Source: Lindsay Lohan fails court-ordered substance screening, may have violated probation

AP Source: Lohan fails court-ordered drug test

LOS ANGELES – Lindsay Lohan has failed a court-ordered drug and alcohol screening test and could face a probation violation that might throw her back in jail.
A person familiar with the case, who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the matter, confirmed the positive test results …. Read the original article  : AP Source: Lindsay Lohan fails court-ordered substance screening, may have violated probation.

Firing at Jama Masjid injures two tourists

NEW DELHI – Unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle opened fire at one of the main gates of the Jama Masjid here Sunday morning, leaving two foreign tourists injured, a shrine official said.

The firing, apparently from an automatic weapon, lasted about a minute and sparked panic in the mammoth 16th-century red sandstone mosque in the city’s … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Firing at Jama Masjid injures two tourists.

Police say gunmen fire at a tourist bus, wounding 2 people outside New Delhi mosque

Police: Gunmen fire at tourist bus in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Two gunmen on a motorcycle shot two tourists Sunday near one of India’s biggest mosques, police said.
The gunmen randomly opened fire near the Jama Masjid, hitting tourists who were in a bus parked near the mosque, police spokesman Rajan Bhagat said. The 17th century mosque …. Original article  : Police say gunmen fire at a tourist bus, wounding 2 people outside New Delhi mosque.

Firing at Jama Masjid, two foreigners injured

NEW DELHI – Two foreign tourists were injured Sunday when gunmen on a motorcycle opened random fire outside the Jama Masjid here, a shrine official said.
… Read more »»».

Natalee Holloway Body Found? Beth Holloway Meets The Suspect

LIMA (GaeaTimes.com)- It has been five years since her daughter Natalee Holloway is missing. Natalee Holloway chapter still remains a mystery as neither her body has been found nor there is any news about her is known. Beth Holloway, the mother of Natalee Holloway has reportedly met Joran van der Sloot, the man suspected … Original article on : Natalee Holloway Body Found? Beth Holloway Meets The Suspect.

Taliban may have ordered MQM leader’s killing in London

LONDON – The Taliban may have ordered the brutal slaying of prominent Pakistani politician and Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) leader Imran Farooq in London, a media report said.

Daily Mail reported Saturday that the Taliban angle emerged as Scotland Yard’s Counter Terrorism Command took charge of the probe from the Murder Squad into the vicious stabbing …. Source  : Taliban may have ordered MQM leader’s killing in London.

Clemson University Student Arrested For Homicide

CLEMSON (Gaea Times.com)- A 25 year old student of Clemson University by the name of Richard Brandon Lewis has been accused and arrested on the charges of homicide by child abuse and homicide by aiding and abetting in child abuse. The Clemson University student has been accused for the death of a 16 month … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Clemson University Student Arrested For Homicide.

Loot and snooze: Burglar amasses jewelry, then falls asleep on homeowners’ couch in Malaysia

Malaysia burglar falls asleep on homeowners’ couch

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Police say a burglar broke into a house in Malaysia to steal watches and jewelry then fell asleep with his loot on the owners’ couch.
The Star and the New Straits Times report when the owners returned to their home in northern Penang state Saturday, they …. Read the original article  : here.

Air India bomber found guilty in perjury trial

VANCOUVER – Inderjit Singh Reyat, the only man convicted in the 1985 Air India Kanishka bombing, faces more time in jail after a jury Saturday found him guilty of perjury during the trial of main suspects Ajaib Singh Bagri and Ripudaman Singh Mailk.

Reyat may be locked for another 14 years behind bars.
The Kanishka flight … Original article on : Air India bomber found guilty in perjury trial.

Texas man accused of shooting sheriff’s deputies tells snipers to make him martyr in standoff

Texas man accused of shooting deputies in custody

DALLAS – A man suspected of shooting two sheriff’s deputies and another man, then taunting snipers to make him a martyr before barricading himself in a makeshift bunker, was arrested Saturday after a 22-hour standoff in western Texas, authorities said.
Victor White, 55, of Odessa, surrendered as SWAT team … Original article on : Texas man accused of shooting sheriff’s deputies tells snipers to make him martyr in standoff.

NATO head vows continuing support for Afghanistan

BRUSSELS – NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen pledged continuing support from the military alliance for Afghanistan after voters chose a new parliament.

“NATO will continue its engagement on behalf of Afghanistan, as the people and government create a secure future for themselves and one that will also bolster international security,” Rasmussen said in a statement distributed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : NATO head vows continuing support for Afghanistan.

Attacker kills St. Lucia man who was waiting to see prime minister; leader not injured

Attacker slays St. Lucia man inside PM’s office

CASTRIES, St. Lucia – Authorities on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia say a gunman walked into the prime minister’s home-district office and killed a man who was waiting to see the government leader.
A police statement says Premier Stephenson King was in the building during Friday’s shooting, but … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Attacker kills St. Lucia man who was waiting to see prime minister; leader not injured.

Armed men kidnap 9 Mexican state lawmen; 2 officers found dead as police, troops hunt for them

Gunmen kidnap 9 Mexican state lawmen, 2 found dead

ACAPULCO, Mexico – Gunmen kidnapped nine police officers investigating a death in the southern Mexican state of Guerrero, and the bodies of two of the lawmen were found later, authorities said Saturday.
Fernando Monreal Leyva, director of the State Investigative Police, said one of his agency’s commanders and …. Read the original article  : Armed men kidnap 9 Mexican state lawmen; 2 officers found dead as police, troops hunt for them.

USA Swimming responds to sexual abuse scandal by approving new measures to protect athletes

USA Swimming approves new protection measures

DALLAS – Responding to a sexual abuse scandal that rocked one of the country’s most prominent Olympic sports, USA Swimming expanded background checks, approved new athlete protection measures and made it mandatory for members to report any credible allegations.
The measures were approved by wide margins Saturday at the group’s annual …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : USA Swimming responds to sexual abuse scandal by approving new measures to protect athletes.

Armed men kidnap 9 Mexican state lawmen; police, troops hunt for them

Armed men kidnap 9 Mexican state lawmen
ACAPULCO, Mexico – Police say that an armed gang has kidnapped nine lawmen in the southern Mexican state of Guerrero.

State Investigative Police Director Fernando Monreal Leyva says one of his agency’s commanders and a team of eight agents had gone to identify and recover a body in a northern …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Armed men kidnap 9 Mexican state lawmen; police, troops hunt for them.

Pitt player arrested on assault charge after early morning fight leaves man with a broken bone

Pitt player arrested on assault charge
PITTSBURGH – Police arrested a University of Pittsburgh football player and charged him with aggravated assault, harassment and disorderly conduct after a dispute left another man with a broken bone.

Twenty-year-old reserve offensive lineman Keith Coleman was arrested just before 2 a.m. Saturday in Pittsburgh. Sgt. James Kohnen says a witness …. Original article  : Pitt player arrested on assault charge after early morning fight leaves man with a broken bone.

Pope meets with sex abuse victims, expresses shame as thousands march in protest in London

Pope meets with abuse victims as thousands protest

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI apologized to five people who were molested by priests as children in his latest effort to defuse the sex abuse crisis shaking his church, as thousands of people angered at the Vatican’s response marched in central London in the biggest protest of his …. Read the original article  : Pope meets with sex abuse victims, expresses shame as thousands march in protest in London.

Feed the Children tries to push forward amid dispute with founder, lawsuits and a state probe

Feed the Children locked in dispute with founder

OKLAHOMA CITY – Larry Jones, a traveling preacher from Oklahoma, gave 20 cents to a hungry child on the streets in Haiti in 1979 and felt more could be done to help starving children.
Over the next 30 years, Jones and his family embraced that ideal. They created Feed … Read more »».

Afghans vote for new parliament despite militant attacks but turnout appears low

Afghans vote despite attacks; turnout appears low

KABUL, Afghanistan – Despite Taliban rocket strikes and bombings, Afghans voted for a new parliament, the first election since a fraud-marred presidential ballot last year cast doubt on the legitimacy of the embattled government.
As officials tally votes over the next few days, the real test begins: Afghans will have … Read : Afghans vote for new parliament despite militant attacks but turnout appears low.

Activists rally in Los Angeles to protest shooting of Guatemalan day laborer

Los Angeles activists protest police shooting

LOS ANGELES – Demonstrators are dispersing after a peaceful rally that began near the spot where a Los Angeles Police officer shot a Guatemalan immigrant who was carrying a knife.
Authorities say there were no arrests and no confrontations during the march Saturday that drew about 250 people to the Rampart … Original article on : Activists rally in Los Angeles to protest shooting of Guatemalan day laborer.

Radical Islam on rise in Balkans, raising fears of security threat to Europe

Radical Islam on rise in Balkans
SKOPJE, Macedonia – An online music video praising Osama bin Laden has driven home a troubling new reality: A radical brand of Islam embraced by al-Qaida and the Taliban is gaining a foothold in the Balkans.

“Oh Osama, annihilate the American army. Oh Osama, raise the Muslims’ honor,” a group of …. Read the original article  : Radical Islam on rise in Balkans, raising fears of security threat to Europe.