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Tag: charges

  • Timothy Busfield’s detention hearing to address sexual misconduct charges in New Mexico

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    COVERAGE YOU CAN COUNT ON KOAT. ACTION SEVEN NEWS AT SIX STARTS RIGHT NOW. IT’S GOING TO BE A REALLY INTERESTING ARGUMENT BEFORE THIS JUDGE FROM BOTH SIDES, ACTOR AND DIRECTOR TIMOTHY BUSFIELD, SCHEDULED FOR COURT TOMORROW. HE’S FACING SEXUAL CHARGES REPORTEDLY INVOLVING TWO CHILD ACTORS WHILE FILMING A TV SHOW IN NEW MEXICO. COREY HOWARD JOINS US LIVE FROM DISTRICT COURT. DOCUMENTS FROM BUSFIELD SUPPORTERS. WELL, TONIGHT, TIMOTHY BUSFIELD REMAINS BEHIND BARS, BUT HE COULD BE A FREE AGAIN TOMORROW, DEPENDING ON THE JUDGE’S RULING. THEY’RE TRYING TO CONVINCE THE JUDGE. THE JUDGE CAN FEEL COMFORTABLE LETTING HIM OUT OF JAIL. OF COURSE, THE PROSECUTION WANTS TO KEEP HIM IN UNTIL HIS TRIAL SETTING, WHICH COULD BE A YEAR OR MORE. AND BOTH SIDES ARE SUBMITTING THEIR SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS. BUZZFEED’S DEFENSE TEAM SAYING THE HOLLYWOOD STAR PASSED A POLYGRAPH TEST AND HAS COLLECTED MORE THAN 70 LETTERS SUPPORTING HIM. ONE OF THE MORE EMOTIONAL LETTERS WRITTEN BY HIS WIFE, MELISSA GILBERT. THE FINAL PARAGRAPH OF THE LETTER ASKING THE JUDGE, PLEASE, PLEASE TAKE CARE OF MY SWEET HUSBAND AS HE IS MY PROTECTOR. I AM HIS, BUT I CANNOT PROTECT HIM NOW. AND I THINK THAT MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE, IS WHAT TRULY IS BREAKING MY HEART. I AM RELYING ON YOU TO PROTECT THEM. FOR ME. KOAT LEGAL EXPERT JOHN DAY, EXPLAINING HOW THIS MIGHT AFFECT THE JUDGE’S DECISION. IT’S GOING TO BE UP TO THE JUDGE TO SAY YES. BUSPAR IS NOT A FLIGHT RISK. HE’S NOT A DANGER TO THE COMMUNITY. HE’S NOT GOING TO COMMIT CRIMES SO I CAN LET HIM OUT OF CUSTODY. PROSECUTORS ARE READY TO REFUTE THOSE CLAIMS, ARGUING BUZZFEED SHOULD REMAIN BEHIND BARS. THEIR SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS SAY THE DEFENDANT POSES A SERIOUS AND ONGOING DANGER, NOT ONLY TO THE NAMED VICTIMS, BUT ANY CHILD IN HIS PROXIMITY. THEY ALSO TALKED ABOUT THE TIMELINESS OF BUZZFEED’S VOLUNTARY SURRENDER, SAYING DESPITE KNOWING ON FRIDAY AFTERNOON THAT A WARRANT HAD BEEN ISSUED FOR HIS ARREST, THE DEFENDANT DID NOT IMMEDIATELY SURRENDER TO LAW ENFORCEMENT. INSTEAD, HE DELAYED FOR APPROXIMATELY FIVE DAYS TRAVELING FROM NEW YORK TO NEW MEXICO TO AVOID THE EXTRADITION PROCESS. NOW, BUZZFEED DETENTION HEARING IS SCHEDULED FOR 2 P.M. TOMORROW, AND KOAT WILL BE STREAMING IT LIVE, REPORTING IN DOWNTOWN ALBUQUERQUE. COREY HOWARD KOAT ACTION SEVEN NEWS. BUZZFEED ATTORNEYS HAVE CALLED 13 WITNESSES TO SPEAK AT THE

    Timothy Busfield’s detention hearing preview, what’s expected

    Updated: 3:23 PM PST Jan 20, 2026

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    Actor and director Timothy Busfield is facing a detention hearing in New Mexico to determine whether he will remain in custody or be released until his trial on charges of sexual misconduct involving two child actors.Video above: What was expected from Timothy Busfield’s detention hearingSince his arrest, Busfield has received substantial support, with more than 70 people advocating for his release. Among the supporters is his wife, Melissa Gilbert, who wrote an emotional letter to the judge, saying, “Please, please, take care of my sweet husband. As he is my protector, I am his, but I cannot protect him now and I think that, more than anything else, is what is truly breaking my heart. I am relying on you to protect him for me.”Prosecutors argue that Busfield poses a “serious and ongoing danger not only to the named victims, but any child in his proximity.” They also criticized the timing of his voluntary surrender, stating, “Despite knowing on Friday afternoon that a warrant had been issued for his arrest, the Defendant did not immediately surrender to law enforcement. Instead, he delayed for approximately five days, traveling from New York to New Mexico to avoid the extradition process.”Busfield’s defense team presented evidence of his character and community support, noting that he passed a polygraph test. They argued, “The overwhelming evidence of character and community support, and the absence of any reliable proof of dangerousness – the State cannot meet its burden of clear and convincing evidence that no conditions of release will reasonably protect the community. The Constitution requires release under appropriate conditions.”The hearing, scheduled for Tuesday, will feature 13 witnesses called by Busfield’s attorneys, including five who worked on “The Cleaning Lady,” filmed in Albuquerque.

    ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —

    Actor and director Timothy Busfield is facing a detention hearing in New Mexico to determine whether he will remain in custody or be released until his trial on charges of sexual misconduct involving two child actors.

    Video above: What was expected from Timothy Busfield’s detention hearing

    Since his arrest, Busfield has received substantial support, with more than 70 people advocating for his release. Among the supporters is his wife, Melissa Gilbert, who wrote an emotional letter to the judge, saying, “Please, please, take care of my sweet husband. As he is my protector, I am his, but I cannot protect him now and I think that, more than anything else, is what is truly breaking my heart. I am relying on you to protect him for me.”

    Prosecutors argue that Busfield poses a “serious and ongoing danger not only to the named victims, but any child in his proximity.” They also criticized the timing of his voluntary surrender, stating, “Despite knowing on Friday afternoon that a warrant had been issued for his arrest, the Defendant did not immediately surrender to law enforcement. Instead, he delayed for approximately five days, traveling from New York to New Mexico to avoid the extradition process.”

    Busfield’s defense team presented evidence of his character and community support, noting that he passed a polygraph test. They argued, “The overwhelming evidence of character and community support, and the absence of any reliable proof of dangerousness – the State cannot meet its burden of clear and convincing evidence that no conditions of release will reasonably protect the community. The Constitution requires release under appropriate conditions.”

    The hearing, scheduled for Tuesday, will feature 13 witnesses called by Busfield’s attorneys, including five who worked on “The Cleaning Lady,” filmed in Albuquerque.

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  • Alleged TriMet Bus Attackers Facing Charges – KXL

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    MULTNOMAH COUNTY, ORE — The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office reports that three men are facing attempted murder charges for allegedly assaulting someone on a TriMet bus.

    Just before 9:00 p.m. on October 15, 2025, Transit Police received reports of three men assaulting a fourth man in the doorway of a bus near Southeast Stark Street and Southeast 142nd Avenue in Portland.

    According to court documents, the three suspects, 28-year-old Greffy Tom, 27-year-old Rinson Tom, and 33-year-old Audric Yesiki, tried to get on the bus, but the alleged suspect felt they delaying the bus from leaving.  He reportedly attempted to intervene somehow, and that’s when the three men are accused of assaulting him.

    When the passenger, only identified by authorities as “a 50-year-old man,” attempted to intervene, the three men are accused of assaulting him.  He was taken to the hospital by paramedics who described his injuries as severe and serious.

    When officers from TriMet’s Transit Police Division arrived at the scene, the suspects had left.  However, they and deputies were able to find all three.  

    On October 24, 2025, a Multnomah County Grand Jury indicted the three suspects on the following charges:

    • Attempted Murder in the Second Degree
    • Three counts of Assault in the First Degree
    • Three counts of Assault in the Second Degree
    • Attempted Assault in the Second Degree
    • Assault in the Third Degree
    • Three counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon
    • Two counts of Interfering with Public Transportation
    • Escape in the Third Degree
    • Attempted Murder in the Second Degree
    • Two counts of Assault in the First Degree
    • Two counts of Assault in the Second Degree
    • Assault in the Third Degree
    • Two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon
    • Two counts of Interfering with Public Transportation
    • Escape in the Third Degree
    • Attempted Murder in the Second Degree
    • Two counts of Assault in the First Degree
    • Two counts of Assault in the Second Degree
    • Assault in the Third Degree
    • Two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon
    • Two counts of Strangulation
    • Two counts of Interfering with Public Transportation
    • Escape in the Third Degree

    All three suspects remain in custody, pending court proceedings.

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    Tim Lantz

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  • Aloha Man Charged, Allegedly Targeted Law Enforcement Helicopters With Laser – KXL

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    Aloha man charged for allegedly pointing laser at federal helicopter. MGN image.

    PORTLAND, OR – The United States Attorney’s Office has announced that Brian Keith Kapileo Nepaial, 38, of Aloha, has been charged for allegedly pointing a laser at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Helicopter and possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.

    According to court documents, a CBP helicopter was struck by a green laser on October 3rd, causing the pilot to abort a planned landing. The flight crew said they observed a person walking near a residence and disappearing.  The Federal Bureau of Investigation is said to have identified the residence, then agents executed a federal search warrant there a week later. Agents say they found a laser in the bedroom of Nepaial.  They also say they discovered over 100 grams of methamphetamine and evidence of drug trafficking.

    “Laser strikes are a serious matter with potentially deadly repercussions. They put the lives of the pilots and the public at risk. Aiming or pointing a laser at an aircraft is a federal crime and will be prosecuted,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

    Aiming a laser pointer is punishable by up to five years in federal prison. Possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute is punishable by up to 40 years in federal prison.

    Kapileo Nepaial is currently in Washington County custody on a parole violation.

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    Tim Lantz

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  • This U.S. Businessman Who Snapped Up Soccer Teams Was Just Charged With Fraud

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    Investing in foreign soccer clubs is an increasingly well-worn page in the entrepreneur playbook. Movie star turned business mogul Ryan Reynolds made the move trendy with his 2021 acquisition of the Welsh team Wrexham AFC, but he’s far from the only businessperson to see the beloved sports institutions as a worthwhile investment.

    Earlier this year, for instance, Inc. spoke with the husband-and-wife co-founders of the staffing company Belay and the Inc. 5000-charting beer company NoFo Brew Co—and they, too, had taken stakes in European soccer clubs.

    But if you’re turning to pro soccer as a place to park your money (or build your personal brand), make sure you don’t get the investor equivalent of a red card pulled on you. That’s one lesson from the story of Josh Wander, an American businessman who, according to multiple reports and a statement by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is now being charged with fraud by U.S. prosecutors.

    Wander co-founded 777 Partners, an investment firm that owned or held stakes in multiple different soccer teams in Australia, Brazil and across Europe, the New York Times reports—but the firm collapsed, and Wander now stands accused of fabricating financial documents and misleading lenders and investors in an effort to defraud them of nearly half a billion dollars.

    Miami-based 777 was once “one of the biggest accumulators of European soccer clubs,” the Times reports, but a lender accused it of fraudulent behavior last year and the firm subsequently saw its British business go bankrupt and American business enter limited receivership.

    Starting in 2018, the FBI says in its statement, Wander began investing money from 777’s primary line of business—in which it underwrote and financed structured settlements related to lawsuits or personal injury claims—into other, less reliable sectors, “including streaming platforms, airlines, and professional sports teams such as Sevilla FC and Genoa CFC.”

    “Despite warnings from employees … and contrary to the terms of the credit facilities, Wander directed that restricted funds from 777 Partners’ lenders be used to cover the firm’s acquisitions and expenses,” the FBI continues. That spending led the investment firm to face “significant cash and collateral shortfalls,” which Wander allegedly tried to conceal “by pledging more than $350 million in assets as collateral to certain lenders, knowing that 777 Partners either did not own the collateral or had already pledged the collateral to other lenders.”

    Wander is also accused of telling 777 employees to alter bank statements to reflect “millions of dollars in cash on hand that the firm did not have.”

    Wander’s lawyer called the charges “a business dispute dressed up as a criminal case” in an email to the Times, adding: “We look forward to setting the record straight.”

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    Brian Contreras

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  • Charges filed against owners of New York boarding facility after 21 dogs found dead

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    Charges have officially been filed after 21 dogs were found dead at a boarding facility in Argyle, New York.Robert and Anastasia Palulis, the owners of Anastasia’s Acres, are facing 22 misdemeanor counts after investigators said the building where the dogs were held did not have proper water access or ventilation.The charges are for overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance, which is considered a misdemeanor under New York State Law, according to court paperwork obtained by sister station WPTZ.One dog was taken to an emergency animal clinic for care.Both owners were released and are due in Argyle court at a later date.The owner of two of the dogs who died said she was devastated by the news of her beloved pets’ deaths.”Their house is literally 30 feet from the kennel where the dogs are boarded,” said Danielle Barber. “So the fact that nobody went out to check on the dogs at any point in time. I’m sure there were dogs barking in distress.”Anastasia’s Acres has been in business since 2020, and provides boarding, day care, training, grooming, and home care services for local dog owners, according to their website.Barber went on to say that she has not heard from either Robert or Anastasia Palulis following the incident.”I hope that she is held responsible… there are 21 dogs involved, it’s just completely unforgivable,” Barber said. “And the fact that she has not reached out in any sort of capacity to offer condolences, remorse, anything speaks volumes.”On Monday, WPTZ reached out to the owners of the business for comment, but they did not respond.

    ARGYLE, N.Y. —

    Charges have officially been filed after 21 dogs were found dead at a boarding facility in Argyle, New York.

    Robert and Anastasia Palulis, the owners of Anastasia’s Acres, are facing 22 misdemeanor counts after investigators said the building where the dogs were held did not have proper water access or ventilation.

    The charges are for overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance, which is considered a misdemeanor under New York State Law, according to court paperwork obtained by sister station WPTZ.

    One dog was taken to an emergency animal clinic for care.

    Both owners were released and are due in Argyle court at a later date.

    via Washington County Sheriff’s Office

    Robert and Anastasia Palulis

    The owner of two of the dogs who died said she was devastated by the news of her beloved pets’ deaths.

    “Their house is literally 30 feet from the kennel where the dogs are boarded,” said Danielle Barber. “So the fact that nobody went out to check on the dogs at any point in time. I’m sure there were dogs barking in distress.”

    Anastasia’s Acres has been in business since 2020, and provides boarding, day care, training, grooming, and home care services for local dog owners, according to their website.

    Barber went on to say that she has not heard from either Robert or Anastasia Palulis following the incident.

    “I hope that she is held responsible… [the fact that] there are 21 dogs involved, it’s just completely unforgivable,” Barber said. “And the fact that she has not reached out in any sort of capacity to offer condolences, remorse, anything speaks volumes.”

    On Monday, WPTZ reached out to the owners of the business for comment, but they did not respond.

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  • Man who allegedly impersonated ICE agent to rob Philly auto shop will face federal charges

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    The man who allegedly posed as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer to rob an auto repair shop in Northeast Philly has racked up two additional charges in federal court.

    Robert Rosado, 54, was apprehended by local authorities earlier this summer following the June 8 robbery of a mechanic shop in Mayfair. Identifying himself as an ICE agent, Rosado allegedly told employees he would be taking undocumented workers into custody and stole about $1,000 from the shop. He also zip-tied the hands of a woman on the premises before he left the scene in an unmarked white van, prosecutors said. 

    MORE: Rapper Skrilla arrested for allegedly assaulting police officer while filming music video in Kensington

    Investigators later traced the car’s license plate information back to Rosado and connected him to two additional properties where they found a fake badge and zip ties.

    Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner announced six felony and six misdemeanor charges against Rosado at a news conference June 23. But the case has since graduated to the national stage. Federal prosecutors said Monday that the defendant will face additional charges of impersonating a federal officer and robbery interfering with interstate commerce. The crimes come with a maximum sentence of 23 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.

    The investigation involved FBI agents with the bureau’s violent crimes task force in Philadelphia, as well as the Philadelphia Police Department. 

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    Kristin Hunt

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  • NYC Mayor Eric Adams indicted following federal investigation

    NYC Mayor Eric Adams indicted following federal investigation

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    New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted by a grand jury on federal criminal charges, according to two people familiar with the matter.Related video above: NYC Schools chancellor to retire after home raidThe indictment detailing the charges against Adams, a Democrat, was still sealed late Wednesday, according to the people, who spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.The U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan declined to comment. The indictment was first reported by The New York Times.“I always knew that If I stood my ground for New Yorkers that I would be a target — and a target I became,” Adams said in a statement that implied he hadn’t been informed of the indictment. “If I am charged, I am innocent and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”In a speech recorded at his official residence, Adams acknowledged that some New Yorkers would question his ability to manage the city while he fights the charges, but he vowed to stay in office.“I have been facing these lies for months … yet the city has continued to improve,” Adams said. “Make no mistake. You elected me to lead this city and lead it I will.”It was not immediately clear when the charges would be made public or when Adams might have to appear in court.The indictment marks a stunning fall for Adams, a former police captain who won election nearly three years ago to become the second Black mayor of the nation’s largest city on a platform that promised a law-and-order approach to reducing crime.For much of the last year, Adams has faced growing legal peril, with multiple federal investigations into top advisers producing a drumbeat of subpoenas, searches and high-level departures that has thrust City Hall into crisis.He had repeatedly said he wasn’t aware of any wrongdoing, dismissing speculation that he would face charges as “rumors and innuendo.”“The people of this city elected me to fight for them, and I will stay and fight no matter what,” Adams said.Adams is the first mayor in New York City history to be indicted while in office. If he were to resign, he would be replaced by the city’s public advocate, Jumaane Williams, who would then schedule a special election.Gov. Kathy Hochul has the power to remove Adams from office. Hochul’s office did not immediately return a request for comment Wednesday night.Hours before the charges were announced, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called on Adams to resign, the first nationally prominent Democrat to do so. She cited the federal criminal investigations into the mayor’s administration and a string of unexpected departures of top city officials.“I do not see how Mayor Adams can continue governing New York City,” Ocasio-Cortez wrote on the social platform X.Adams reacted with scorn, dismissing Ocasio-Cortez as self-righteous.The federal investigations into his administration first emerged publicly on Nov. 2, 2023, when FBI agents conducted an early morning raid on the Brooklyn home of Adams’ chief fundraiser, Brianna Suggs.At the time, Adams insisted he followed the law and said he would be “shocked” if anyone on his campaign had acted illegally. “I cannot tell you how much I start the day with telling my team we’ve got to follow the law,” he told reporters at the time.Days later, FBI agents seized the mayor’s phones and iPad as he was leaving an event in Manhattan. The interaction was disclosed several days later by the mayor’s attorney.Then on Sept. 4, federal investigators seized electronic devices from the city’s police commissioner, schools chancellor, deputy mayor of public safety, first deputy mayor and other trusted confidantes of Adams both in and out of City Hall.Federal prosecutors declined to discuss the investigations but people familiar with elements of the cases described multiple, separate inquiries involving senior Adams aides, relatives of those aides, campaign fundraising and possible influence peddling of the police and fire departments.A week after the searches, Police Commissioner Edward Caban announced his resignation, telling officers that he didn’t want the investigations “to create a distraction.” About two weeks later, Schools Chancellor David Banks announced that he would retire at the end of the year.Adams himself insisted he would keep doing the city’s business and allow the investigations to run their course.Over the summer, federal prosecutors subpoenaed Adams, his campaign arm and City Hall, requesting information about the mayor’s schedule, his overseas travel and potential connections to the Turkish government.Adams spent 22 years in New York City’s police department before going into politics, first as a state senator and then as Brooklyn borough president, a largely ceremonial position.He was elected mayor in 2021, defeating a diverse field of Democrats in the primary and then easily beating Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, a Republican, in the general election.After more than two years in office, Adams’ popularity has declined. While the city has seen an increase in jobs and a drop in certain categories of crime, the administration has been preoccupied with efforts to find housing for tens of thousands of international migrants who overwhelmed the city’s homeless shelters.There has also been a steady drip of accusations and a swirl of suspicion around people close to the mayor.The Manhattan District Attorney brought charges against six people – including a former police captain long close with Adams – over an alleged scheme to funnel tens of thousands of dollars to the mayor’s campaign by manipulating the public matching funds programs in the hopes of receiving preferential treatment from the city. Adams was not accused of wrongdoing in that case.Adams’ former top building-safety official, Eric Ulrich, was charged last year with accepting $150,000 in bribes and improper gifts in exchange for political favors, including providing access to the mayor. Ulrich pleaded not guilty and is fighting the charges.In February, federal investigators searched two properties owned by one of Adams’ close aides, Winnie Greco, who had raised thousands of dollars in campaign donations from the city’s Chinese American communities and later became his director of Asian affairs. Greco hasn’t commented publicly on the FBI searches of her properties and continues to work for the city.When agents seized electronic devices from Caban, the former police commissioner, in early September, they also visited his twin brother, James Caban, a former police officer who runs a nightlife consulting business.Agents also took devices from the schools chancellor; his brother Philip Banks, formerly a top NYPD chief who is now deputy mayor for public safety; their brother Terence Banks, who ran a consulting firm that promised to connect businesses to government stakeholders; and from First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, who is David Banks’ domestic partner.All denied any wrongdoing.While those investigations swirled, federal authorities also searched the homes of newly named interim police commissioner, Thomas Donlan, and seized materials unrelated to his police work. Donlon confirmed the search and said it involved materials that had been in his possession for 20 years. He did not address what the investigation was about, but a person familiar with the investigation said it had to do with classified documents dating from the years when Donlon worked for the FBI. The person spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to speak publicly about that investigation.

    New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted by a grand jury on federal criminal charges, according to two people familiar with the matter.

    Related video above: NYC Schools chancellor to retire after home raid

    The indictment detailing the charges against Adams, a Democrat, was still sealed late Wednesday, according to the people, who spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.

    The U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan declined to comment. The indictment was first reported by The New York Times.

    “I always knew that If I stood my ground for New Yorkers that I would be a target — and a target I became,” Adams said in a statement that implied he hadn’t been informed of the indictment. “If I am charged, I am innocent and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”

    In a speech recorded at his official residence, Adams acknowledged that some New Yorkers would question his ability to manage the city while he fights the charges, but he vowed to stay in office.

    “I have been facing these lies for months … yet the city has continued to improve,” Adams said. “Make no mistake. You elected me to lead this city and lead it I will.”

    It was not immediately clear when the charges would be made public or when Adams might have to appear in court.

    The indictment marks a stunning fall for Adams, a former police captain who won election nearly three years ago to become the second Black mayor of the nation’s largest city on a platform that promised a law-and-order approach to reducing crime.

    For much of the last year, Adams has faced growing legal peril, with multiple federal investigations into top advisers producing a drumbeat of subpoenas, searches and high-level departures that has thrust City Hall into crisis.

    He had repeatedly said he wasn’t aware of any wrongdoing, dismissing speculation that he would face charges as “rumors and innuendo.”

    “The people of this city elected me to fight for them, and I will stay and fight no matter what,” Adams said.

    Adams is the first mayor in New York City history to be indicted while in office. If he were to resign, he would be replaced by the city’s public advocate, Jumaane Williams, who would then schedule a special election.

    Gov. Kathy Hochul has the power to remove Adams from office. Hochul’s office did not immediately return a request for comment Wednesday night.

    Hours before the charges were announced, U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called on Adams to resign, the first nationally prominent Democrat to do so. She cited the federal criminal investigations into the mayor’s administration and a string of unexpected departures of top city officials.

    “I do not see how Mayor Adams can continue governing New York City,” Ocasio-Cortez wrote on the social platform X.

    Adams reacted with scorn, dismissing Ocasio-Cortez as self-righteous.

    The federal investigations into his administration first emerged publicly on Nov. 2, 2023, when FBI agents conducted an early morning raid on the Brooklyn home of Adams’ chief fundraiser, Brianna Suggs.

    At the time, Adams insisted he followed the law and said he would be “shocked” if anyone on his campaign had acted illegally. “I cannot tell you how much I start the day with telling my team we’ve got to follow the law,” he told reporters at the time.

    Days later, FBI agents seized the mayor’s phones and iPad as he was leaving an event in Manhattan. The interaction was disclosed several days later by the mayor’s attorney.

    Then on Sept. 4, federal investigators seized electronic devices from the city’s police commissioner, schools chancellor, deputy mayor of public safety, first deputy mayor and other trusted confidantes of Adams both in and out of City Hall.

    Federal prosecutors declined to discuss the investigations but people familiar with elements of the cases described multiple, separate inquiries involving senior Adams aides, relatives of those aides, campaign fundraising and possible influence peddling of the police and fire departments.

    A week after the searches, Police Commissioner Edward Caban announced his resignation, telling officers that he didn’t want the investigations “to create a distraction.” About two weeks later, Schools Chancellor David Banks announced that he would retire at the end of the year.

    Adams himself insisted he would keep doing the city’s business and allow the investigations to run their course.

    Over the summer, federal prosecutors subpoenaed Adams, his campaign arm and City Hall, requesting information about the mayor’s schedule, his overseas travel and potential connections to the Turkish government.

    Adams spent 22 years in New York City’s police department before going into politics, first as a state senator and then as Brooklyn borough president, a largely ceremonial position.

    He was elected mayor in 2021, defeating a diverse field of Democrats in the primary and then easily beating Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, a Republican, in the general election.

    After more than two years in office, Adams’ popularity has declined. While the city has seen an increase in jobs and a drop in certain categories of crime, the administration has been preoccupied with efforts to find housing for tens of thousands of international migrants who overwhelmed the city’s homeless shelters.

    There has also been a steady drip of accusations and a swirl of suspicion around people close to the mayor.

    The Manhattan District Attorney brought charges against six people – including a former police captain long close with Adams – over an alleged scheme to funnel tens of thousands of dollars to the mayor’s campaign by manipulating the public matching funds programs in the hopes of receiving preferential treatment from the city. Adams was not accused of wrongdoing in that case.

    Adams’ former top building-safety official, Eric Ulrich, was charged last year with accepting $150,000 in bribes and improper gifts in exchange for political favors, including providing access to the mayor. Ulrich pleaded not guilty and is fighting the charges.

    In February, federal investigators searched two properties owned by one of Adams’ close aides, Winnie Greco, who had raised thousands of dollars in campaign donations from the city’s Chinese American communities and later became his director of Asian affairs. Greco hasn’t commented publicly on the FBI searches of her properties and continues to work for the city.

    When agents seized electronic devices from Caban, the former police commissioner, in early September, they also visited his twin brother, James Caban, a former police officer who runs a nightlife consulting business.

    Agents also took devices from the schools chancellor; his brother Philip Banks, formerly a top NYPD chief who is now deputy mayor for public safety; their brother Terence Banks, who ran a consulting firm that promised to connect businesses to government stakeholders; and from First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, who is David Banks’ domestic partner.

    All denied any wrongdoing.

    While those investigations swirled, federal authorities also searched the homes of newly named interim police commissioner, Thomas Donlan, and seized materials unrelated to his police work. Donlon confirmed the search and said it involved materials that had been in his possession for 20 years. He did not address what the investigation was about, but a person familiar with the investigation said it had to do with classified documents dating from the years when Donlon worked for the FBI. The person spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to speak publicly about that investigation.

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  • What’s next in the federal investigation into Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and his alleged co-conspirators

    What’s next in the federal investigation into Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and his alleged co-conspirators

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    Sean “Diddy” Combs, who was arrested this week on charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, pleaded not guilty Tuesday and was ordered to remain in custody until his federal trial in New York.So what comes next for the 54-year-old music mogul? And what about the unnamed employees and associates accused of conspiring with him?Damian Williams, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York who brought the indictment, was vague when asked whether Diddy or others could face more charges.”I can’t take anything off the table. Anything is possible,” he said. “Our investigation is very active and ongoing, and I think a lot of you who cover this office know that when we say such things, that developments are certainly foreseeable, but I cannot predict them sitting here today.”Multiple witnesses who have worked for Combs have been meeting with prosecutors, a source familiar with the federal investigation told CNN. At least one male sex worker is expected to testify in front of the grand jury in coming days, according to the source, who added the witnesses’ allegations go beyond the details in this week’s indictment.Prosecutors have previously said they have interviewed over 50 victims and witnesses in the case.CNN spoke to several legal experts to try to understand what lies ahead for Combs and for those in his orbit. The experts do not expect a plea deal for the music mogul, noting the accusations against him could expand further.”I will be very curious, especially since he’s being held without bail, if that gives other survivors the courage to come forward,” said Shea Rhodes, director of the Villanova Law Institute to Address Commercial Sexual Exploitation.As for the people alleged to be part of Combs’ criminal enterprise, experts highlighted the prosecution’s difficult questions on whether to charge them or get them to testify against him.”The prosecution is going to have to deal with witnesses with a rough past or who are admitting to engaging in criminal activity,” said trial attorney Misty Marris. “You’ve got a lot of people with dirty hands in a racketeering case.”What’s next for CombsThe path ahead for Combs was set in motion by a series of legal decisions the past few days.Combs, 54, pleaded not guilty Tuesday to federal charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. The indictment alleges he “abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct.” It also states that he formed a criminal enterprise that engaged in “sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.”He faces a sentence of up to life in prison if convicted of the racketeering conspiracy charge. The sex trafficking charge comes with a statutory minimum of 15 years.He will remain in federal custody ahead of his trial after his lawyers failed Wednesday in their appeal of a judge’s decision denying him bail. In his ruling, Judge Andrew Carter said there were no conditions that reduced the risk of witness tampering or obstruction. Combs’ attorney Marc Agnifilo told CNN he will again appeal the ruling.While many federal cases result in plea deals, Agnifilo said that’s not likely between Combs and prosecutors here and said he planned to take the case to trial. “I believe he’s innocent of the charges, and he is going to go to trial, and I believe he’s going to win,” he told CNN on Tuesday.Marris said a plea deal is unlikely in part because of the 15-year mandatory minimum sentence for the sex trafficking charge.”I think what the defense is really saying is, ‘OK we’re going to take it to trial because any plea deal would be unlikely to be so favorable,’” she said. “We’re talking about charges that carry a minimum of 15 years. The idea that a plea deal is going to be something that will have a not-so-severe punishment is just really not in the cards for this case.”Further, Combs could potentially face more accusations of wrongdoing. Prosecutors have said the investigation remains “active and ongoing.” And they have issued a public call for any potential victims to reach out to authorities.It will be difficult for victims to come forward in this case, particularly given the allegations of violence for those who sought to speak out in the past, according to Rhodes.”It’s shame and fear of whether or not you’re going to be believed. (Also) if these allegations about how he had just really engaged his entire organization in covering up what was going on, who is not behind bars that can carry out additional intimidation tactics or instill additional fear in survivors who do want to come forward?” she said.Even so, don’t expect more counts against Combs, said CNN senior legal analyst Elie Honig. That’s because the racketeering conspiracy charge is so broad that it encompasses a host of different types of wrongdoing, including, according to the indictment, “sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.”What’s next for those around himThe federal indictment against Combs alleges he was part of a sprawling conspiracy with staff, assistants, supervisors and associates to commit racketeering from 2008 until now.According to the indictment, the “Combs Enterprise” consisted of Combs, the leader; business entities, including his record label Bad Boy Entertainment; and employees and associates, including security staff, household staff, personal assistants and high-ranking supervisors.”Members and associates of the Combs Enterprise engaged in, and attempted to engage in, among other activities, sex trafficking, forced labor, interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution, coercion and enticement to engage in prostitution, narcotics offenses, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice,” the indictment states.Despite those serious accusations, he is the only one facing charges. Why?Several legal experts said the lack of charges for those around Combs indicated they may be cooperating with the prosecution.”You have other people who you could say were his enablers, who are not being looked at by the government, who are looking at helping the government prove their case,” said CNN legal analyst Joey Jackson.Prosecutors could choose to grant these alleged co-conspirators immunity or non-prosecution agreements to get them to testify against Combs, Marris said.”The reason prosecutors would do that is because the target in this case is Diddy,” Marris said. “In order to have a rock solid case against him, the information is necessary and the testimony is necessary.”In addition, the lines between victim, witness and offender can be surprisingly blurry. Rhodes called this the “victim-offender overlap” and noted it’s particularly pronounced in sexual violence and sex trafficking cases.In Ghislaine Maxwell’s sex trafficking case, for example, several of the women who testified as victims said they had also recruited others to join in the sexual encounters.”Just because a prosecutor can charge someone as a co-conspirator, doesn’t mean that they should,” Rhodes said. “(Prosecutors) could have charged one of those victims as a co-conspirator for recruiting, but that’s not appropriate.”Were some of Combs’ alleged co-conspirators also victims of other violence? The Combs indictment indicates so, stating that one purpose of the criminal enterprise was “securing absolute loyalty from members of the Combs Enterprise, including through acts of violence and threats.”The best guide for Combs’ path ahead is to examine another recent racketeering case.Nadia Shihata, a former federal prosecutor who brought the racketeering case against the singer R. Kelly, told CNN there may or may not be others charged in Combs’ case.”Certainly, additional people could be charged. It’s also possible that additional people have already been charged, pled guilty and are cooperating in the case,” she said. “The fact that it’s a racketeering indictment that relies on an enterprise, though, doesn’t necessarily mean there will be additional people charged.”For example, in R. Kelly’s case – which Shihata acknowledged had some key similarities to Diddy’s – no one else was charged with racketeering. At trial, some of his former employees testified against him, including a general assistant and a tour manager. Kelly was ultimately found guilty.In general, prosecutors have the discretion to decide how wide to cast their net in racketeering cases, Honig said.”You can decide to just charge everyone. Or you can decide to just aim for the top players here,” he said. “(You can say,) ‘I’m gonna focus my resources and attention on the bosses, the heavy hitters and not gonna weigh this indictment down with more peripheral players.’”

    Sean “Diddy” Combs, who was arrested this week on charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, pleaded not guilty Tuesday and was ordered to remain in custody until his federal trial in New York.

    So what comes next for the 54-year-old music mogul? And what about the unnamed employees and associates accused of conspiring with him?

    Damian Williams, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York who brought the indictment, was vague when asked whether Diddy or others could face more charges.

    “I can’t take anything off the table. Anything is possible,” he said. “Our investigation is very active and ongoing, and I think a lot of you who cover this office know that when we say such things, that developments are certainly foreseeable, but I cannot predict them sitting here today.”

    Multiple witnesses who have worked for Combs have been meeting with prosecutors, a source familiar with the federal investigation told CNN. At least one male sex worker is expected to testify in front of the grand jury in coming days, according to the source, who added the witnesses’ allegations go beyond the details in this week’s indictment.

    Prosecutors have previously said they have interviewed over 50 victims and witnesses in the case.

    CNN spoke to several legal experts to try to understand what lies ahead for Combs and for those in his orbit. The experts do not expect a plea deal for the music mogul, noting the accusations against him could expand further.

    “I will be very curious, especially since he’s being held without bail, if that gives other survivors the courage to come forward,” said Shea Rhodes, director of the Villanova Law Institute to Address Commercial Sexual Exploitation.

    As for the people alleged to be part of Combs’ criminal enterprise, experts highlighted the prosecution’s difficult questions on whether to charge them or get them to testify against him.

    “The prosecution is going to have to deal with witnesses with a rough past or who are admitting to engaging in criminal activity,” said trial attorney Misty Marris. “You’ve got a lot of people with dirty hands in a racketeering case.”

    What’s next for Combs

    The path ahead for Combs was set in motion by a series of legal decisions the past few days.

    Combs, 54, pleaded not guilty Tuesday to federal charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. The indictment alleges he “abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct.” It also states that he formed a criminal enterprise that engaged in “sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.”

    He faces a sentence of up to life in prison if convicted of the racketeering conspiracy charge. The sex trafficking charge comes with a statutory minimum of 15 years.

    He will remain in federal custody ahead of his trial after his lawyers failed Wednesday in their appeal of a judge’s decision denying him bail. In his ruling, Judge Andrew Carter said there were no conditions that reduced the risk of witness tampering or obstruction.

    Combs’ attorney Marc Agnifilo told CNN he will again appeal the ruling.

    While many federal cases result in plea deals, Agnifilo said that’s not likely between Combs and prosecutors here and said he planned to take the case to trial. “I believe he’s innocent of the charges, and he is going to go to trial, and I believe he’s going to win,” he told CNN on Tuesday.

    Marris said a plea deal is unlikely in part because of the 15-year mandatory minimum sentence for the sex trafficking charge.

    “I think what the defense is really saying is, ‘OK we’re going to take it to trial because any plea deal would be unlikely to be so favorable,’” she said. “We’re talking about charges that carry a minimum of 15 years. The idea that a plea deal is going to be something that will have a not-so-severe punishment is just really not in the cards for this case.”

    Further, Combs could potentially face more accusations of wrongdoing. Prosecutors have said the investigation remains “active and ongoing.” And they have issued a public call for any potential victims to reach out to authorities.

    It will be difficult for victims to come forward in this case, particularly given the allegations of violence for those who sought to speak out in the past, according to Rhodes.

    “It’s shame and fear of whether or not you’re going to be believed. (Also) if these allegations about how he had just really engaged his entire organization in covering up what was going on, who is not behind bars that can carry out additional intimidation tactics or instill additional fear in survivors who do want to come forward?” she said.

    Even so, don’t expect more counts against Combs, said CNN senior legal analyst Elie Honig. That’s because the racketeering conspiracy charge is so broad that it encompasses a host of different types of wrongdoing, including, according to the indictment, “sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.”

    What’s next for those around him

    The federal indictment against Combs alleges he was part of a sprawling conspiracy with staff, assistants, supervisors and associates to commit racketeering from 2008 until now.

    According to the indictment, the “Combs Enterprise” consisted of Combs, the leader; business entities, including his record label Bad Boy Entertainment; and employees and associates, including security staff, household staff, personal assistants and high-ranking supervisors.

    “Members and associates of the Combs Enterprise engaged in, and attempted to engage in, among other activities, sex trafficking, forced labor, interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution, coercion and enticement to engage in prostitution, narcotics offenses, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice,” the indictment states.

    Despite those serious accusations, he is the only one facing charges. Why?

    Several legal experts said the lack of charges for those around Combs indicated they may be cooperating with the prosecution.

    “You have other people who you could say were his enablers, who are not being looked at by the government, who are looking at helping the government prove their case,” said CNN legal analyst Joey Jackson.

    Prosecutors could choose to grant these alleged co-conspirators immunity or non-prosecution agreements to get them to testify against Combs, Marris said.

    “The reason prosecutors would do that is because the target in this case is Diddy,” Marris said. “In order to have a rock solid case against him, the information is necessary and the testimony is necessary.”

    In addition, the lines between victim, witness and offender can be surprisingly blurry. Rhodes called this the “victim-offender overlap” and noted it’s particularly pronounced in sexual violence and sex trafficking cases.

    In Ghislaine Maxwell’s sex trafficking case, for example, several of the women who testified as victims said they had also recruited others to join in the sexual encounters.

    “Just because a prosecutor can charge someone as a co-conspirator, doesn’t mean that they should,” Rhodes said. “(Prosecutors) could have charged one of those victims as a co-conspirator for recruiting, but that’s not appropriate.”

    Were some of Combs’ alleged co-conspirators also victims of other violence? The Combs indictment indicates so, stating that one purpose of the criminal enterprise was “securing absolute loyalty from members of the Combs Enterprise, including through acts of violence and threats.”

    The best guide for Combs’ path ahead is to examine another recent racketeering case.

    Nadia Shihata, a former federal prosecutor who brought the racketeering case against the singer R. Kelly, told CNN there may or may not be others charged in Combs’ case.

    “Certainly, additional people could be charged. It’s also possible that additional people have already been charged, pled guilty and are cooperating in the case,” she said. “The fact that it’s a racketeering indictment that relies on an enterprise, though, doesn’t necessarily mean there will be additional people charged.”

    For example, in R. Kelly’s case – which Shihata acknowledged had some key similarities to Diddy’s – no one else was charged with racketeering. At trial, some of his former employees testified against him, including a general assistant and a tour manager. Kelly was ultimately found guilty.

    In general, prosecutors have the discretion to decide how wide to cast their net in racketeering cases, Honig said.

    “You can decide to just charge everyone. Or you can decide to just aim for the top players here,” he said. “(You can say,) ‘I’m gonna focus my resources and attention on the bosses, the heavy hitters and not gonna weigh this indictment down with more peripheral players.’”

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  • Police say a man will face charges after storming into the press area at a Trump rally

    Police say a man will face charges after storming into the press area at a Trump rally

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    Police said Saturday that a man will face misdemeanor charges after he stormed into the press area at Donald Trump’s rally in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, before being surrounded by authorities and eventually subdued with a Taser as the former president spoke at the campaign stop.The incident Friday came moments after Trump had criticized major media outlets for what he said was unfavorable coverage and had dismissed CNN as fawning for its interview Thursday with his Democratic rival Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz.It was not immediately clear what motivated the man or whether he was a Trump supporter or critic.The man made it over a barrier ringing the media area and began climbing the back side of a riser where television reporters and cameras were stationed, according to a video of the incident posted to social media by a reporter for CBS News. People near him tried to pull him off the riser and were quickly joined by police officers and sheriff’s deputies.The crowd cheered as a pack of police led the man away, prompting Trump to say, “Is there anywhere that’s more fun to be than a Trump rally?”Johnstown’s police chief, Richard M. Pritchard, confirmed to The Associated Press on Saturday that the man was arrested, released and will be formally charged next week. Pritchard said the man, whose identity will be disclosed when charges are filed, will face misdemeanors in municipal court for alleged disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and disrupting a public assembly.Pritchard, who was not directly involved in the arrest, declined to speculate on the man’s motives.Fierce criticism of the media is a standard part of Trump’s rally speeches, and his supporters often react by turning toward the press section and booing; some use their middle finger to demonstrate their distaste for journalists.Moments before the man ventured into the media’s designated section, Trump had reprised his familiar assertion that the media is a collective “enemy of the people.” Video of the incident does not make clear what the man was yelling as he climbed barriers or as he was being subdued and arrested.Trump’s campaign tried to distance the former president from the man and his actions, suggesting he was a Trump opponent.“Witnesses, including some in the press corps, described a crazed individual shouting expletives at President Trump,” said campaign senior adviser Danielle Alvarez. “His aggression was focused on the president and towards the stage as he entered the press area.”Alvarez did not identify the witnesses she cited or expound on what the man may have shouted. Alvarez added that the campaign appreciates the response of local law enforcement officials and the U.S. Secret Service for acting quickly.Shortly after the incident, police handcuffed another man in the crowd and led him out of the arena. It was not immediately clear whether that detention was related to the initial altercation.The incident happened amid heightened scrutiny of security at Trump rallies after a gunman fired at him, grazing his ear, during an outdoor rally in July in nearby Butler, Pennsylvania. Security at political events has been noticeably tighter since the shooting.A Secret Service spokesperson referred questions to local authorities.

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. —

    Police said Saturday that a man will face misdemeanor charges after he stormed into the press area at Donald Trump’s rally in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, before being surrounded by authorities and eventually subdued with a Taser as the former president spoke at the campaign stop.

    The incident Friday came moments after Trump had criticized major media outlets for what he said was unfavorable coverage and had dismissed CNN as fawning for its interview Thursday with his Democratic rival Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz.

    It was not immediately clear what motivated the man or whether he was a Trump supporter or critic.

    The man made it over a barrier ringing the media area and began climbing the back side of a riser where television reporters and cameras were stationed, according to a video of the incident posted to social media by a reporter for CBS News. People near him tried to pull him off the riser and were quickly joined by police officers and sheriff’s deputies.

    The crowd cheered as a pack of police led the man away, prompting Trump to say, “Is there anywhere that’s more fun to be than a Trump rally?”

    Johnstown’s police chief, Richard M. Pritchard, confirmed to The Associated Press on Saturday that the man was arrested, released and will be formally charged next week. Pritchard said the man, whose identity will be disclosed when charges are filed, will face misdemeanors in municipal court for alleged disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and disrupting a public assembly.

    Pritchard, who was not directly involved in the arrest, declined to speculate on the man’s motives.

    Fierce criticism of the media is a standard part of Trump’s rally speeches, and his supporters often react by turning toward the press section and booing; some use their middle finger to demonstrate their distaste for journalists.

    Moments before the man ventured into the media’s designated section, Trump had reprised his familiar assertion that the media is a collective “enemy of the people.” Video of the incident does not make clear what the man was yelling as he climbed barriers or as he was being subdued and arrested.

    Trump’s campaign tried to distance the former president from the man and his actions, suggesting he was a Trump opponent.

    “Witnesses, including some in the press corps, described a crazed individual shouting expletives at President Trump,” said campaign senior adviser Danielle Alvarez. “His aggression was focused on the president and towards the stage as he entered the press area.”

    Alvarez did not identify the witnesses she cited or expound on what the man may have shouted. Alvarez added that the campaign appreciates the response of local law enforcement officials and the U.S. Secret Service for acting quickly.

    Shortly after the incident, police handcuffed another man in the crowd and led him out of the arena. It was not immediately clear whether that detention was related to the initial altercation.

    The incident happened amid heightened scrutiny of security at Trump rallies after a gunman fired at him, grazing his ear, during an outdoor rally in July in nearby Butler, Pennsylvania. Security at political events has been noticeably tighter since the shooting.

    A Secret Service spokesperson referred questions to local authorities.

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  • Three people charged for allegedly smuggling weapons, phones and drugs into Philly prison

    Three people charged for allegedly smuggling weapons, phones and drugs into Philly prison

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    Three people were indicted Thursday on federal charges with bribery for allegedly conspiring to smuggle weapons, narcotics and phones into the Philadelphia Industrial Correctional Center in Holmesburg.

    Breyanna Cornish, 29, and Jawayne Brown, 40, of Philadelphia, allegedly plotted with Ahmad Nasir, 43, an inmate currently at SCI Greene, a maximum-security prison in Franklin Township, Pennsylvania.

    MORE: Whizz to begin renting electronic bikes for delivery riders in Philly in September

    Brown and Nasir received additional charges for conspiracy to possess Suboxone with intent to distribute. The Schedule III controlled substance is typically used to treat opioid addiction.

    The trio now face potentially lengthy sentences and hefty fines. If convicted, Cornish could spend up 15 years in prison and pay a $500,000 fine, while Brown would face a maximum sentence of 25 years and a $1 million fine. Nasir faces the steepest sentence, with a possible 35 years’ imprisonment and $1.5 million fine.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office did not release further details on the alleged conspiracy. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the case.

    Follow Kristin & PhillyVoice on Twitter: @kristin_hunt
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    Have a news tip? Let us know.

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  • Russia seeks 18-year prison sentence for US reporter on trial on espionage charges

    Russia seeks 18-year prison sentence for US reporter on trial on espionage charges

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    Russian prosecutors sought a prison sentence of 18 years on Friday for Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who is on trial on espionage charges that his employer and the U.S. have denounced as fabricated.Video above: State Department comments on Evan GershkovichGershkovich, 32, was arrested March 29, 2023, while on a reporting trip to the Ural Mountains city of Yekaterinburg. Authorities claimed, without offering any evidence, that he was gathering secret information for the U.S. He pleaded not guilty, according to the court, and The Wall Street Journal and the U.S. government have called the trial a sham.Gershkovich appeared in court for a second straight day Friday as the closed-door proceedings in Russia’s highly politicized legal system picked up speed. A verdict is expected later in the day, according to court officials.Unlike previous sessions in which reporters were allowed to see Gershkovich briefly before sessions began, there was no access to the courtroom this week and he was not seen, with no explanation given. Espionage and treason cases are typically shrouded in secrecy.Court officials said the prosecutors requested an 18-year sentence in a high-security prison during closing arguments. Russian courts convict more than 99% of defendants, and prosecutors can appeal sentences that they regard as too lenient. They even can appeal acquittals.“Evan’s wrongful detention has been an outrage since his unjust arrest 477 days ago, and it must end now,” the Journal said Thursday in a statement. “Even as Russia orchestrates its shameful sham trial, we continue to do everything we can to push for Evan’s immediate release and to state unequivocally: Evan was doing his job as a journalist, and journalism is not a crime. Bring him home now.”The U.S. State Department has declared Gershkovich “wrongfully detained,” committing the government to assertively seek his release.Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday at the United Nations that Moscow and Washington’s “special services” are discussing an exchange involving Gershkovich. Russia has previously signaled the possibility of a swap, but it says a verdict would have to come first. Even after a verdict, any such deal could take months or years.State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel on Thursday declined to discuss negotiations about a possible exchange, but said: “We have been clear from the get-go that Evan did nothing wrong and should not have been detained. To date, Russia has provided no evidence of a crime and has failed to justify Evan’s continued detention.”Gershkovich’s trial began June 26 in Yekaterinburg after he spent about 15 months in in Moscow’s notorious Lefortovo Prison.The Russian Prosecutor General’s office said last month the journalist is accused of “gathering secret information” on orders from the CIA about Uralvagonzavod, a plant about 150 kilometers (90 miles) north of Yekaterinburg that produces and repairs tanks and other military equipment.Lavrov on Wednesday reaffirmed the Kremlin claim that the government has “irrefutable evidence” against Gershkovich, although neither he nor any other Russian official has ever disclosed it.Gershkovich’s employer and U.S. officials have dismissed the charges as phony.“Evan has never been employed by the United States government. Evan is not a spy. Journalism is not a crime. And Evan should never have been detained in the first place,” White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said last month.Russia’s interpretation of what constitutes high crimes like espionage and treason is broad, with authorities often going after people who share publicly available information with foreigners and accusing them of divulging state secrets.Earlier this month, U.N. human rights experts said Russia violated international law by jailing Gershkovich and should release him “immediately.”Arrests of Americans are increasingly common in Russia, with nine U.S. citizens known to be detained there as tensions between the two countries have escalated over fighting in Ukraine.U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield accused Moscow of treating “human beings as bargaining chips.” She singled out Gershkovich and ex-Marine Paul Whelan, 53, a corporate security director from Michigan, who is serving a 16-year sentence after being convicted on spying charges that he and the U.S. denied.

    YEKATERINBURG, Russia —

    Russian prosecutors sought a prison sentence of 18 years on Friday for Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who is on trial on espionage charges that his employer and the U.S. have denounced as fabricated.

    Video above: State Department comments on Evan Gershkovich

    Gershkovich, 32, was arrested March 29, 2023, while on a reporting trip to the Ural Mountains city of Yekaterinburg. Authorities claimed, without offering any evidence, that he was gathering secret information for the U.S. He pleaded not guilty, according to the court, and The Wall Street Journal and the U.S. government have called the trial a sham.

    Gershkovich appeared in court for a second straight day Friday as the closed-door proceedings in Russia’s highly politicized legal system picked up speed. A verdict is expected later in the day, according to court officials.

    Unlike previous sessions in which reporters were allowed to see Gershkovich briefly before sessions began, there was no access to the courtroom this week and he was not seen, with no explanation given. Espionage and treason cases are typically shrouded in secrecy.

    Court officials said the prosecutors requested an 18-year sentence in a high-security prison during closing arguments. Russian courts convict more than 99% of defendants, and prosecutors can appeal sentences that they regard as too lenient. They even can appeal acquittals.

    “Evan’s wrongful detention has been an outrage since his unjust arrest 477 days ago, and it must end now,” the Journal said Thursday in a statement. “Even as Russia orchestrates its shameful sham trial, we continue to do everything we can to push for Evan’s immediate release and to state unequivocally: Evan was doing his job as a journalist, and journalism is not a crime. Bring him home now.”

    The U.S. State Department has declared Gershkovich “wrongfully detained,” committing the government to assertively seek his release.

    Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday at the United Nations that Moscow and Washington’s “special services” are discussing an exchange involving Gershkovich. Russia has previously signaled the possibility of a swap, but it says a verdict would have to come first. Even after a verdict, any such deal could take months or years.

    State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel on Thursday declined to discuss negotiations about a possible exchange, but said: “We have been clear from the get-go that Evan did nothing wrong and should not have been detained. To date, Russia has provided no evidence of a crime and has failed to justify Evan’s continued detention.”

    Gershkovich’s trial began June 26 in Yekaterinburg after he spent about 15 months in in Moscow’s notorious Lefortovo Prison.

    The Russian Prosecutor General’s office said last month the journalist is accused of “gathering secret information” on orders from the CIA about Uralvagonzavod, a plant about 150 kilometers (90 miles) north of Yekaterinburg that produces and repairs tanks and other military equipment.

    Lavrov on Wednesday reaffirmed the Kremlin claim that the government has “irrefutable evidence” against Gershkovich, although neither he nor any other Russian official has ever disclosed it.

    Gershkovich’s employer and U.S. officials have dismissed the charges as phony.

    “Evan has never been employed by the United States government. Evan is not a spy. Journalism is not a crime. And Evan should never have been detained in the first place,” White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said last month.

    Russia’s interpretation of what constitutes high crimes like espionage and treason is broad, with authorities often going after people who share publicly available information with foreigners and accusing them of divulging state secrets.

    Earlier this month, U.N. human rights experts said Russia violated international law by jailing Gershkovich and should release him “immediately.”

    Arrests of Americans are increasingly common in Russia, with nine U.S. citizens known to be detained there as tensions between the two countries have escalated over fighting in Ukraine.

    U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield accused Moscow of treating “human beings as bargaining chips.” She singled out Gershkovich and ex-Marine Paul Whelan, 53, a corporate security director from Michigan, who is serving a 16-year sentence after being convicted on spying charges that he and the U.S. denied.

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  • Could Donald Trump’s Revenge Fantasies Come Back to Bite Him?

    Could Donald Trump’s Revenge Fantasies Come Back to Bite Him?

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    Is Donald Trump rooting for Hunter Biden to be acquitted on charges of illegal gun possession, even after years of ranting that the “Biden crime family” belongs in jail? It would make a certain twisted sense: “See, the fix was in all along!” the former president could claim if Hunter is exonerated. “Just like my trial was rigged! Joe Biden has corrupted the judicial system!”

    Maybe the MAGA base would buy it. The facts, of course, make the argument ludicrous. There’s no evidence whatsoever that the president attempted to influence the Manhattan district attorney’s prosecution of Trump. Quite the opposite: Joe Biden’s Department of Justice declined to pursue charges related to the Stormy Daniels hush money allegations, while it has indicted New Jersey Democratic senator Robert Menendez (on bribery charges and other accusations) and Texas Democratic congressman Henry Cuellar (on charges of bribery, money laundering, and acting as a foreign agent), and just finished presenting its case against Biden’s younger son in a Wilmington, Delaware, courtroom. “The Merrick Garland Justice Department isn’t going after our enemies,” a top Democratic strategist says. “They go after the people who they think have broken the law.”

    Some prominent Democrats, including Maryland congressman Jamie Raskin, have been pointing out the hypocrisy of Republicans decrying the Trump prosecution as partisan while Hunter Biden stands trial. You will not, however, hear that point being made by the Biden campaign itself. The quickest way to shorten a conversation with someone in Bidenworld has always been to bring up Hunter’s troubles. He remains a sensitive subject, for both political and personal reasons. When I asked Ted Kaufman, Joe Biden’s longtime friend and his successor as a Delaware senator, about the complicated line between presidenting and parenting, the answer was quick and curt. “I’m not going to get into that,” Kauffman said. “Let me make something clear: He has demonstrated time and time and time again how much he cares for Hunter. He’s one of the most incredible fathers.”

    Joe Biden’s decency and empathy should indeed help his cause, particularly in contrast to Trump’s lack of both qualities. Yet voters, understandably, care most about what the White House can do for them. That’s why the economy, immigration, abortion, and democracy so often rank among the top priorities in the presidential campaign. So Biden’s team would be fine with Trump’s campaign burning up more time and energy on issues that motivate only MAGA. “How many people do you think are going to the ballot box and voting based on Hunter? Like, zero-point-zero,” a Biden insider says. “Voters vote on what’s better for them and their lives.”

    In the weeks since Trump’s conviction on 34 counts, another theory has been bandied about inside Bidenworld: In a race that will likely be decided by a sliver of votes in a handful of swing states, the more Trump and allies like Steve Bannon and Megyn Kelly fulminate about retribution—or about using the federal government to go after not just the Bidens but perhaps Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama—the more the American judicial system itself could become a contributing, indirect issue for voters who say they are still on the fence.

    Trump’s authoritarian rants, inflamed by his anger over his Manhattan conviction, can help the Biden campaign amplify two of its existing, important themes: that the Republican candidate cares only about himself, and that his reelection would return chaos to the most powerful office in government. The key in successfully selling that message, however, will be connecting Trump’s norm-destroying rage to his ability to damage everyday American life, in areas from reducing job growth and access to affordable health care to worsening climate change and the tax gap between the rich and everyone else. “Yes, I want Democrats to be talking about Trump’s conviction,” says Jim Messina, who managed Obama’s successful 2012 reelection run and is an outside adviser to Biden’s 2024 reelection bid. “I also think you can walk and chew gum at the same time. We’re still losing the economic argument. Hillary’s great failing in 2016 was not that she didn’t make Trump’s behavior clear—it was not making people understand why it hurts them economically. And we’ve just got to do that.”

    What a jury decides about Hunter Biden is unlikely to factor into that campaign equation. But Trump’s threat to aggressively weaponize the judicial system just might.

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    Chris Smith

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  • Alec Baldwin’s request to dismiss criminal charge in fatal ‘Rust’ shooting rejected by judge

    Alec Baldwin’s request to dismiss criminal charge in fatal ‘Rust’ shooting rejected by judge

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    A New Mexico judge has rejected a request by Alec Baldwin to dismiss the sole criminal charge against him in a fatal shooting on the set of “Rust,” keeping the case on track for a trial this summer.Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer on Friday upheld an indictment charging Baldwin with one count of involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in 2021. The judge rejected defense arguments that prosecutors flouted the rules of grand jury proceedings to divert attention away from exculpatory evidence and witnesses.Special prosecutors have denied the accusations and said Baldwin made “shameless” attempts to escape culpability, highlighting contradictions in his statements to law enforcement, to workplace safety regulators and in a televised interview.Friday’s decision removes one of the last hurdles for prosecutors to put Baldwin on trial in July.The indictment in January charged Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter in the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on Oct. 21, 2021, at a movie ranch on the outskirts of Santa Fe.Baldwin, a lead actor and co-producer on the Western, has pleaded not guilty to the charge, which carries a maximum sentence of 1.5 years in prison. His attorneys argued during the virtual hearing on Friday that the grand jury received a one-sided presentation in bad faith from prosecutors who steered jurors away from exculpatory evidence and witnesses.During rehearsal, Baldwin was pointing a gun at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins when the revolver went off, killing Hutchins and injuring Joel Souza, the director. Baldwin has maintained that he pulled back the gun’s hammer, but not the trigger.Baldwin’s motion to dismiss the indictment argued that the grand jury received inaccurate and limited testimony about the revolver and safety protocols on movie sets.Over more than two hours of arguments Friday, defense attorneys for Baldwin accused the special prosecutor of neglecting her responsibilities to ensure impartiality and access to the defense’s witnesses and evidence.“The fix was in,” said defense attorney Alex Spiro. “There were no (defense) witnesses there to testify. There was no evidence binder of the defense exhibits.”“They never intended for the grand jury to ask for witnesses,” he continued. “They never wanted the grand jury to ask for exhibits.”Special prosecutors say they followed grand jury protocols and accuse Baldwin of “shameless” attempts to escape culpability, highlighting contradictions in his statements to law enforcement, to workplace safety regulators and in a televised interview. A jury trial is scheduled for July.Lead prosecutor Kari Morrissey on Friday defended her oversight of the grand jury, noting that she read to jurors a court-approved letter outlining procedures for accessing exculpatory evidence and witnesses and physically pointed at the defense’s boxes of evidence.“The grand jury never asked to hear from witnesses. There is nothing I can do about that,” Morrissey said. “We followed all of the judge’s orders.”Defense attorneys also highlighted that jurors were interrupted when they raised questions about safety procedures on film sets. Baldwin’s attorneys said jurors were guided away from listening to testimony from a sheriff’s detective and instead toward an expert witness paid by the prosecution to discuss film set safety.Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer seized on that point in a series of questions for Morrissey, asking why the detective wasn’t allowed to answer. Morrissey said the detective was well acquainted with the wrong ways to handle gun safety on a movie set from investigating the “Rust” set, but not well versed on proper industry protocols.“I did not prevent the grand jury from getting answers,” Morrissey said. “I made sure the grand jury got the answers to their questions from the witness with the most experience.”Baldwin did not appear at the hearing. Prosecutors have turned their full attention to Baldwin after a judge in April sentenced movie weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed to the maximum of 1.5 years at a state penitentiary on an involuntary manslaughter conviction for Hutchins’ death.Prosecutors last year dismissed an earlier involuntary manslaughter charge against Baldwin after being told the gun he was holding might have been modified before the shooting and malfunctioned. A new analysis of the gun last year enabled prosecutors to reboot the case.The indictment against Baldwin offers two possible standards for prosecutors to pursue. One would be based on the negligent use of a firearm. An alternative is to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Baldwin caused Hutchins’ death without “due caution” or “circumspection,” also defined as “an act committed with total disregard or indifference for the safety of others.”Defense attorneys also say prosecutors steered the grand jury away from testimony by witnesses including the film’s director, as well as assistant director and safety coordinator Dave Halls and props master Sarah Zachry. Halls last year pleaded no contest to negligent handling of a firearm and completed a sentence of six months of unsupervised probation.The two-week trial of Gutierrez-Reed gave attorneys for Baldwin and the public an unusual window into how the actor’s own trial could unfold.Baldwin figured prominently in testimony and closing arguments that highlighted his authority as a co-producer and the lead actor on “Rust.” Both the prosecution and defense in Gutierrez-Reed’s trial dissected video footage of Baldwin before the fatal shooting for clues about breakdowns in firearms safety.Prosecutors said Gutierrez-Reed unwittingly brought live ammunition onto the set of “Rust,” where it was expressly prohibited and failed to follow basic gun safety protocols.Gutierrez-Reed is appealing the conviction, decided by a jury in March, to a higher court but hasn’t yet filed detailed arguments. At sentencing, Gutierrez-Reed told the judge she tried to do her best on the set despite not having “proper time, resources and staffing.”After the shooting in New Mexico, the filming of “Rust” resumed in Montana, under an agreement with Hutchins’ husband, Matthew Hutchins, which made him an executive producer. Matthew Hutchins and the Hutchins’ son settled a wrongful death lawsuit in civil court under undisclosed terms.Defense attorneys said Baldwin was offered a deal last year to plead to a “minor offense” before a grand jury was convened, but the offer was “inexplicably retracted” before the deadline to respond.The Associated Press contributed to this report.

    SANTA FE, N.M. —

    A New Mexico judge has rejected a request by Alec Baldwin to dismiss the sole criminal charge against him in a fatal shooting on the set of “Rust,” keeping the case on track for a trial this summer.

    Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer on Friday upheld an indictment charging Baldwin with one count of involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in 2021. The judge rejected defense arguments that prosecutors flouted the rules of grand jury proceedings to divert attention away from exculpatory evidence and witnesses.

    Special prosecutors have denied the accusations and said Baldwin made “shameless” attempts to escape culpability, highlighting contradictions in his statements to law enforcement, to workplace safety regulators and in a televised interview.

    Friday’s decision removes one of the last hurdles for prosecutors to put Baldwin on trial in July.

    The indictment in January charged Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter in the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on Oct. 21, 2021, at a movie ranch on the outskirts of Santa Fe.

    Baldwin, a lead actor and co-producer on the Western, has pleaded not guilty to the charge, which carries a maximum sentence of 1.5 years in prison. His attorneys argued during the virtual hearing on Friday that the grand jury received a one-sided presentation in bad faith from prosecutors who steered jurors away from exculpatory evidence and witnesses.

    During rehearsal, Baldwin was pointing a gun at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins when the revolver went off, killing Hutchins and injuring Joel Souza, the director. Baldwin has maintained that he pulled back the gun’s hammer, but not the trigger.

    Baldwin’s motion to dismiss the indictment argued that the grand jury received inaccurate and limited testimony about the revolver and safety protocols on movie sets.

    Over more than two hours of arguments Friday, defense attorneys for Baldwin accused the special prosecutor of neglecting her responsibilities to ensure impartiality and access to the defense’s witnesses and evidence.

    “The fix was in,” said defense attorney Alex Spiro. “There were no (defense) witnesses there to testify. There was no evidence binder of the defense exhibits.”

    “They never intended for the grand jury to ask for witnesses,” he continued. “They never wanted the grand jury to ask for exhibits.”

    Special prosecutors say they followed grand jury protocols and accuse Baldwin of “shameless” attempts to escape culpability, highlighting contradictions in his statements to law enforcement, to workplace safety regulators and in a televised interview. A jury trial is scheduled for July.

    Lead prosecutor Kari Morrissey on Friday defended her oversight of the grand jury, noting that she read to jurors a court-approved letter outlining procedures for accessing exculpatory evidence and witnesses and physically pointed at the defense’s boxes of evidence.

    “The grand jury never asked to hear from witnesses. There is nothing I can do about that,” Morrissey said. “We followed all of the judge’s orders.”

    Defense attorneys also highlighted that jurors were interrupted when they raised questions about safety procedures on film sets. Baldwin’s attorneys said jurors were guided away from listening to testimony from a sheriff’s detective and instead toward an expert witness paid by the prosecution to discuss film set safety.

    Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer seized on that point in a series of questions for Morrissey, asking why the detective wasn’t allowed to answer. Morrissey said the detective was well acquainted with the wrong ways to handle gun safety on a movie set from investigating the “Rust” set, but not well versed on proper industry protocols.

    “I did not prevent the grand jury from getting answers,” Morrissey said. “I made sure the grand jury got the answers to their questions from the witness with the most experience.”

    Baldwin did not appear at the hearing. Prosecutors have turned their full attention to Baldwin after a judge in April sentenced movie weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed to the maximum of 1.5 years at a state penitentiary on an involuntary manslaughter conviction for Hutchins’ death.

    Prosecutors last year dismissed an earlier involuntary manslaughter charge against Baldwin after being told the gun he was holding might have been modified before the shooting and malfunctioned. A new analysis of the gun last year enabled prosecutors to reboot the case.

    The indictment against Baldwin offers two possible standards for prosecutors to pursue. One would be based on the negligent use of a firearm. An alternative is to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Baldwin caused Hutchins’ death without “due caution” or “circumspection,” also defined as “an act committed with total disregard or indifference for the safety of others.”

    Defense attorneys also say prosecutors steered the grand jury away from testimony by witnesses including the film’s director, as well as assistant director and safety coordinator Dave Halls and props master Sarah Zachry. Halls last year pleaded no contest to negligent handling of a firearm and completed a sentence of six months of unsupervised probation.

    The two-week trial of Gutierrez-Reed gave attorneys for Baldwin and the public an unusual window into how the actor’s own trial could unfold.

    Baldwin figured prominently in testimony and closing arguments that highlighted his authority as a co-producer and the lead actor on “Rust.” Both the prosecution and defense in Gutierrez-Reed’s trial dissected video footage of Baldwin before the fatal shooting for clues about breakdowns in firearms safety.

    Prosecutors said Gutierrez-Reed unwittingly brought live ammunition onto the set of “Rust,” where it was expressly prohibited and failed to follow basic gun safety protocols.

    Gutierrez-Reed is appealing the conviction, decided by a jury in March, to a higher court but hasn’t yet filed detailed arguments. At sentencing, Gutierrez-Reed told the judge she tried to do her best on the set despite not having “proper time, resources and staffing.”

    After the shooting in New Mexico, the filming of “Rust” resumed in Montana, under an agreement with Hutchins’ husband, Matthew Hutchins, which made him an executive producer. Matthew Hutchins and the Hutchins’ son settled a wrongful death lawsuit in civil court under undisclosed terms.

    Defense attorneys said Baldwin was offered a deal last year to plead to a “minor offense” before a grand jury was convened, but the offer was “inexplicably retracted” before the deadline to respond.

    The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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  • Orange County man charged with kidnapping, assault

    Orange County man charged with kidnapping, assault

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    ULSTER COUNTY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — The Ulster County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a New Windsor man in connection to a domestic violence investigation. Stephen Thompson, 34, is facing numerous charges.

    In March of 2023, police received a report of a previously occurring domestic abuse incident in Ulster County. According to the UCSO, Thompson allegedly physically abused a woman he was in a relationship with, destroyed her property, and held her against her will for an extended period of time.

    Thompson was indicted by an Ulster County Grand Jury in November of 2023. Following his indictment, the UCSO learned that Thompson had reportedly fled New York.

    During the ensuing investigation, officers discovered that Thompson returned to the state on April 25. He was taken into custody in Newburgh and now faces the following charges:

    Charges

    • Second-degree kidnapping
    • Second-degree robbery
    • Two counts of second-degree strangulation
    • Second-degree assault
    • Second-degree criminal contempt
    • Third-degree stalking
    • Five counts of third-degree assault
    • Two counts of second-degree unlawful imprisonment
    • Two counts of fourth-degree criminal mischief
    • Second-degree aggravated harassment

    The UCSO was assisted with the investigation by the United States Marshals Service NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force, the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office and the Ulster County Family Crimes and Advocacy Center.

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    Jackson Tollerton

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  • Chicago Appeals Court Rejects R. Kelly’s Challenge Of 20-Year Sentence – KXL

    Chicago Appeals Court Rejects R. Kelly’s Challenge Of 20-Year Sentence – KXL

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    CHICAGO (AP) — The singer R. Kelly was correctly sentenced to 20 years in prison on child sex convictions in Chicago, a federal appeals court ruled Friday.

    Jurors in 2022 convicted the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer, born Robert Sylvester Kelly, on three charges of producing child porn and three charges of enticement of minors for sex.

    In his appeal, Kelly argued that Illinois’ former and shorter statute of limitations on child sex prosecutions should have applied to his Chicago case rather than current law permitting charges while an accuser is still alive.

    He also argued that charges involving one accuser should have been tried separately from the charges tied to three other accusers due to video evidence that became a focal point of the Chicago trial.

    State prosecutors have said the video showed Kelly abusing a girl. The accuser identified only as Jane testified for the first time that she was 14 when the video was taken.

    The three-judge panel from the Chicago-based 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Friday’s ruling noted that jurors acquitted Kelly on 7 of the 13 counts against him “even after viewing those abhorrent tapes.”

    The appeals court also rejected Kelly’s argument that he should not have been prosecuted since the allegations occurred while Illinois law required prosecution of child sex crime charges within ten years. The panel labeled it an attempt by Kelly to elude the charges entirely after “employing a complex scheme to keep victims quiet.”

    Kelly’s attorney Jennifer Bonjean did not immediately respond to a message left with her office seeking comment on Kelly’s behalf.

    Prosecutors in Kelly’s hometown of Chicago had sought an even tougher sentence, asking for 25 years. They also wanted a judge to not let that time begin until after Kelly completed a 30-year sentence imposed in 2022 in New York for federal racketeering and sex trafficking convictions.

    Judge Harry Leinenweber rejected that ask, ordering that Kelly serve the 20 years from the Chicago case simultaneously with the New York sentence.

    Kelly has separately appealed the New York sentence.

    In arguments last month before the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, attorney Jennifer Bonjean asked the panel to find that prosecutors improperly used a racketeering statute written to shut down organized crime to go after the singer.

     

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    Grant McHill

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  • Teenager charged for January SEPTA shooting released amid video evidence

    Teenager charged for January SEPTA shooting released amid video evidence

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    A 16-year-old has been cleared of all charges related to a fatal shooting at 15th Street Station after an investigation showed that he was not involved.

    The shooting took place on Jan. 11 on the station’s Market-Frankford Line westbound platform. Tyshaun Welles, 16, was struck in the head by a stray bullet after a shooter opened fire at a crowd. Welles died of his injuries on Jan. 16. 

    Zaire Wilson, 16, and Quadir Humphrey, 18, were arrested separately at the scene for the shooting. Police at the time said that Wilson had pulled out a gun before Humphrey began firing.

    Wilson, however, maintained his innocence. Surveillance footage showed that Wilson was “clearly not involved” in the shooting and that Humphrey had acted alone, said Jane Roh from the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office in an email.

    According to Roh, the footage was not immediately available to the district attorney’s office after Wilson’s arrest.

    As a result, the office requested a hearing on the matter. On Feb. 29, the district attorney’s office dropped all charges against Wilson and Judge Joffie Pittman ordered his release. Wilson was reunited with his family soon after.

    “When presented with evolving or new information, the criminal legal system should move as quickly in the interest of justice,” said District Attorney Larry Krasner in the email. “…whether that means being prepared to meet the Commonwealth’s burden at trial or releasing from detention people who did not actually participate in a crime.”

    Meanwhile, the district attorney’s office is still prosecuting Humphrey for murder and other related charges. 

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    Chris Compendio

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  • Texas AG Ken Paxton reaches deal to end securities fraud charges after 9 years

    Texas AG Ken Paxton reaches deal to end securities fraud charges after 9 years

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    Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Tuesday agreed to pay nearly $300,000 in restitution under a deal to end criminal securities fraud charges that have shadowed the Republican for nearly a decade.Video above: Paxton’s attorney and prosecutor react to deal to dismiss chargesThe announcement by special prosecutors in a Houston courtroom came less than three weeks before Paxton was set to stand trial on felony charges that could have led to a prison sentence. It was the closest Paxton — who was indicted in 2015 — has ever come to trial over accusations that he duped investors in a tech startup near Dallas.Under the 18-month agreement, the special prosecutors would drop three felony counts against Paxton as long as he pays full restitution to his victims, and completes 100 hours of community service and 15 hours of legal ethics education. A former special prosecutor said the chance of a conviction was going to be “50-50.”Paxton said little during the hearing, and he avoided reporters by leaving the court through a back door.But in a statement released later Tuesday, Paxton — one of the nation’s most prominent state attorney generals, who just six months earlier was acquitted of corruption charges in an impeachment trial in the Texas Senate — remained defiant.“There will never be a conviction in this case nor am I guilty,” said Paxton, while thanking his family and supporters “for sticking by my side.” The agreement lets Paxton remain in his elected position and doesn’t affect his law license.Dan Cogdell, a Paxton’s attorney, said prosecutors would never have been able to prove their case at trial, but he conceded that it was cheaper for Paxton to accept the agreement.“Number one, the economics are actually in his favor for not going to trial. And number two, it’s a guaranteed dismissal at the end of the day,” Cogdell told reporters.Houston attorney Brian Wice, who was one of the special prosecutors, described the deal as a victory that requires Paxton to repay investors, including Byron Cook, a former GOP lawmaker who served with Paxton in the Texas Legislature, and the estate of Joel Hochberg, a South Florida businessman who died last year.Wice, who previously indicated that he would consider a pre-trial deal a “slap on the wrist,” said he and fellow prosecutor Jed Silverman reevaluated their chance of success based on evidence and witnesses.“Our primary duty is to do justice, not to convict. So, the question isn’t whether or not who won, but was justice served? And I think the answer to that is unmistakably yes,” Wice said.Kent Schaffer, who worked as a special prosecutor on the case until February and had tried to broker a similar settlement, said insufficient resources and antagonistic witnesses could have hindered the prosecutors’ case.”I didn’t think we had a bad case, but it’s 50-50. It could go either way,” said Schaffer, a Houston-based criminal defense attorney.The Cook and Hochberg families said in a statement they are “grateful that they will receive restitution in full.”Wice acknowledged the long arc of the case that shuffled between four different judges over the years, ping-ponged between courtrooms in Dallas and Houston, and was slowed by the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in 2017.The resolution of the securities fraud case furthers a dramatic reversal of political fortune for Paxton, who just a year ago appeared imperiled by the criminal case and the threat of being removed from office after his top aides reported him to the FBI.But Paxton has emerged emboldened. He waged war against dozens of GOP lawmakers who were part of the 2023 effort to impeach him, with his biggest target being state House Speaker Dade Phelan, who was forced into a May 28 runoff. He has also not ruled out a primary challenge to Republican Sen. John Cornyn in 2026.Paxton still faces legal troubles, however. A federal investigation has been probing some of the same charges presented in his impeachment and former aides who reported Paxton to the FBI are trying to make him testify in a whistleblower civil lawsuit.The securities fraud case has hung over Paxton nearly his entire time in statewide office. Yet the 61-year-old has shown political resilience time and again, winning over conservative activists, and importantly within the GOP, former President Donald Trump.Paxton had been accused of defrauding investors in a Dallas-area tech company called Servergy by not disclosing that he was being paid by the company to recruit them. He was charged with two counts of securities fraud and one count of not being registered as an investment adviser.James Spindler, a professor of business and law at the University of Texas at Austin, said it was surprising that Paxton even faced a felony prosecution. He described one of the charges — failing to register as an investment adviser — as a technical violation and said most similar cases are settled as civil lawsuits.Legal experts have said over the years that the longer the case drags on, the harder it would be for both sides.Paxton was also charged in a federal civil complaint filed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission over his work with Servergy. But a federal judge in March 2017 dismissed the complaint against Paxton. The person who recruited Paxton to work with Servergy, ex-company CEO William Mapp, was found liable by a jury for misleading investors and ordered to pay a civil penalty of $22,500. Mapp lost his job with Servergy and later had to work as an Uber driver to make ends meet, according to court documents.The fraud allegations were among the original 20 articles of impeachment but were set aside during the impeachment trial in the Texas Senate last year.Paxton’s political opponents, most notably Republicans, had used the fraud charges against him in elections. But Paxton has twice been reelected as attorney general since his indictment, most recently in 2022.

    HOUSTON —

    Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Tuesday agreed to pay nearly $300,000 in restitution under a deal to end criminal securities fraud charges that have shadowed the Republican for nearly a decade.

    Video above: Paxton’s attorney and prosecutor react to deal to dismiss charges

    The announcement by special prosecutors in a Houston courtroom came less than three weeks before Paxton was set to stand trial on felony charges that could have led to a prison sentence. It was the closest Paxton — who was indicted in 2015 — has ever come to trial over accusations that he duped investors in a tech startup near Dallas.

    Under the 18-month agreement, the special prosecutors would drop three felony counts against Paxton as long as he pays full restitution to his victims, and completes 100 hours of community service and 15 hours of legal ethics education. A former special prosecutor said the chance of a conviction was going to be “50-50.”

    Paxton said little during the hearing, and he avoided reporters by leaving the court through a back door.

    But in a statement released later Tuesday, Paxton — one of the nation’s most prominent state attorney generals, who just six months earlier was acquitted of corruption charges in an impeachment trial in the Texas Senate — remained defiant.

    “There will never be a conviction in this case nor am I guilty,” said Paxton, while thanking his family and supporters “for sticking by my side.” The agreement lets Paxton remain in his elected position and doesn’t affect his law license.

    Dan Cogdell, a Paxton’s attorney, said prosecutors would never have been able to prove their case at trial, but he conceded that it was cheaper for Paxton to accept the agreement.

    “Number one, the economics are actually in his favor for not going to trial. And number two, it’s a guaranteed dismissal at the end of the day,” Cogdell told reporters.

    Houston attorney Brian Wice, who was one of the special prosecutors, described the deal as a victory that requires Paxton to repay investors, including Byron Cook, a former GOP lawmaker who served with Paxton in the Texas Legislature, and the estate of Joel Hochberg, a South Florida businessman who died last year.

    Wice, who previously indicated that he would consider a pre-trial deal a “slap on the wrist,” said he and fellow prosecutor Jed Silverman reevaluated their chance of success based on evidence and witnesses.

    “Our primary duty is to do justice, not to convict. So, the question isn’t whether or not who won, but was justice served? And I think the answer to that is unmistakably yes,” Wice said.

    Kent Schaffer, who worked as a special prosecutor on the case until February and had tried to broker a similar settlement, said insufficient resources and antagonistic witnesses could have hindered the prosecutors’ case.

    “I didn’t think we had a bad case, but it’s 50-50. It could go either way,” said Schaffer, a Houston-based criminal defense attorney.

    The Cook and Hochberg families said in a statement they are “grateful that they will receive restitution in full.”

    Wice acknowledged the long arc of the case that shuffled between four different judges over the years, ping-ponged between courtrooms in Dallas and Houston, and was slowed by the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

    The resolution of the securities fraud case furthers a dramatic reversal of political fortune for Paxton, who just a year ago appeared imperiled by the criminal case and the threat of being removed from office after his top aides reported him to the FBI.

    But Paxton has emerged emboldened. He waged war against dozens of GOP lawmakers who were part of the 2023 effort to impeach him, with his biggest target being state House Speaker Dade Phelan, who was forced into a May 28 runoff. He has also not ruled out a primary challenge to Republican Sen. John Cornyn in 2026.

    Paxton still faces legal troubles, however. A federal investigation has been probing some of the same charges presented in his impeachment and former aides who reported Paxton to the FBI are trying to make him testify in a whistleblower civil lawsuit.

    The securities fraud case has hung over Paxton nearly his entire time in statewide office. Yet the 61-year-old has shown political resilience time and again, winning over conservative activists, and importantly within the GOP, former President Donald Trump.

    Paxton had been accused of defrauding investors in a Dallas-area tech company called Servergy by not disclosing that he was being paid by the company to recruit them. He was charged with two counts of securities fraud and one count of not being registered as an investment adviser.

    James Spindler, a professor of business and law at the University of Texas at Austin, said it was surprising that Paxton even faced a felony prosecution. He described one of the charges — failing to register as an investment adviser — as a technical violation and said most similar cases are settled as civil lawsuits.

    Legal experts have said over the years that the longer the case drags on, the harder it would be for both sides.

    Paxton was also charged in a federal civil complaint filed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission over his work with Servergy. But a federal judge in March 2017 dismissed the complaint against Paxton. The person who recruited Paxton to work with Servergy, ex-company CEO William Mapp, was found liable by a jury for misleading investors and ordered to pay a civil penalty of $22,500. Mapp lost his job with Servergy and later had to work as an Uber driver to make ends meet, according to court documents.

    The fraud allegations were among the original 20 articles of impeachment but were set aside during the impeachment trial in the Texas Senate last year.

    Paxton’s political opponents, most notably Republicans, had used the fraud charges against him in elections. But Paxton has twice been reelected as attorney general since his indictment, most recently in 2022.

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  • Driver Pleads Guilty to Reduced Charge in Crash That Killed Treat Williams

    Driver Pleads Guilty to Reduced Charge in Crash That Killed Treat Williams

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    Photo: John Paul Filo/CBS via Getty Images

    The driver in the Vermont crash that killed Treat Williams accepted a plea deal that will allow him to avoid prison time, WTEN reports. On Friday, 35-year-old Ryan Koss pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of negligent driving with death resulting. According to CNN, a judge ruled that Koss’s sentencing will be deferred for one year. During this probation period, Koss will have his license revoked and be required to go through mental health counseling and a restorative justice program. He previously pleaded not guilty to the original felony charge of gross negligent operation with death resulting, which could have meant up to 15 years in prison. (With the lesser charge, he will only face up to two years in prison if he breaks probation.)

    Koss collided with Williams’s motorcycle in Dorset, Vermont in June. Williams was airlifted to a hospital in New York, and ultimately died at 71. Per AP News, Koss had known Williams for years through Vermont’s theater community, and considered him to be a friend. Koss expressed his “sincerest apologies and condolences” to the actor’s family during the Friday hearing. “I’m here to acknowledge that this accident occurred because I made a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle that collided with my car,” Koss told the court, “and it was my responsibility to avoid that from happening, and for that I am truly sorry.”

    Williams’s son, Gil, attended the hearing and addressed Koss directly. “I do forgive you, and I hope that you forgive yourself, and I don’t want you to go to prison,” Gil said, noting that his family hadn’t pressed charges. Still, he added, “I really wish you hadn’t killed my father. I really had to say that.” Williams’s wife, Pam, was not present. According to Bennington County State’s Attorney Erica Marthage, Koss called Pam after the crash to tell her what happened. In a statement that was read aloud in court, she said she hopes Koss can forgive himself for what she described as a tragic accident.

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    Jennifer Zhan

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  • Family friend of Texas girl Audrii Cunningham facing charges in 11-year-old’s death, prosecutor says

    Family friend of Texas girl Audrii Cunningham facing charges in 11-year-old’s death, prosecutor says

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    A family friend of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham was in jail Wednesday as prosecutors say they plan to charge him in the girl’s death after her body was found in a river near her rural Texas home. Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said the body of the young girl — who went missing last week — was found Tuesday during a search in the Trinity River in a rural area north of Houston. Lyons said cell phone data was used to help identify places to look and that the local river authority slowed down the outflow of a reservoir to help search teams that were in the water. Cunninham’s body was found about 10 miles from her home near Lake Livingston.”My heart aches with this news,” Lyons said.Audrii’s family had reported her missing on Thursday after she failed to return after school to her home in Livingston. After she was reported missing, investigators discovered that she never got on the bus to go to school that morning.Polk County District Attorney Shelly Sitton said officials were preparing an arrest warrant for Don Steven McDougal, 42, on a recommended charge of capital murder. She said they do not yet know if they would seek the death penalty in the case.Lyons said there is “substantial evidence” in the case, and that cell phone data and videos helped identify places to search. He added that the Trinity River Authority lowered water levels on the river, which led to the discovery of her body.Authorities have said McDougal is a friend of the girl’s father and lived in a camper on the family’s property. Audrii lived with her father, grandparents and other family members, authorities said.Lyons has said that in the past, McDougal had taken Audrii to the bus stop or would take her to school if she missed the bus.A backpack that authorities believe belonged to the child was found Friday near the dam on Lake Livingston, one of the state’s largest lakes.As authorities investigated Audrii’s disappearance last week, they had named McDougal as a person of interest and he was arrested Friday on an unrelated assault charge. He remains in jail on that charge. Jail records did not list an attorney for him.Court records from Brazoria County, south of Houston, show McDougal pleaded no contest to two felony counts of enticing a child stemming from a 2007 incident and was sentenced to two years in prison.The sheriff said that the girl’s body has been taken to the Harris County medical examiner’s office in Houston to determine the cause of death.___Associated Press writer Sean Murphy contributed to this report from Oklahoma City.

    POLK COUNTY, Texas —

    A family friend of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham was in jail Wednesday as prosecutors say they plan to charge him in the girl’s death after her body was found in a river near her rural Texas home.

    Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said the body of the young girl — who went missing last week — was found Tuesday during a search in the Trinity River in a rural area north of Houston. Lyons said cell phone data was used to help identify places to look and that the local river authority slowed down the outflow of a reservoir to help search teams that were in the water.

    Cunninham’s body was found about 10 miles from her home near Lake Livingston.

    “My heart aches with this news,” Lyons said.

    Audrii’s family had reported her missing on Thursday after she failed to return after school to her home in Livingston. After she was reported missing, investigators discovered that she never got on the bus to go to school that morning.

    Polk County District Attorney Shelly Sitton said officials were preparing an arrest warrant for Don Steven McDougal, 42, on a recommended charge of capital murder. She said they do not yet know if they would seek the death penalty in the case.

    Lyons said there is “substantial evidence” in the case, and that cell phone data and videos helped identify places to search. He added that the Trinity River Authority lowered water levels on the river, which led to the discovery of her body.

    Authorities have said McDougal is a friend of the girl’s father and lived in a camper on the family’s property. Audrii lived with her father, grandparents and other family members, authorities said.

    Lyons has said that in the past, McDougal had taken Audrii to the bus stop or would take her to school if she missed the bus.

    A backpack that authorities believe belonged to the child was found Friday near the dam on Lake Livingston, one of the state’s largest lakes.

    As authorities investigated Audrii’s disappearance last week, they had named McDougal as a person of interest and he was arrested Friday on an unrelated assault charge. He remains in jail on that charge. Jail records did not list an attorney for him.

    Court records from Brazoria County, south of Houston, show McDougal pleaded no contest to two felony counts of enticing a child stemming from a 2007 incident and was sentenced to two years in prison.

    The sheriff said that the girl’s body has been taken to the Harris County medical examiner’s office in Houston to determine the cause of death.

    ___

    Associated Press writer Sean Murphy contributed to this report from Oklahoma City.

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  • Greenfield contractor charged with grand larceny

    Greenfield contractor charged with grand larceny

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    BALLSTON, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A Greenfield man was arrested following a scam investigation, according to state police. Michael Marlett, 21, has been charged with third-degree grand larceny.

    On January 25 at 6:30 p.m., police received a complaint from a Saratoga County resident regarding a contracting dispute. The investigation determined that in December of 2023, the victim had agreed to hire the owner and operator of ATQ Contracting LLC, identified as Marlett, to complete a remodeling project at a home in Ballston.

    Police say the victim gave Marlett a deposit of $10,000 ahead of the work. Marlett allegedly failed to start the project by an agreed upon date and did not return the deposit, resulting in the theft of the money.

    Marlett was taken into custody in Clifton Park and transported to SP Saratoga for processing. He was arraigned at the Malta Town Court before being released on his own recognizance.

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    Jackson Tollerton

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