2 days ago
Aug 11 (Reuters) - The Trump administration on Tuesday finalized a rule exempting U.S. companies and individuals from reporting beneficial ownership information to the Treasury Department's financial crimes unit, rolling back reporting requirements established under a 2021 law aimed at combating illicit finance.
The Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, or FinCEN, will still require foreign reporting companies to disclose beneficial ownership information for foreign individuals, the department said in a statement.
"Treasury is eliminating a burdensome reporting requirement for millions of law-abiding business owners without compromising our national security," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in the statement.
Beneficial owners are defined as anyone who has an ownership interest of at least 25% in a business or someone who exerts "substantial control" over the entity.
FinCEN had previously implemented rules requiring certain companies to report beneficial ownership data as part of anti-corruption and anti-money laundering efforts backed by lawmakers and the Treasury Department under former President Joe Biden.
#reporting #crimes #department #individuals
The Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, or FinCEN, will still require foreign reporting companies to disclose beneficial ownership information for foreign individuals, the department said in a statement.
"Treasury is eliminating a burdensome reporting requirement for millions of law-abiding business owners without compromising our national security," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in the statement.
Beneficial owners are defined as anyone who has an ownership interest of at least 25% in a business or someone who exerts "substantial control" over the entity.
FinCEN had previously implemented rules requiring certain companies to report beneficial ownership data as part of anti-corruption and anti-money laundering efforts backed by lawmakers and the Treasury Department under former President Joe Biden.
#reporting #crimes #department #individuals
3 days ago
A Syrian court has sentenced ousted dictator Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia, after convicting him of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during the country's civil war.
It is the first conviction against ***** ad, who fled from Damascus to Moscow with his family after his regime was overthrown in December 2024, ending his family's five-decade grip on power.
Assad's cousin and the former head of political security in southern Syria's Deraa province, Atef Najib, was also sentenced to death. He had been put on trial and appeared wearing a striped prison uniform inside a cage in the courtroom as the judge read out his sentence.
Deraa is widely seen as the birthplace of the uprising against ***** ad's rule.
In March 2011, the detention and alleged torture of a group of teenagers accused of writing anti-government graffiti sparked protests in the city, which were met with a violent crackdown by security forces.
#assad #security #damascus
It is the first conviction against ***** ad, who fled from Damascus to Moscow with his family after his regime was overthrown in December 2024, ending his family's five-decade grip on power.
Assad's cousin and the former head of political security in southern Syria's Deraa province, Atef Najib, was also sentenced to death. He had been put on trial and appeared wearing a striped prison uniform inside a cage in the courtroom as the judge read out his sentence.
Deraa is widely seen as the birthplace of the uprising against ***** ad's rule.
In March 2011, the detention and alleged torture of a group of teenagers accused of writing anti-government graffiti sparked protests in the city, which were met with a violent crackdown by security forces.
#assad #security #damascus
7 days ago
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When you move into your first college dorm or apartment, you may bring along a laptop, bike, phone, clothes, textbooks, and maybe even furniture with you. But whether you need renters insurance for college depends on where you live, whether you're already covered under a parent's policy, and how much it would cost to replace your stuff.
If you're living in an on-campus dorm or fraternity or sorority house, you may already have some coverage under a parent's homeowners or renters insurance policy.
If you're renting an apartment or house off campus, you're more likely to need your own renters insurance policy. In fact, some landlords require it before you can move in.
Even when it's optional, renters insurance can be worth it. Burglaries account for about 28% of reported on-campus crimes, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. If your laptop, phone, bike, clothes, and textbooks get stolen or damaged, replacing everything out of pocket would be pricey.
#you 're #move #dorm
When you move into your first college dorm or apartment, you may bring along a laptop, bike, phone, clothes, textbooks, and maybe even furniture with you. But whether you need renters insurance for college depends on where you live, whether you're already covered under a parent's policy, and how much it would cost to replace your stuff.
If you're living in an on-campus dorm or fraternity or sorority house, you may already have some coverage under a parent's homeowners or renters insurance policy.
If you're renting an apartment or house off campus, you're more likely to need your own renters insurance policy. In fact, some landlords require it before you can move in.
Even when it's optional, renters insurance can be worth it. Burglaries account for about 28% of reported on-campus crimes, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. If your laptop, phone, bike, clothes, and textbooks get stolen or damaged, replacing everything out of pocket would be pricey.
#you 're #move #dorm
8 days ago
Jana Monroe was the first woman to join the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit.
She spent years profiling serial killers and understanding their psychology.
She knew it was time to leave the BSU for more traditional ****** ignments after work followed her home.
The turning point for former FBI agent Jana Monroe came when her husband couldn't find a single kitchen knife in their home.
Monroe had spent years studying serial killers, violent crime scenes, and the psychology behind some of the country's most disturbing crimes. By then, she realized she had started bringing those cases home with her.
#monroe #spent #science
She spent years profiling serial killers and understanding their psychology.
She knew it was time to leave the BSU for more traditional ****** ignments after work followed her home.
The turning point for former FBI agent Jana Monroe came when her husband couldn't find a single kitchen knife in their home.
Monroe had spent years studying serial killers, violent crime scenes, and the psychology behind some of the country's most disturbing crimes. By then, she realized she had started bringing those cases home with her.
#monroe #spent #science
9 days ago
A woman who waged a "relentless" campaign of abuse against her girlfriend has been jailed.
Kathryn White, 41, physically and emotionally abused her 40-year-old victim for 11 months, after the pair started a relationship in 2021.
The victim reported White's crimes when she called 999 in July 2022, Cheshire Police said, but she died four days later.
White, of Mayfield Mews in Crewe, Cheshire, was previously found guilty of engaging in coercive and controlling behaviour and was jailed for three years and six months.
The trial at Liverpool Crown Court, which lasted 19 days, heard White began isolating the victim from her family and friends at the start of the relationship.
#victim #police
Kathryn White, 41, physically and emotionally abused her 40-year-old victim for 11 months, after the pair started a relationship in 2021.
The victim reported White's crimes when she called 999 in July 2022, Cheshire Police said, but she died four days later.
White, of Mayfield Mews in Crewe, Cheshire, was previously found guilty of engaging in coercive and controlling behaviour and was jailed for three years and six months.
The trial at Liverpool Crown Court, which lasted 19 days, heard White began isolating the victim from her family and friends at the start of the relationship.
#victim #police
11 days ago
June's NBA Finals should remind us of excellence, discipline and the way sports can lift the human spirit. Instead, Stephen Curry's partnership with apparel company Li-Ning points in the other direction. It binds one of America's most admired athletes to a Chinese company already under serious scrutiny for forced labor. **** ody can pretend the moral cost of doing business with Communist China is a mystery anymore.
What makes this so disappointing is that Curry is not simply a gifted player: He is a global figure whose public standing rests on more than championships. It rests on judgment, character and the sense that he takes serious things seriously. When a man like that signs a reported 10-year, $400 million deal with Li-Ning, he is not just changing brands. He is lending his good name to a company shadowed by one of the great human rights scandals of our time.
Sports at their best can do something rare. They can take fame, which is often fleeting and shallow, and turn it toward service. They can show that athletic greatness and moral witness do not have to live in separate worlds. That is why decisions like this matter. The larger the platform, the larger the responsibility.
Curry's decision is so troubling because it places the honor attached to athletic excellence beside a system of coercion. The U.S. Department of Labor states that since 2016 the Chinese Communist Party has subjected Uyghurs and other mostly Muslim minorities in Xinjiang "to genocide, state-imposed forced labor, and crimes against humanity." It describes labor transfers, surveillance, indoctrination and coercive factory work as part of a broad machinery of control.
These are not careless accusations. They are specific charges documented by the U.S. government and corroborated by international investigators.
#ning #communist #excellence #human
What makes this so disappointing is that Curry is not simply a gifted player: He is a global figure whose public standing rests on more than championships. It rests on judgment, character and the sense that he takes serious things seriously. When a man like that signs a reported 10-year, $400 million deal with Li-Ning, he is not just changing brands. He is lending his good name to a company shadowed by one of the great human rights scandals of our time.
Sports at their best can do something rare. They can take fame, which is often fleeting and shallow, and turn it toward service. They can show that athletic greatness and moral witness do not have to live in separate worlds. That is why decisions like this matter. The larger the platform, the larger the responsibility.
Curry's decision is so troubling because it places the honor attached to athletic excellence beside a system of coercion. The U.S. Department of Labor states that since 2016 the Chinese Communist Party has subjected Uyghurs and other mostly Muslim minorities in Xinjiang "to genocide, state-imposed forced labor, and crimes against humanity." It describes labor transfers, surveillance, indoctrination and coercive factory work as part of a broad machinery of control.
These are not careless accusations. They are specific charges documented by the U.S. government and corroborated by international investigators.
#ning #communist #excellence #human
12 days ago
In the age of online shopping, ghost-tapping and AI, consumers are more vulnerable to scams and fraud than ever.
A report by the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) found that Americans lost around $148 billion to online scams and crimes in 2025. This is up nearly 26% from 2024, landing at around $1,009 per household. The CFA also found that social media platforms, specifically Facebook and Instagram, are the platforms most commonly ***** ociated with online scams.
Jeff Bezos backs a platform that lets anyone invest in rental homes for as little as $100 — 6 ways to build wealth like a landlord without actually being one
Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake. Here's what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP
Millionaires under 43 hold only 25% of their wealth in stocks. Here's where their money is actually going
#americans
A report by the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) found that Americans lost around $148 billion to online scams and crimes in 2025. This is up nearly 26% from 2024, landing at around $1,009 per household. The CFA also found that social media platforms, specifically Facebook and Instagram, are the platforms most commonly ***** ociated with online scams.
Jeff Bezos backs a platform that lets anyone invest in rental homes for as little as $100 — 6 ways to build wealth like a landlord without actually being one
Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake. Here's what it is and 3 simple steps to fix it ASAP
Millionaires under 43 hold only 25% of their wealth in stocks. Here's where their money is actually going
#americans
17 days ago
(NewsNation) — A year after pleading guilty to the murders of four University of Idaho students, Bryan Kohberger is challenging his conviction.
According to a handwritten post-conviction petition, the criminology student claims he was "convinced to falsely confess" to the crimes. He claims he was swayed into the plea deal that landed him life in prison through "coercion, disinformation, false promises, and the withholding of exculpatory discovery."
While Kohberger claims he had ineffective counsel who "misrepresented" what life in prison would be like, NewsNation contributor Ashleigh Banfield told Hena Doba on Monday she believes Kohberger's just bored.
"Life in prison is really awful," she said. "And when you're his age, you're facing about 70 years of this last one year that he's had. He didn't like his last year. He's been in solitary. It's boring. He's tired of it."
Clue points to one sender of Nancy Guthrie notes, profiler says
#claims #prison #like
According to a handwritten post-conviction petition, the criminology student claims he was "convinced to falsely confess" to the crimes. He claims he was swayed into the plea deal that landed him life in prison through "coercion, disinformation, false promises, and the withholding of exculpatory discovery."
While Kohberger claims he had ineffective counsel who "misrepresented" what life in prison would be like, NewsNation contributor Ashleigh Banfield told Hena Doba on Monday she believes Kohberger's just bored.
"Life in prison is really awful," she said. "And when you're his age, you're facing about 70 years of this last one year that he's had. He didn't like his last year. He's been in solitary. It's boring. He's tired of it."
Clue points to one sender of Nancy Guthrie notes, profiler says
#claims #prison #like
23 days ago
A French professional model recruiter who for over a decade arranged for the late **** offender Jeffrey Epstein to meet multiple models, was found dead in his home near Paris on Monday.
Daniel Siad's body was found in his house in Colombes, a suburb of the French capital, Marie-Céline Lawrysz, deputy public prosecutor at the Nanterre Judicial Court, told CNN in a Wednesday statement.
An autopsy will be performed on the body to determine the cause of death.
CNN'S Katie Polglase recently interviewed Siad, who said he had no reason to believe two women he had recommended to Epstein – and who had told CNN that Epstein had abused them – had been harmed by him.
Even after Epstein's 2008 conviction on **** crimes, modeling-industry insiders like Siad continued seeking business ventures with him, invited him to fashion events, and allowed him to **** ociate with their companies.
#siad
Daniel Siad's body was found in his house in Colombes, a suburb of the French capital, Marie-Céline Lawrysz, deputy public prosecutor at the Nanterre Judicial Court, told CNN in a Wednesday statement.
An autopsy will be performed on the body to determine the cause of death.
CNN'S Katie Polglase recently interviewed Siad, who said he had no reason to believe two women he had recommended to Epstein – and who had told CNN that Epstein had abused them – had been harmed by him.
Even after Epstein's 2008 conviction on **** crimes, modeling-industry insiders like Siad continued seeking business ventures with him, invited him to fashion events, and allowed him to **** ociate with their companies.
#siad
24 days ago
Mason, 48, faces four counts of obtaining by false pretense and another count of pattern of criminal offense for crimes in more than one county, according to an affidavit filed by a detective in the Oklahoma City Police Financial Crime Unit. According to the affidavit, Mason was in contact with four separate victims and promised to deliver "art" that was never received.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: According to the affidavit, Mason was in contact with …
#mason #according #crime
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: According to the affidavit, Mason was in contact with …
#mason #according #crime
24 days ago
Desmond Tremaine Mason, the former basketball player who attended Oklahoma State University and once played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is facing new felony charges in Oklahoma over allegations that he failed to deliver items after being paid.
Mason, 48, faces four counts of obtaining by false pretense and another count of pattern of criminal offense for crimes in more than one county, according to an affidavit filed by a detective in the Oklahoma City Police Financial Crime Unit.
According to the affidavit, Mason was in contact with four separate victims and promised to deliver "art" that was never received. One of the victims is in Tulsa County, and another three are in Oklahoma County.
Each person paid varying amounts for the items, but all were above the $1,000 limit for triggering a felony charge. According to the affidavit, Mason stopped contact with the individuals between February and April this year.
One charge alleges Mason sold a Tulsa businessman $37,500 worth of paintings and jerseys but never delivered them. The charges were filed in Oklahoma County District Court on July 20.
#oklahoma #mason #tulsa #felony
Mason, 48, faces four counts of obtaining by false pretense and another count of pattern of criminal offense for crimes in more than one county, according to an affidavit filed by a detective in the Oklahoma City Police Financial Crime Unit.
According to the affidavit, Mason was in contact with four separate victims and promised to deliver "art" that was never received. One of the victims is in Tulsa County, and another three are in Oklahoma County.
Each person paid varying amounts for the items, but all were above the $1,000 limit for triggering a felony charge. According to the affidavit, Mason stopped contact with the individuals between February and April this year.
One charge alleges Mason sold a Tulsa businessman $37,500 worth of paintings and jerseys but never delivered them. The charges were filed in Oklahoma County District Court on July 20.
#oklahoma #mason #tulsa #felony
24 days ago
CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Lawyers for Pamela Smart, who is serving life in prison for orchestrating the murder of her husband by her teenage student in 1990, urged a New Hampshire judge Monday to allow her latest petition for a new trial to move forward.
Smart, 58, was a 22-year-old high school media coordinator when she began an affair with a 15-year-old boy who later fatally shot her husband, Gregory Smart, in Derry.
The shooter was freed in 2015 after serving a 25-year sentence. Though Smart denied knowledge of the plot, she was convicted of being an accomplice to first-degree murder and other crimes and was sentenced to life without parole after a trial that was one of the first in the nation to be broadcast live on television from start to finish.
Smart filed a petition for habeas corpus relief in January seeking to overturn her conviction over what her lawyers claim were several constitutional violations. The state responded with a motion to dismiss the petition, resulting in Monday's hearing, which Smart attended remotely from the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women in New York.
Merrimack County Superior Court Judge James Kennedy took the matter under advisement. He planned to rule in 30 to 60 days.
Smart, 58, was a 22-year-old high school media coordinator when she began an affair with a 15-year-old boy who later fatally shot her husband, Gregory Smart, in Derry.
The shooter was freed in 2015 after serving a 25-year sentence. Though Smart denied knowledge of the plot, she was convicted of being an accomplice to first-degree murder and other crimes and was sentenced to life without parole after a trial that was one of the first in the nation to be broadcast live on television from start to finish.
Smart filed a petition for habeas corpus relief in January seeking to overturn her conviction over what her lawyers claim were several constitutional violations. The state responded with a motion to dismiss the petition, resulting in Monday's hearing, which Smart attended remotely from the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women in New York.
Merrimack County Superior Court Judge James Kennedy took the matter under advisement. He planned to rule in 30 to 60 days.
25 days ago
Social media influencer with pages called "Celebrity Medical Esthetician" and "Trad Wife" becomes a hot topic after a video of her arrest for shoplifting at a Jersey Shore ShopRite is released.
Jeana M. DiCarlo, 35, of Middletown, was arrested after Middletown Police Officer James Courtney responded to the ShopRite located at 1500 Route 35 at 5:16 p.m. on Friday due to a report of a female stealing on the premises, according to the Middletown Police report and the body camera video released by Transparency Bodycam.
DiCarlo has more than 30,900 followers on her Instagram account jgloskincaree, where she describes herself as a "Celebrity Medical Esthetician," business owner, a "Mom of 5," and a "FireWife". Her posts contain information about her skincare routine, her five children (a baby boy that she claims to have conceived via in vitro fertilization after five girls), and her firefighter husband who works with the FDNY.
According to the criminal complaint, store employees said that DiCarlo tried to leave the store with stolen merchandise. The value of the items was estimated at $548.80. Based on evidence from store surveillance video and the store's decision to press charges against her, DiCarlo was arrested, handcuffed, and transported to Middletown Township Police headquarters. She was charged with third-degree shoplifting and released on her own recognizance until her court appearance.
During the investigation, it was found that DiCarlo had committed similar crimes on May 8, May 17, and May 31, with a total value of the items of $1,940.20. Thus, the total estimated value for all four incidents became $2,489.
Jeana M. DiCarlo, 35, of Middletown, was arrested after Middletown Police Officer James Courtney responded to the ShopRite located at 1500 Route 35 at 5:16 p.m. on Friday due to a report of a female stealing on the premises, according to the Middletown Police report and the body camera video released by Transparency Bodycam.
DiCarlo has more than 30,900 followers on her Instagram account jgloskincaree, where she describes herself as a "Celebrity Medical Esthetician," business owner, a "Mom of 5," and a "FireWife". Her posts contain information about her skincare routine, her five children (a baby boy that she claims to have conceived via in vitro fertilization after five girls), and her firefighter husband who works with the FDNY.
According to the criminal complaint, store employees said that DiCarlo tried to leave the store with stolen merchandise. The value of the items was estimated at $548.80. Based on evidence from store surveillance video and the store's decision to press charges against her, DiCarlo was arrested, handcuffed, and transported to Middletown Township Police headquarters. She was charged with third-degree shoplifting and released on her own recognizance until her court appearance.
During the investigation, it was found that DiCarlo had committed similar crimes on May 8, May 17, and May 31, with a total value of the items of $1,940.20. Thus, the total estimated value for all four incidents became $2,489.
26 days ago
The U.S. military hit bridges and energy sites in Iran in its latest round of strikes against the Middle Eastern country early Friday morning.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) responded with attacks on U.S. bases in the Gulf region, including in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan.
The IRGC also said it attacked a U.S. special operations command center at the al-Tanf garrison military base in Syria — an ***** ertion that U.S. Central Command disputed on Friday morning.
"CLAIM: Iranian forces claim they attacked al-Tanf Garrison in Syria and captured or killed American troops in the process. FALSE," the military command wrote on social media. "FACT: No U.S. troops in the region have recently been killed or captured."
In an interview earlier this week, President Trump telegraphed expanding the U.S. strikes to Iranian infrastructure, which critics have noted could constitute war crimes if the targets were not being used for military purposes.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) responded with attacks on U.S. bases in the Gulf region, including in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan.
The IRGC also said it attacked a U.S. special operations command center at the al-Tanf garrison military base in Syria — an ***** ertion that U.S. Central Command disputed on Friday morning.
"CLAIM: Iranian forces claim they attacked al-Tanf Garrison in Syria and captured or killed American troops in the process. FALSE," the military command wrote on social media. "FACT: No U.S. troops in the region have recently been killed or captured."
In an interview earlier this week, President Trump telegraphed expanding the U.S. strikes to Iranian infrastructure, which critics have noted could constitute war crimes if the targets were not being used for military purposes.
1 month ago
In a closely contested presidential election in Colombia, controversial far-right candidate Abelardo de la Espriella emerged victorious. After an official recount, his opponent, left-wing senator Ivan Cepeda, conceded defeat. This was a hard-fought campaign which split the community, sparking much controversy across Colombia. While debate rages over De la Espriella's policies and ascension to power, it is clear his presidency will be a godsend for Colombia's beaten-down, economically critical oil industry.
After the closest election in Colombia's modern history, president-elect De la Espriella emerged victorious after a recount with a narrow margin of less than one percent. Considerable controversy surrounds his victory despite left-wing contender Ivan Cepeda conceding defeat after the recount by Colombia's electoral authority, the National Electoral Council (CNE). There are fears that De la Espriella will clamp down on law and order in such a radical manner that it will lead to widespread human rights violations and crimes.
Central to the president-elect's platform is his plan to revive Colombia's fiscally strained economy and achieve annual gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 7%. To pursue that goal, he is supported by Vice President José Manuel Restrepo Abondano, who served as Colombia's Minister of Finance and Public Credit from May 2021 to August 2022 under President Iván Duque. Alongside fiscal austerity aimed at bringing Colombia's ballooning fiscal deficit, expected to reach 7 to 8% of GDP, under control, De la Espriella plans to revive the economically vital oil industry.
A key factor behind Colombia's recent economic malaise is the collapse of the once-dominant hydrocarbon sector. Indeed, over the last decade, oil and natural gas production has declined sharply, sparking fears of an energy crisis, especially with costly liquified natural gas (LNG) imports spiraling ever higher. By April 2026, oil output of 724,910 barrels per day is well below the 915,087 barrels per day lifted for the same month 10 years earlier. Falling production and limited refining capacity are forcing Colombia to import considerably more diesel, mainly for agriculture and transport.
The marked drop in natural gas production poses a dire threat to the economy and the electricity grid. In April 2026, Colombia lifted 694 million cubic feet of natural gas per day, which is close to a multidecade low. It is also significantly less than the 1 billion cubic feet per day produced for the same period a month earlier. The widening supply gap between domestic demand and production forced Bogota, during December 2016, to start importing liquefied natural gas (LNG).
After the closest election in Colombia's modern history, president-elect De la Espriella emerged victorious after a recount with a narrow margin of less than one percent. Considerable controversy surrounds his victory despite left-wing contender Ivan Cepeda conceding defeat after the recount by Colombia's electoral authority, the National Electoral Council (CNE). There are fears that De la Espriella will clamp down on law and order in such a radical manner that it will lead to widespread human rights violations and crimes.
Central to the president-elect's platform is his plan to revive Colombia's fiscally strained economy and achieve annual gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 7%. To pursue that goal, he is supported by Vice President José Manuel Restrepo Abondano, who served as Colombia's Minister of Finance and Public Credit from May 2021 to August 2022 under President Iván Duque. Alongside fiscal austerity aimed at bringing Colombia's ballooning fiscal deficit, expected to reach 7 to 8% of GDP, under control, De la Espriella plans to revive the economically vital oil industry.
A key factor behind Colombia's recent economic malaise is the collapse of the once-dominant hydrocarbon sector. Indeed, over the last decade, oil and natural gas production has declined sharply, sparking fears of an energy crisis, especially with costly liquified natural gas (LNG) imports spiraling ever higher. By April 2026, oil output of 724,910 barrels per day is well below the 915,087 barrels per day lifted for the same month 10 years earlier. Falling production and limited refining capacity are forcing Colombia to import considerably more diesel, mainly for agriculture and transport.
The marked drop in natural gas production poses a dire threat to the economy and the electricity grid. In April 2026, Colombia lifted 694 million cubic feet of natural gas per day, which is close to a multidecade low. It is also significantly less than the 1 billion cubic feet per day produced for the same period a month earlier. The widening supply gap between domestic demand and production forced Bogota, during December 2016, to start importing liquefied natural gas (LNG).
1 month ago
A former first-round pick could be coming to the Houston Texans should his name be cleared of all crimes.
According to the Detroit Free Press, former first-round pick and Detroit Lions starting cornerback Terrion Arnold took a physical in Houston for the Texans on Thursday.
In an interview with the Detroit Free Press' Dave Birkett, Arnold's agent, Nicole Lynn, said that several teams, including the Texans, have discussed potentially targeting the recently released cornerback in free agency ahead of training camp. Lynn also mentioned the Colts, Jets and Seahawks were among those inquiring about his status.
When asked about his status for the upcoming 206 NFL season, Lynn said that it was a "very good likelihood" that Arnold would be signed in the next 45 days.
Arnold, a former first-round pick out of Alabama, was released late this month after being arrested on felony charges of kidnapping, armed robbery and conspiracy. He was released on a $1 million bond last month and still must undergo a tril.
According to the Detroit Free Press, former first-round pick and Detroit Lions starting cornerback Terrion Arnold took a physical in Houston for the Texans on Thursday.
In an interview with the Detroit Free Press' Dave Birkett, Arnold's agent, Nicole Lynn, said that several teams, including the Texans, have discussed potentially targeting the recently released cornerback in free agency ahead of training camp. Lynn also mentioned the Colts, Jets and Seahawks were among those inquiring about his status.
When asked about his status for the upcoming 206 NFL season, Lynn said that it was a "very good likelihood" that Arnold would be signed in the next 45 days.
Arnold, a former first-round pick out of Alabama, was released late this month after being arrested on felony charges of kidnapping, armed robbery and conspiracy. He was released on a $1 million bond last month and still must undergo a tril.
1 month ago
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has "concrete evidence" linking leaders of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to recent war crimes in the Sudanese region of Darfur, the ICC's deputy chief prosecutor says.
Nazhat Shameem Khan told the BBC the ICC had reached a "breakthrough" in its investigation into the massacres of civilians in the cities of el-Fasher and el-Geneina.
"It may take time for justice to develop, to be brought to the court, but we will get there," Khan said, adding that RSF leaders have also been linked to crimes against humanity.
The siege and takeover of el-Fasher marked one of the bloodiest episodes in the ongoing war between the RSF and Sudan's army.
More than 6,000 people were killed in el-Fasher as the RSF seized the city in October last year, the United Nations says, while the paramilitary group is accused of carrying out a similar massacre in el-Geneina.
Nazhat Shameem Khan told the BBC the ICC had reached a "breakthrough" in its investigation into the massacres of civilians in the cities of el-Fasher and el-Geneina.
"It may take time for justice to develop, to be brought to the court, but we will get there," Khan said, adding that RSF leaders have also been linked to crimes against humanity.
The siege and takeover of el-Fasher marked one of the bloodiest episodes in the ongoing war between the RSF and Sudan's army.
More than 6,000 people were killed in el-Fasher as the RSF seized the city in October last year, the United Nations says, while the paramilitary group is accused of carrying out a similar massacre in el-Geneina.
1 month ago
The Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup promised more mouthwatering ties, and that is exactly what we got.
Morocco started proceedings with a 3-0 win over hosts Canada. Then France made tough work out of a dogged Paraguay side that eliminated Germany in the round prior. An Erling Haaland brace sent Brazil crashing out of the World Cup, while England and Mexico played out the best game of the tournament so far.
Spain and Portugal committed crimes against insomnia, and Belgium played the USMNT off the park. Then Argentina somehow came back to win against Egypt, which they had no business doing. Switzerland vs Colombia was the only game to go to extra time, and then penalties, only for the Swiss to come out on top.
Let’s talk about the biggest winners and losers of the Round of 16.
Wait, Germany? They didn’t even play in this round!
Morocco started proceedings with a 3-0 win over hosts Canada. Then France made tough work out of a dogged Paraguay side that eliminated Germany in the round prior. An Erling Haaland brace sent Brazil crashing out of the World Cup, while England and Mexico played out the best game of the tournament so far.
Spain and Portugal committed crimes against insomnia, and Belgium played the USMNT off the park. Then Argentina somehow came back to win against Egypt, which they had no business doing. Switzerland vs Colombia was the only game to go to extra time, and then penalties, only for the Swiss to come out on top.
Let’s talk about the biggest winners and losers of the Round of 16.
Wait, Germany? They didn’t even play in this round!
1 month ago
ROME (AP) — The traditionalist Catholics who defied Pope Leo XIV and caused a schism defended their actions Friday, insisting they were merely saving souls and were victim of an unjust sanction by the Holy See.
The head of the Society of St. Pius X wrote to Leo a day after the Vatican excommunicated the group's bishops and priests and warned its faithful they too could be excommunicated for participating in the schism, or rupture in church unity.
The society, known as SSPX, celebrates the ancient Latin Mass and opposes the modernizing reforms of the Catholic Church. On Wednesday, it consecrated four new bishops without papal consent during a massive ceremony at its seminary in Econe, Switzerland, committing one of the gravest crimes in church law.
Leo had begged the SSPX not go ahead with the ceremony, but the SSPX defied his will. Within 24 hours, the Vatican declared an exceptionally harsh punishment that surprised even the SSPX's toughest critics.
In his letter to Leo, the SSPX superior, the Rev. Davide Pagliarani cast the SSPX as the defiant guardian of the church's tradition and the victim of an unjust sanction by Rome.
The head of the Society of St. Pius X wrote to Leo a day after the Vatican excommunicated the group's bishops and priests and warned its faithful they too could be excommunicated for participating in the schism, or rupture in church unity.
The society, known as SSPX, celebrates the ancient Latin Mass and opposes the modernizing reforms of the Catholic Church. On Wednesday, it consecrated four new bishops without papal consent during a massive ceremony at its seminary in Econe, Switzerland, committing one of the gravest crimes in church law.
Leo had begged the SSPX not go ahead with the ceremony, but the SSPX defied his will. Within 24 hours, the Vatican declared an exceptionally harsh punishment that surprised even the SSPX's toughest critics.
In his letter to Leo, the SSPX superior, the Rev. Davide Pagliarani cast the SSPX as the defiant guardian of the church's tradition and the victim of an unjust sanction by Rome.
2 months ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Transportation Secretary Pete ***** igieg was the target of an anonymous report that police determined was false and that he says forced him to spend a night away from his four-year-old twins.
According to ***** igieg, a Michigan State Police officer and a child protective services worker came to his home in Traverse City after they received an anonymous report alleging he posed a danger to his children. Authorities arranged forensic interviews for his twins and instructed him not to be alone with them until the interviews were complete.
Buttigieg described the 24-hour ordeal in a Substack post as "among the darkest hours of my life."
Michigan State Police said in a statement to The ***** ociated Press they received an "anonymous report" and that they and child protective services "responded and determined the report was false."
Buttigieg said investigators told him the anonymous caller claimed he had confessed years earlier to violent crimes during a chance meeting in Alabama. ***** igieg said he had never been to the town where the meeting allegedly occurred.
According to ***** igieg, a Michigan State Police officer and a child protective services worker came to his home in Traverse City after they received an anonymous report alleging he posed a danger to his children. Authorities arranged forensic interviews for his twins and instructed him not to be alone with them until the interviews were complete.
Buttigieg described the 24-hour ordeal in a Substack post as "among the darkest hours of my life."
Michigan State Police said in a statement to The ***** ociated Press they received an "anonymous report" and that they and child protective services "responded and determined the report was false."
Buttigieg said investigators told him the anonymous caller claimed he had confessed years earlier to violent crimes during a chance meeting in Alabama. ***** igieg said he had never been to the town where the meeting allegedly occurred.
2 months ago
NFL star Terrion Arnold has been arrested in connection with an alleged kidnapping and robbery incident in Florida in February
Police allege Arnold coordinated the attack after suspecting the victims of stealing $250,000 in belongings from his Airbnb
Arnold denies involvement, and his rep claimed no evidence linked him to the crimes, per a statement shared with The Detroit News
Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold has been arrested in connection with a kidnapping and robbery incident that occurred in Florida earlier this year.
On Wednesday, June 24, the Tampa Police Department confirmed in a news release that Arnold, 23, had been arrested following a robbery that occurred on Feb. 4 at the 14,000 block of N. 46th St. in the city.
Police allege Arnold coordinated the attack after suspecting the victims of stealing $250,000 in belongings from his Airbnb
Arnold denies involvement, and his rep claimed no evidence linked him to the crimes, per a statement shared with The Detroit News
Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold has been arrested in connection with a kidnapping and robbery incident that occurred in Florida earlier this year.
On Wednesday, June 24, the Tampa Police Department confirmed in a news release that Arnold, 23, had been arrested following a robbery that occurred on Feb. 4 at the 14,000 block of N. 46th St. in the city.
2 months ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court sided with the Trump administration Tuesday in an immigration case dealing with the government's power over green card holders accused of crimes.
The 6-3 decision centers on an immigration officers' 2012 decision to put lawful permanent resident Muk Choi Lau on immigration parole when he returned from a short trip to China because he had been accused of a counterfeiting crime.
Lau argued that the officer overstepped their authority, and the decision wrongly allowed the Department of Homeland Security under then-President Barack Obama an easier path to removal after he pleaded guilty to selling counterfeit clothes in New Jersey.
The high court disagreed. "Border officers did not have the burden to establish by clear and convincing evidence that Lau had committed a crime involving moral turpitude," Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in the opinion.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented, writing that the decision to put Lau on immigration parole effectively sentenced him to "immigration limbo" before he'd been convicted of any crime.
The 6-3 decision centers on an immigration officers' 2012 decision to put lawful permanent resident Muk Choi Lau on immigration parole when he returned from a short trip to China because he had been accused of a counterfeiting crime.
Lau argued that the officer overstepped their authority, and the decision wrongly allowed the Department of Homeland Security under then-President Barack Obama an easier path to removal after he pleaded guilty to selling counterfeit clothes in New Jersey.
The high court disagreed. "Border officers did not have the burden to establish by clear and convincing evidence that Lau had committed a crime involving moral turpitude," Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in the opinion.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented, writing that the decision to put Lau on immigration parole effectively sentenced him to "immigration limbo" before he'd been convicted of any crime.
2 months ago
The superintendent of Los Angeles public schools has resigned four months after he was put on paid leave during a federal investigation, saying he wants students to learn "without distraction."
Alberto Carvalho's resignation letter dated Sunday made no direct mention of the Feb. 25 search of his home and the LA Unified School District's headquarters. Two days after the FBI served the search warrants, the district's Board of Education voted unanimously to place Carvalho on leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Authorities have not provided details of the nature of the investigation involving the district, which serves more than 500,000 students. The investigation appears to relate to a contract the school district had with an education technology company whose leader was later indicted for fraud. The company, AllHere, had a contract with the district to create an AI chatbot.
Before becoming the Los Angeles superintendent in 2022, Carvalho had spent his entire education career in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, where he drew national praise for improving graduation rates and academic achievement among Black and Hispanic students. While advocating for Miami's immigrant students, he spoke openly about his own struggles as a young recent arrival from Portugal working in restaurants and construction while homeless at times.
Authorities have not accused Carvalho of any crimes. He denied any wrongdoing earlier this year and had asked to be reinstated as head of the nation's second-largest district. On Sunday he resigned via a letter addressed to "students, families, teachers, staff, and community." He cited what he called "historic progress" made during his tenure.
Alberto Carvalho's resignation letter dated Sunday made no direct mention of the Feb. 25 search of his home and the LA Unified School District's headquarters. Two days after the FBI served the search warrants, the district's Board of Education voted unanimously to place Carvalho on leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Authorities have not provided details of the nature of the investigation involving the district, which serves more than 500,000 students. The investigation appears to relate to a contract the school district had with an education technology company whose leader was later indicted for fraud. The company, AllHere, had a contract with the district to create an AI chatbot.
Before becoming the Los Angeles superintendent in 2022, Carvalho had spent his entire education career in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, where he drew national praise for improving graduation rates and academic achievement among Black and Hispanic students. While advocating for Miami's immigrant students, he spoke openly about his own struggles as a young recent arrival from Portugal working in restaurants and construction while homeless at times.
Authorities have not accused Carvalho of any crimes. He denied any wrongdoing earlier this year and had asked to be reinstated as head of the nation's second-largest district. On Sunday he resigned via a letter addressed to "students, families, teachers, staff, and community." He cited what he called "historic progress" made during his tenure.
2 months ago
By Amina Niasse
NEW YORK, June 21 (Reuters) - People caught vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Washington's National Mall will be fully prosecuted, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said on Sunday.
President Donald Trump has blamed vandalism for recent problems with the newly renovated pool, including its new blue paint peeling off. Citations for vandalism have been issued, Pirro said on Sunday, adding that even minor crimes must be prosecuted to keep the U.S. capital safe.
The peeling paint was visible in the 2,000-foot-long rectangular pool, a major national landmark, less than two weeks after Trump declared its $14.7 million renovation project completed on June 6. Trump on Saturday claimed, without providing evidence, that vandals poured corrosive chemicals into the pool.
"Anyone who is in a position of vandalizing or attempting to vandalize will face the criminal justice system in D.C.," Pirro told Fox News' "Sunday Briefing" program.
NEW YORK, June 21 (Reuters) - People caught vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Washington's National Mall will be fully prosecuted, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said on Sunday.
President Donald Trump has blamed vandalism for recent problems with the newly renovated pool, including its new blue paint peeling off. Citations for vandalism have been issued, Pirro said on Sunday, adding that even minor crimes must be prosecuted to keep the U.S. capital safe.
The peeling paint was visible in the 2,000-foot-long rectangular pool, a major national landmark, less than two weeks after Trump declared its $14.7 million renovation project completed on June 6. Trump on Saturday claimed, without providing evidence, that vandals poured corrosive chemicals into the pool.
"Anyone who is in a position of vandalizing or attempting to vandalize will face the criminal justice system in D.C.," Pirro told Fox News' "Sunday Briefing" program.
2 months ago
By Nivedita Balu
TORONTO, June 19 (Reuters) - Toronto-Dominion Bank told some employees working in its financial crimes and risk management team that it would run software to track their work, prompting questions around consent and privacy in the workplace as the Canadian lender tries to increase productivity, according to a recording of a team call reviewed by Reuters and a document TD shared with employees.
The program will track the time employees spend on browsers and internal chat and meeting applications, according to the recording.
Companies are increasingly facing employee pushback over the deployment of software to monitor their work.
TD said in a statement to Reuters the deployment is "standard practice across the industry." "In various parts of our business, we use automated solutions to improve insights and better allocate resources," the company said. "This is not AI and not specific to any business or matter, the tool allows managers to more accurately manage workflows, team capacity and performance. Where deployed, colleagues are informed about where they are used and for what purpose."
TORONTO, June 19 (Reuters) - Toronto-Dominion Bank told some employees working in its financial crimes and risk management team that it would run software to track their work, prompting questions around consent and privacy in the workplace as the Canadian lender tries to increase productivity, according to a recording of a team call reviewed by Reuters and a document TD shared with employees.
The program will track the time employees spend on browsers and internal chat and meeting applications, according to the recording.
Companies are increasingly facing employee pushback over the deployment of software to monitor their work.
TD said in a statement to Reuters the deployment is "standard practice across the industry." "In various parts of our business, we use automated solutions to improve insights and better allocate resources," the company said. "This is not AI and not specific to any business or matter, the tool allows managers to more accurately manage workflows, team capacity and performance. Where deployed, colleagues are informed about where they are used and for what purpose."
2 months ago
WARSAW, Poland (AP) — Polish President Karol Nawrocki said Friday he will strip Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Poland's highest state honor over the Ukraine leader's decision to name a military unit after a Ukrainian paramilitary organization accused of massacring Poles during World War II.
Zelenskyy was awarded the Order of the White Eagle in 2023 by Poland's then President Andrzej Duda for his services to security, resilience and the defence of human rights.
But it will now be revoked after Zelenskyy issued a decree on May 26 naming a military unit of Ukraine's Special Operations Forces after the UPA — the Ukrainian Insurgent Army — which operated during the 1940s and 1950s and which is accused in Poland of mass killings.
"For the majority of Polish society, the Ukrainian Insurgent Army remains above all a formation responsible for cruel crimes against the citizens of the Polish Republic during World War II," Nawrocki said in a 13-minute address on social media.
Nawrocki said his decision to revoke the honor did not mean Poland's support for Ukraine in its defense against Russia would decrease.
Zelenskyy was awarded the Order of the White Eagle in 2023 by Poland's then President Andrzej Duda for his services to security, resilience and the defence of human rights.
But it will now be revoked after Zelenskyy issued a decree on May 26 naming a military unit of Ukraine's Special Operations Forces after the UPA — the Ukrainian Insurgent Army — which operated during the 1940s and 1950s and which is accused in Poland of mass killings.
"For the majority of Polish society, the Ukrainian Insurgent Army remains above all a formation responsible for cruel crimes against the citizens of the Polish Republic during World War II," Nawrocki said in a 13-minute address on social media.
Nawrocki said his decision to revoke the honor did not mean Poland's support for Ukraine in its defense against Russia would decrease.
2 months ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court ruled Thursday against a broad federal ban on gun ownership by marijuana users, the latest in a line of firearm cases from a court that has expanded gun rights.
The justices decided unanimously in favor of Ali Danial Hemani, a Texas man who argued that a law barring guns from anyone who regularly uses illegal drugs violates the Second Amendment.
Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote that his opinion narrowly limits the government's power to take guns away from drug users who are not considered dangerous. Hemani, who was not charged with any other crimes or accused of using the weapon under the influence, is thankful he "finally has closure," lawyer Zachary Newland said.
The justices decided unanimously in favor of Ali Danial Hemani, a Texas man who argued that a law barring guns from anyone who regularly uses illegal drugs violates the Second Amendment.
Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote that his opinion narrowly limits the government's power to take guns away from drug users who are not considered dangerous. Hemani, who was not charged with any other crimes or accused of using the weapon under the influence, is thankful he "finally has closure," lawyer Zachary Newland said.
2 months ago
Diddy has won a major victory against one of his former collaborators.
The incarcerated rapper, once one of the biggest Hip-Hop moguls, continues to face scathing allegations related to ******* ual ******* ault and abuse.
Dawn Richard, a former member of Diddy's Dirty Money trio, was among the people accusing him of heinous crimes. However, she recently lost her case against him.
The drama between Diddy and Richard began in September 2024 when she filed a civil lawsuit accusing him of retaliation and harassment. Nearly two years later, a federal judge has dismissed all but one of Richard's allegations against the rapper.
According to court documents, the judge made the call to dismiss the majority of Richard's allegations because they had passed the statute of limitations. On that note, she could not refile any of these charges against Diddy except for one.
The incarcerated rapper, once one of the biggest Hip-Hop moguls, continues to face scathing allegations related to ******* ual ******* ault and abuse.
Dawn Richard, a former member of Diddy's Dirty Money trio, was among the people accusing him of heinous crimes. However, she recently lost her case against him.
The drama between Diddy and Richard began in September 2024 when she filed a civil lawsuit accusing him of retaliation and harassment. Nearly two years later, a federal judge has dismissed all but one of Richard's allegations against the rapper.
According to court documents, the judge made the call to dismiss the majority of Richard's allegations because they had passed the statute of limitations. On that note, she could not refile any of these charges against Diddy except for one.
2 months ago
An Ohio police chief is facing the possibility of spending the rest of his life behind bars after being slapped with a 70-count indictment for alleged **** crimes involving a child.
Bethel Police Chief Chad Essert, 44, was taken into custody without incident Tuesday night in Seminole, Florida, by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
A Clermont County grand jury indicted the Blanchester, Ohio, resident on 56 counts of **** ual battery and 14 counts of unlawful **** ual conduct with a minor — all third-degree felonies.
Texas Sheriff Arrested By His Own Deputies, Now Faces New Charge For Lying To Grand Jury
If convicted of all charges, Essert faces a maximum penalty of 280 years in prison.
Bethel Police Chief Chad Essert, 44, was taken into custody without incident Tuesday night in Seminole, Florida, by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
A Clermont County grand jury indicted the Blanchester, Ohio, resident on 56 counts of **** ual battery and 14 counts of unlawful **** ual conduct with a minor — all third-degree felonies.
Texas Sheriff Arrested By His Own Deputies, Now Faces New Charge For Lying To Grand Jury
If convicted of all charges, Essert faces a maximum penalty of 280 years in prison.
2 months ago
DETROIT (AP) — The Michigan Court of Appeals on Tuesday threw out the conviction of a man who was found guilty of a secondary role in a plot to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2020.
Joe Morrison was convicted of providing material support for an act of terrorism and other charges. In a 3-0 ruling, the appeals court reversed the results on technical grounds, saying kidnapping is not an underlying violent felony that can support a conviction under Michigan's terrorism law.
Morrison, 32, has been in prison since 2022. He was given a minimum sentence of 10 years for three crimes, but the length was subsequently reduced to six years.
State Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat, was livid about the appeals court decision, calling it "completely and irredeemably nonsensical, outrageous and irresponsible," and promised to take the case to the Michigan Supreme Court.
Morrison, Pete Musico and Paul Bellar were not charged with having a direct role in the plot to kidnap Whitmer. But they were members of a paramilitary group that trained with Adam Fox, a key figure who is serving a 16-year prison sentence after being convicted of conspiracy in federal court.
Joe Morrison was convicted of providing material support for an act of terrorism and other charges. In a 3-0 ruling, the appeals court reversed the results on technical grounds, saying kidnapping is not an underlying violent felony that can support a conviction under Michigan's terrorism law.
Morrison, 32, has been in prison since 2022. He was given a minimum sentence of 10 years for three crimes, but the length was subsequently reduced to six years.
State Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat, was livid about the appeals court decision, calling it "completely and irredeemably nonsensical, outrageous and irresponsible," and promised to take the case to the Michigan Supreme Court.
Morrison, Pete Musico and Paul Bellar were not charged with having a direct role in the plot to kidnap Whitmer. But they were members of a paramilitary group that trained with Adam Fox, a key figure who is serving a 16-year prison sentence after being convicted of conspiracy in federal court.