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Freelance journalist Mukesh Chandrakar, known for his anti-corruption reporting, was found murdered in a septic tank on a construction contractor’s property in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh. Police have arrested three suspects, with one still at large, and believe his recent report on a road construction scam led to his death. The killing sparked outrage among Indian media groups and calls for a thorough investigation into the journalist’s death. This incident underscores the ongoing dangers faced by journalists in India, highlighting the need for greater protection.
Judge Lewis J. Liman held Rudy Giuliani in contempt of court for failing to comply with orders to provide information related to a $148 million defamation judgment. Giuliani’s insufficient disclosure of assets, including incomplete lists of doctors and other service providers, led the judge to exclude certain testimony and draw inferences from the missing evidence. This non-compliance stemmed from Giuliani’s claims that requests were overly broad and a “trap,” a justification the judge rejected. The ruling impacts a trial concerning Giuliani’s Florida condominium, with sanctions potentially impacting his ability to retain the property.
Louisiana reported the first U.S. death from the H5N1 bird flu virus, an individual over 65 with pre-existing health conditions who contracted the virus from backyard birds in December. While 66 H5N1 cases have been confirmed nationwide, most were mild; this case is unique due to its severity and the individual’s infection from a strain distinct from that affecting cattle. Genetic analysis revealed potential adaptations in the virus, enabling enhanced binding to human upper airway cells, though no evidence of human-to-human transmission exists.
Keith Middlebrook, a part-time actor with minor roles in films such as “Iron Man 2,” received an eight-year prison sentence for wire fraud related to a fraudulent COVID-19 cure scheme. His conviction stemmed from soliciting investors based on false claims, including a purported relationship with Magic Johnson, who vehemently denied any involvement. The judge cited Middlebrook’s continued denial of guilt and perjury as factors in the sentencing, rejecting defense appeals. Middlebrook’s attorney plans to appeal, alleging that Johnson perjured himself.
In stark contrast to the violent January 6th, 2021 attack on the Capitol, the 2024 electoral vote certification proceeded smoothly and without incident. Vice President Harris formally declared Donald Trump the winner, fulfilling her constitutional duty despite past criticisms of him. Increased security measures and legislative changes following the 2021 riot significantly mitigated the potential for disruption. However, the contrasting atmospheres highlighted the ongoing political divisions, with Democrats expressing anger over the perceived disparity in security and response.
Robert “Bobby” Kinch, a former Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department homicide detective who left the force after advocating for a “race war,” now leads the Utah-based Oath Keepers USA. Evidence obtained by an infiltrator reveals Kinch’s continued involvement with the anti-government group, including firearms, survival gear, and Oath Keepers materials found in his home. This highlights the concerning presence of law enforcement officers within the Oath Keepers, a group central to the January 6th insurrection. The potential return of Donald Trump to the presidency could embolden such groups, exacerbating the threat posed by extremists within police departments.
King Frederik’s updated royal coat of arms replaces the traditional three crowns with a more prominent polar bear and ram, symbolizing Greenland and the Faroe Islands respectively. This change, recommended by a committee following the King’s accession, is seen by some as a response to increased tensions surrounding Greenland’s relationship with Denmark and recent US interest in purchasing the territory. The removal of the three crowns, historically significant but deemed no longer relevant, strengthens the visual prominence of the commonwealth, according to the royal household. This decision is interpreted by experts as a political statement affirming Denmark’s commitment to maintaining the unity of the realm.
Aaron Thacker, a veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, experienced a profound sense of fear and horror during both 9/11 and the January 6th Capitol attack, drawing a parallel between the events. His military instincts led him to keep his firearm readily accessible during the insurrection, highlighting the gravity of the situation for him. Despite the subsequent investigations and indictments, Trump’s 2024 election victory resulted in the dismissal of the charges, leaving many, including law enforcement officers who defended the Capitol, feeling the violence has been normalized and accountability evaded. The lack of consequences underscores a deep concern that such actions may be repeated, leaving many fearing for the future.
Kim Jong-un’s regime has prohibited the sale and preparation of hotdogs in North Korea, citing concerns about the infiltration of Western culture. This ban, resulting in potential arrest and hard labor for violators, reflects a broader crackdown on perceived foreign influences. The increasing popularity of hotdogs in South Korea likely fueled this decision, which positions the consumption of this food as an act of treason. This action is not isolated, as other foods have faced similar restrictions.
John Q. Hosedrinker