News

Native American Tribe Faces Backlash Over Detention Center Design Contract

The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation faces significant backlash from other Native Americans following the revelation of a nearly $30 million federal contract awarded to a tribal business entity for the design of immigrant detention centers. Critics condemn the tribe’s actions, citing historical parallels to their own forced removal and detention by the U.S. government. Tribal leaders are now seeking ways to end the contract and have fired the economic development leaders involved. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) dealings with tribes are facing increased scrutiny, especially as federal funding decreases, pressuring tribes to generate revenue.

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Girls Awarded $31.5M After Sister’s Torture Death, Failures of Police and Church Highlighted

A $31.5 million settlement has been reached in a lawsuit concerning the death of 11-year-old Arabella McCormack, who was allegedly tortured and starved by her adoptive family. The settlement includes contributions from the city and county of San Diego, as well as Pacific Coast Academy and the Rock Church, following claims of systemic failures to report the abuse. The suit, brought on behalf of Arabella’s two younger sisters, alleged that social workers, teachers, and a police officer failed to act on abuse claims. The adoptive parents and grandparents are facing murder and child abuse charges, while the sisters are now in foster care.

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Director Convicted of Scamming Netflix, Spent Millions on Lavish Purchases

Carl Erik Rinsch, the director of “47 Ronin,” has been convicted of wire fraud and money laundering charges for scamming Netflix out of $11 million. According to court records, the funds were intended for an unfinished sci-fi show but were instead used for extravagant purchases, including multiple Rolls-Royces, a Ferrari, and luxury bedding. Prosecutors stated that Rinsch made failed investments and crypto transactions before diverting the funds to personal expenses. Rinsch’s sentencing is scheduled for April, with Netflix declining to comment on the matter.

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FDA Approves New Gonorrhea Antibiotics Amidst Drug Resistance Concerns

The FDA has recently approved two new oral antibiotics, zoliflodacin and gepotidacin, for the treatment of gonorrhea, marking the first new treatments in decades. These approvals come amid rising cases of gonorrhea and increasing antibiotic resistance to existing treatments. Both medications offer the advantage of oral administration, potentially improving patient access and convenience compared to the current injectable standard of care. Clinical trials demonstrated comparable efficacy and safety profiles for the new drugs.

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DeSantis Admin Diverts Child Welfare Funds to Consultants, Ads

This article provides contact information for several investigative and state government reporters. Justin Garcia, an investigative reporter, can be reached at a specified email address. Alexandra Glorioso, a state government reporter for the Miami Herald, is based in Tallahassee. Additionally, Lawrence Mower, a Tallahassee correspondent, can be contacted via email. The article also notes that while a sample of comments is publicly available, a Times subscription is required to participate in the online discussion.

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Peter Greene, ‘Pulp Fiction’ and ‘The Mask’ Actor, Dies at 60

Actor Peter Greene, recognized for portraying memorable villains in films, has died at the age of 60 in his New York City apartment. His manager confirmed the news, noting that Greene was found dead at his home, but a cause of death was not disclosed. Greene was best known for playing Zed in “Pulp Fiction” and Dorian in “The Mask,” but he also had roles in “The Usual Suspects,” and “Training Day.” He leaves behind a legacy of compelling performances as a character actor.

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NYC Stabbing: SoCal Woman Attacked in Macy’s Bathroom, Raising Mental Health Concerns

A Southern California woman was stabbed multiple times while changing her baby’s diaper in a Macy’s bathroom in New York City. The alleged attacker, Kerri Aherne, reportedly claimed to have been hearing voices instructing her to kill and had recently been discharged from a psychiatric hospital. Aherne is facing multiple charges including attempted murder, after allegedly purchasing a knife from the store and stabbing the victim from behind. The victim, who is an employee of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, was treated at a local hospital and released.

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Utah Repeals Ban on Collective Bargaining: A Win for Unions, a Shift in Strategy

Utah has repealed a recently enacted ban on collective bargaining for public employees following significant backlash. The original policy, passed by the Republican-controlled legislature, prevented unions representing teachers, firefighters, and other public servants from negotiating on their workers’ behalf. After months of opposition, including protests and pressure from union members, the legislature ultimately reversed course during a special session. This decision is seen as a strategic move by Republicans to appease conservative-leaning groups like police officers and firefighters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

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81 Women Sue Army Gynecologist After Criminal Charges: Systemic Failures and Anger

In a significant development, 81 more women have joined a civil suit against Army Major Blaine McGraw, who is facing criminal charges for secretly filming patients. The civil lawsuit, which initially began in November, accuses McGraw of inappropriate touching, voyeurism, and covert filming during gynecological exams at Fort Hood in Texas. The updated complaint expands on these allegations, accusing McGraw of assault, sexual assault, and battery under Texas law. The case is expected to test the effectiveness of recent Pentagon reforms aimed at addressing sexual misconduct and supporting survivors.

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