Skeletal remains discovered in Washington State have been identified as those of Edwin Asher, the former mayor of Fossil, Oregon, who disappeared in 2006. Asher vanished while crabbing in Tillamook Bay, leading to the assumption that he drowned and was declared dead that same year. Despite the discovery of skeletal remains in a Washington County in November of 2006, the individual remained unidentified until the Grays Harbor Coroner’s Office and Othram, a forensic genetic genealogy lab, employed genome sequencing and genetic genealogy, ultimately leading to the identification of the remains as Asher. The identification was confirmed after comparison to a relative’s DNA, ending the 20-year mystery of his disappearance.
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The Associated Press, established in 1846, operates as a global news organization committed to factual reporting. It is recognized as a highly trustworthy source for delivering fast, accurate, and unbiased news across various formats. AP also provides crucial technology and services for the news industry. Consequently, AP’s journalism reaches over half the world’s population daily.
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The Justice Department is reportedly investigating Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for potential obstruction of federal immigration enforcement, specifically focusing on a possible conspiracy statute violation. The investigation stems from public statements made by the officials. Both Walz and Frey have responded, with Walz’s office denying any official notification of an investigation and both leaders condemning the move as politically motivated intimidation. This investigation coincides with a large-scale immigration crackdown in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, resulting in over 2,500 arrests.
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In Minneapolis, a federal judge has ruled that immigration enforcement officers cannot detain or use tear gas on peaceful protesters who are not obstructing authorities. The ruling, stemming from a case filed by six activists observing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol operations, addresses clashes that have occurred since an immigration crackdown began last month. The judge’s decision specifically prohibits the detention of drivers and passengers without reasonable suspicion of obstruction, and also prevents arrests without probable cause. This ruling comes amidst another lawsuit filed by the state of Minnesota and two cities seeking to suspend the crackdown.
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Reports have surfaced of Trump administration officers in Minneapolis and surrounding areas stopping U.S. citizens, demanding identification and questioning their citizenship, sparking concerns about potential overreach. One man, Gage Diego Garcia, recounted a six-hour detention after refusing to provide ID, alleging aggressive behavior and threats from officers. The Department of Homeland Security defended these actions, citing the Fourth Amendment’s allowance for “reasonable suspicion,” while critics argue these practices enable racial profiling and violate constitutional rights. Legal experts emphasize that U.S. citizens are not required to provide identification when walking in public, and advise individuals to remain calm and inquire about the reason for the stop.
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Geraldo Lunas Campos, a Cuban immigrant, died in a Texas immigration detention facility following an altercation with guards, and the medical examiner has indicated the death will likely be classified as a homicide. While the government claims he attempted suicide, a witness stated that Campos was handcuffed, tackled, and placed in a chokehold before losing consciousness. The incident occurred at Camp Montana East, a facility built on an Army base and operated by a private contractor, and is currently under investigation. Campos’s family disputes the government’s account and seeks justice, highlighting conflicting narratives and concerns about conditions in immigration detention.
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The author, a former Maricopa County recorder, urges Governor Polis not to pardon Tina Peters. Peters was convicted for violating election laws by allowing unauthorized access to sensitive voting data, betraying the responsibilities of an election administrator. Pardoning her would undermine confidence in election integrity, signal that election administrators are not valued, and potentially embolden future attacks on election officials, particularly by those influenced by figures like Donald Trump. The author emphasizes the importance of allowing the legal process to run its course to maintain the integrity of the election system.
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As the government faces another potential shutdown, Democrats are urged to leverage this opportunity to address the delayed release of the Epstein files. With the public largely in favor of transparency and a law already mandating the files’ release, Democrats should make any funding vote contingent on the appointment of an independent special master to oversee the release, as evidence suggests a cover-up. This strategy would place blame squarely on President Trump if he refuses, potentially exposing child sex traffickers and those who may be complicit. Ultimately, this approach offers Democrats a chance to unite, garner public support, and hold the administration accountable.
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The world has entered a post-western era marked by illiberal international disorder, as exemplified by potential actions of Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. A recent global poll reveals a decline in European and global confidence in the US as an ally. The path forward requires a new internationalism that embraces power while rejecting force, and focuses on results over rules. Actions need to be taken regarding Greenland, including diplomatic visits and strengthening financial ties to the EU, which would demonstrate resolve in the face of uncertainty.
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President Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on countries that do not support his ambitions to annex Greenland. The President cited national security concerns as the reason for this potential action, though he did not specify which countries would be affected or the legal basis for such tariffs. This threat comes amidst significant international opposition and a visit from a bipartisan congressional delegation to Greenland, who aim to understand the local perspective and lower tensions. Despite the strong opposition, the US envoy to Greenland stated he believes a deal will be made.
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John Q. Hosedrinker
Judge Blocks ICE Tactics Against Minneapolis Protesters, Raising Enforcement Concerns
In Minneapolis, a federal judge has ruled that immigration enforcement officers cannot detain or use tear gas on peaceful protesters who are not obstructing authorities. The ruling, stemming from a case filed by six activists observing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol operations, addresses clashes that have occurred since an immigration crackdown began last month. The judge’s decision specifically prohibits the detention of drivers and passengers without reasonable suspicion of obstruction, and also prevents arrests without probable cause. This ruling comes amidst another lawsuit filed by the state of Minnesota and two cities seeking to suspend the crackdown.
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