breaking911--2020-08-31--Kansas City Fire Captain Admits In Federal Court To Selling Dozens of Guns To Felons, Including One

Kansas City Fire Captain Admits In Federal Court To Selling Dozens of Guns To Felons, Including One Used In Murder

KANSAS CITY , Mo .
– A former captain in the Kansas City , Missouri , Fire Department pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges related to illegally selling 77 firearms over a five-year period , and to selling firearms to convicted felons .
“ Our gun laws exist to make it hard for violent criminals to obtain the tools of their trade , ” Garrison said .
“ Felons , illegal aliens , domestic abusers , drug users , and other prohibited persons can not purchase or possess firearms — unless someone breaks the law to put guns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not pull the trigger , but they profit by making violent crime possible in our neighborhoods.
” James Samuels , 54 , of Kansas City , Mo.
, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner to one count of conspiracy to make false statements during the purchase of firearms , one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license , four counts of selling firearms and ammunition to persons prohibited by law from possessing them , and one count of possessing an unregistered firearm .
Samuels , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bond since his arrest on Oct. 4 , 2018 , remains in federal custody until his sentencing hearing , which has not yet been scheduled .
By pleading guilty today , Samuels admitted that he purchased 77 firearms from November 2013 to August 2018 .
Of those 77 firearms , 57 were Jimenez pistols .
Samuels transferred 47 of those 77 firearms to third parties ( including 43 Jimenez pistols ) .
During this time , Samuels was not a licensed dealer of firearms .
Samuels also admitted that 10 to 20 of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were forbidden by law from possessing them .
Samuels bought the firearms at a low price and sold them for a $ 40 to $ 50 profit .
Samuels conspired with others to make false statements to federally licensed firearms dealers by misrepresenting the identity of the actual buyer of firearms .
Samuels purchased firearms then transferred ownership to another person , who later reported the firearms had been stolen .
Samuels was arrested on Oct. 4 , 2018 , following an undercover operation in which he sold an Armscor of the Philippines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he knew to be a felon .
Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Samuels ’ s residence the same day and seized 28 firearms ( including 22 handguns , five rifles and one shotgun ) .
Among the firearms seized was a Glock .40-caliber pistol with a TAC Isran GLR 440 stock installed , which was not registered to Samuels , and a Colt .45-caliber pistol , which had been reported stolen .
In addition to the firearms , officers seized approximately 12,000 rounds of assorted ammunition , as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 , 2018 , transaction is one of four instances cited in today ’ s plea agreement in which the same confidential informant , whom Samuels knew was a felon and thus prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition , purchased a firearm and ammunition from Samuels .
In each of those four instances , Samuels accompanied the confidential informant and an undercover federal agent to a licensed firearms dealer , where the undercover agent completed the paperwork for the straw purchase of the firearm on behalf of the confidential informant .
In each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the direction of Samuels .
Under the terms of today ’ s plea agreement , Samuels acknowledges that he has the ability to pay a fine and agrees that $ 11,282 seized by law enforcement officers during the execution of the search warrant at his residence will be applied to any fine imposed by the court .
Under federal statutes , Samuels is subject to a sentence of up to 60 years in federal prison without parole .
The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors .
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office .

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A former captain in the Kansas City, Missouri, Fire Department pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges related to illegally selling 77 firearms over a five-year period, and to selling firearms to convicted felons.
“Our gun laws exist to make it hard for violent criminals to obtain the tools of their trade,” Garrison said. “Felons, illegal aliens, domestic abusers, drug users, and other prohibited persons cannot purchase or possess firearms — unless someone breaks the law to put guns in their hands. These criminals may not pull the trigger, but they profit by making violent crime possible in our neighborhoods.”
James Samuels, 54, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner to one count of conspiracy to make false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license, four counts of selling firearms and ammunition to persons prohibited by law from possessing them, and one count of possessing an unregistered firearm. Samuels, who has been in federal custody without bond since his arrest on Oct. 4, 2018, remains in federal custody until his sentencing hearing, which has not yet been scheduled.
By pleading guilty today, Samuels admitted that he purchased 77 firearms from November 2013 to August 2018. Of those 77 firearms, 57 were Jimenez pistols. Samuels transferred 47 of those 77 firearms to third parties (including 43 Jimenez pistols). During this time, Samuels was not a licensed dealer of firearms.
Samuels also admitted that 10 to 20 of those firearms were sold to persons who were forbidden by law from possessing them. Samuels bought the firearms at a low price and sold them for a $40 to $50 profit.
Samuels conspired with others to make false statements to federally licensed firearms dealers by misrepresenting the identity of the actual buyer of firearms. Samuels purchased firearms then transferred ownership to another person, who later reported the firearms had been stolen.
Samuels was arrested on Oct. 4, 2018, following an undercover operation in which he sold an Armscor of the Philippines .38-caliber revolver to a confidential informant whom he knew to be a felon. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Samuels’s residence the same day and seized 28 firearms (including 22 handguns, five rifles and one shotgun). Among the firearms seized was a Glock .40-caliber pistol with a TAC Isran GLR 440 stock installed, which was not registered to Samuels, and a Colt .45-caliber pistol, which had been reported stolen. In addition to the firearms, officers seized approximately 12,000 rounds of assorted ammunition, as well as firearm parts and accessories.
The Oct. 4, 2018, transaction is one of four instances cited in today’s plea agreement in which the same confidential informant, whom Samuels knew was a felon and thus prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition, purchased a firearm and ammunition from Samuels. In each of those four instances, Samuels accompanied the confidential informant and an undercover federal agent to a licensed firearms dealer, where the undercover agent completed the paperwork for the straw purchase of the firearm on behalf of the confidential informant. In each instance, the straw purchase was at the direction of Samuels.
Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Samuels acknowledges that he has the ability to pay a fine and agrees that $11,282 seized by law enforcement officers during the execution of the search warrant at his residence will be applied to any fine imposed by the court.
Under federal statutes, Samuels is subject to a sentence of up to 60 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
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breaking911--2020-08-31--Body Found in Van’s Cargo Area After Crash In Virginia; Cause of Death Unknown

The Virginia State Police are investigating a death following a traffic crash this past week in Prince William County .
At 2:25 a.m. Thursday ( Aug. 27 ) , Virginia State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash in Prince William County .
A tractor-trailer had been stopped on the right shoulder of the southbound lanes of I-95 near Exit 160 for Route 123/Occoquan Lake Ridge .
As the tractor-trailer began to pull back into the southbound travel lanes , it was struck from behind by a van .
The tractor-trailer left the scene and continued southbound on I-95 .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , full-size Chevrolet work van was treated at the scene for minor injuries .
After the scene was cleared , the body of a “ young , adult male ” was located in the back cargo area of the van .
The body was transported to the Office of the Medical Examiner in Manassas for examination , autopsy and positive identification .
The driver of the van was not identified and , at this time , has not been charged with a crime .
The investigation into the crash and unattended death remain @ @

The Virginia State Police are investigating a death following a traffic crash this past week in Prince William County.
At 2:25 a.m. Thursday (Aug. 27), Virginia State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash in Prince William County. A tractor-trailer had been stopped on the right shoulder of the southbound lanes of I-95 near Exit 160 for Route 123/Occoquan Lake Ridge. As the tractor-trailer began to pull back into the southbound travel lanes, it was struck from behind by a van. The tractor-trailer left the scene and continued southbound on I-95.
The adult, male driver of the white, full-size Chevrolet work van was treated at the scene for minor injuries. After the scene was cleared, the body of a “young, adult male” was located in the back cargo area of the van. The body was transported to the Office of the Medical Examiner in Manassas for examination, autopsy and positive identification.
While you slept ~230a Prince William Co, VA @mcfrs MDTF-1 came upon a vehicle collision on I95 & few of MD-TF1 units stopped & rendered aid until local fire rescue arrived – the @MontgomeryCoMD caravan will be headed to golf region via next stop in Charlotte, NC – safe travels pic.twitter.com/4rLY8JJ57h — Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) August 27, 2020
The driver of the van was not identified and, at this time, has not been charged with a crime.
The investigation into the crash and unattended death remain ongoing.
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breaking911--2020-08-31--Border Patrol Finds $4 Million Worth of Weed Stacked Near Rio Grande

LAREDO , Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Laredo North Station ( LRN ) seized more than $ @ @ @ @ @ in northwest Laredo .
The incident happened on the evening of August 27 , when @ @ @ @ @ the northwest part of the city near the Rio Grande riverbanks .
Agents discovered several @ @ @ @ @ a grassy area near a warehouse property .
A thorough search of the immediate area @ @ @ @ @ around and inside a box trailer .
A total of 245 bundles containing marijuana were @ @ @ @ @ an approximate weight of 5,350.39 pounds with an estimated street value of $ 4,280,312 .
@ @ @ @ @ over to the Drug Enforcement Administration pending investigation .
The trailer with narcotics in its @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. Border Patrol .

LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents from the Laredo North Station (LRN) seized more than $4 million worth of marijuana in northwest Laredo.
The incident happened on the evening of August 27, when LRN agents were patrolling in the northwest part of the city near the Rio Grande riverbanks. Agents discovered several bundles of marijuana scattered in a grassy area near a warehouse property. A thorough search of the immediate area resulted in more bundles stacked around and inside a box trailer.
A total of 245 bundles containing marijuana were seized. The bundles had an approximate weight of 5,350.39 pounds with an estimated street value of $4,280,312. The narcotics were subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration pending investigation. The trailer with narcotics in its cargo area was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
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breaking911--2020-08-31--Pair Arrested After Deadly Police Chase That Killed Innocent Couple Sitting on Restaurant Patio

CINCINNATI – A federal grand jury has charged the two individuals allegedly involved in an Aug. 7 chase through Cincinnati that resulted in the deaths of two bystanders in Newport , Ky .
The indictment was returned Aug. 26 and unsealed today .
Mason Meyer , 28 , and Kirsten Johnson , 22 , both of Cincinnati , are charged federally with possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime .
Meyer is also charged with illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon .
In Campbell County , Ky. , Meyer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , endangerment , and fleeing and evading .
According to court documents , officials with the ATF , Cincinnati Police and the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force were surveilling Meyer in Cincinnati on Aug. 7 when Meyer drove away .
Cincinnati Police officers attempted to stop Meyer when he fled , causing a police chase through Cincinnati and into Covington and Newport , Ky. Local court documents detail that Meyer ’ s vehicle struck and killed a couple dining on the patio of Press on Monmouth in Newport , Ky. Two other pedestrians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At the time of the chase , the federal indictment alleges Meyer and Johnson possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine , two loaded handguns and a loaded rifle .
The methamphetamine charge in this case is punishable by five to 40 years in prison .
Possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is punishable by a minimum of five years in prison .
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon carries a potential maximum punishment of 10 years in prison .
David M. DeVillers , United States Attorney for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Special Agent in Charge , U.S. Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms and Explosives ( ATF ) ; Cincinnati Police Chief Eliot K. Isaac and agencies with the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force announced the charges .
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy D. Oakley and Jennifer K. Weinhold are representing the United States in this case .

CINCINNATI – A federal grand jury has charged the two individuals allegedly involved in an Aug. 7 chase through Cincinnati that resulted in the deaths of two bystanders in Newport, Ky. The indictment was returned Aug. 26 and unsealed today.
Mason Meyer, 28, and Kirsten Johnson, 22, both of Cincinnati, are charged federally with possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Meyer is also charged with illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. In Campbell County, Ky., Meyer is charged with two counts of murder, endangerment, and fleeing and evading.
According to court documents, officials with the ATF, Cincinnati Police and the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force were surveilling Meyer in Cincinnati on Aug. 7 when Meyer drove away.
Cincinnati Police officers attempted to stop Meyer when he fled, causing a police chase through Cincinnati and into Covington and Newport, Ky.
Local court documents detail that Meyer’s vehicle struck and killed a couple dining on the patio of Press on Monmouth in Newport, Ky. Two other pedestrians were struck and suffered minor injuries.
At the time of the chase, the federal indictment alleges Meyer and Johnson possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, two loaded handguns and a loaded rifle.
The methamphetamine charge in this case is punishable by five to 40 years in prison. Possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is punishable by a minimum of five years in prison. Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon carries a potential maximum punishment of 10 years in prison.
David M. DeVillers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Roland Herndon, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Cincinnati Police Chief Eliot K. Isaac and agencies with the Northern Kentucky Drug Strike Force announced the charges. Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy D. Oakley and Jennifer K. Weinhold are representing the United States in this case.
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breaking911--2020-08-31--Man Admits To Running Multiple COVID-19 Relief Schemes

A North Carolina man pleaded guilty today to perpetrating three schemes between March and July 2020 connected to the COVID-19 pandemic , through which he defrauded consumers and the federal government ’ s relief programs .
Brandon Lewis , 34 , of Greensboro , North Carolina , pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging two counts of wire fraud and one count of making false statements to the Small Business Administration ( SBA ) .
“ Brandon Lewis today admitted to a wide range of brazen schemes specifically designed to profit illegally from the COVID-19 pandemic by defrauding scores of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a financial lifeline , ” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department ’ s Criminal Division .
“ The department and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively pursue and hold accountable those who seek to illegally exploit the ongoing national emergency for their own personal benefit at the expense of hardworking Americans and businesses.
” “ In the midst of a pandemic and as the economy suffered , this defendant lined his pockets by cheating online customers , small businesses , and , ultimately , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basic health and cleaning supplies while under stay at home orders , and from entrepreneurs struggling to keep their businesses afloat , may be the nadir of fraudulent conduct , ” said U.S. Attorney Matthew G.T .
Martin of the Middle District of North Carolina .
“ I commend the excellent coordinated efforts of IRS Criminal Investigation , U.S .
Postal Inspection Service , the Small Business Administration Inspector General , and the Treasury Inspector General .
We will aggressively investigate and prosecute anyone who tries to profit by preying on people during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ example of greed controlling one ’ s actions .
In a time of crisis and vulnerability in our country , Mr. Lewis promised assistance and help , but delivered more heartache and anxiety , ” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew D. Line of the IRS-Criminal Investigation ( IRS-CI ) .
“ I am proud of the way IRS-Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners quickly responded to these selfish criminal acts .
We are committed to rooting out those seeking to defraud the hard-working citizens of this country during this pandemic.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will remain vigilant in bringing to justice anyone that seeks to defraud individuals during this pandemic , ” said Inspector in Charge Tommy D. Coke of the U.S .
Postal Inspection Service ( USPIS ) Atlanta Division .
“ These schemes highlights the importance of collaboration with our law enforcement partners to investigate and stop those seeking to take advantage of innocent victims.
” “ It is unacceptable to defraud small businesses that are struggling during these unprecedented times , ” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Kupperbusch of the SBA ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Eastern Region .
“ Our office will relentlessly pursue fraudsters that use SBA ’ s programs for greed and personal gain .
I want to thank the Justice Department and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.
” “ In the midst of this pandemic , anyone who attempts to engage in illegal activity will be aggressively pursued , ” said J. Russell George , Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration ( TIGTA ) .
“ Our mission at TIGTA is to protect the integrity of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We will continue to work with the IRS Criminal Investigation Division , the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General , the Postal Inspection Service , the Department of Justice , and other law enforcement partners in this effort.
” As part of his guilty plea , Lewis admitted that he created the so-called “ COVID-19 Relief Fund , ” which he purportedly managed and oversaw as president and founder of Lewis Revenue Group LLC .
Lewis promised desperate small business owners “ guaranteed funds ” of between $ 12,500 and $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reservation ” fee of between $ 995 and $ 1,200 .
Lewis falsely claimed that “ the fund has up to $ 250 million available for small businesses ” and provided a link for applicants to “ purchase a reservation now.
” Lewis also created the so-called “ American Relief Fund , ” offering $ 5,000 grants to “ every American affected by COVID-19.
” Lewis promoted these “ relief funds ” through sophisticated marketing and social media campaigns , even using the official trademarks and logos of purported corporate sponsors without their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had or distributed any funds through the “ COVID-19 Relief Fund ” or “ American Relief Fund.
” Between April and May 2020 , Lewis defrauded small business owners of more than $ 100,000 through this scheme .
Lewis also admitted that , in mid-March 2020 as COVID-19-related stay-at-home orders across the United States began , he set up a website called “ www.homekitchengoods.com , ” for the online store , “ Home Kitchen Goods , ” where he claimed to sell pandemic-critical goods such as hand sanitizer , disinfectant wipes , paper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact , however , during the five days between March 20 and March 24 , 2020 , Lewis received over 8,500 orders totaling more than $ 400,000 , but never had or delivered any of the promised goods .
Lewis further admitted that , between April 1 and June 19 , 2020 , he lied to the SBA by fraudulently applying for and obtaining multiple loans and advances under the SBA ’ s EIDL program .
Specifically , Lewis purchased more than 35 “ aged , off-the-shelf ” corporations , and then submitted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grant “ advances ” of up to $ 10,000 through the SBA-EIDL program .
This case was investigated by the USPIS , IRS-CI , SBA-OIG , and TIGTA .
Trial Attorney David A. Stier of the Criminal Division ’ s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith C. Ruggles are prosecuting the case .
If you believe you are a victim in this case please contact the Fraud Section ’ s Victim Witness Unit toll-free at ( 888 ) 549-3945 or email us at [ email protected ] You may also may visit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ updates as the case progresses .

A North Carolina man pleaded guilty today to perpetrating three schemes between March and July 2020 connected to the COVID-19 pandemic, through which he defrauded consumers and the federal government’s relief programs.
Brandon Lewis, 34, of Greensboro, North Carolina, pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging two counts of wire fraud and one count of making false statements to the Small Business Administration (SBA).
“Brandon Lewis today admitted to a wide range of brazen schemes specifically designed to profit illegally from the COVID-19 pandemic by defrauding scores of frightened consumers and small business owners desperate for a financial lifeline,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The department and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively pursue and hold accountable those who seek to illegally exploit the ongoing national emergency for their own personal benefit at the expense of hardworking Americans and businesses.”
“In the midst of a pandemic and as the economy suffered, this defendant lined his pockets by cheating online customers, small businesses, and, ultimately, all taxpayers. Stealing from people seeking basic health and cleaning supplies while under stay at home orders, and from entrepreneurs struggling to keep their businesses afloat, may be the nadir of fraudulent conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew G.T. Martin of the Middle District of North Carolina. “I commend the excellent coordinated efforts of IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Small Business Administration Inspector General, and the Treasury Inspector General. We will aggressively investigate and prosecute anyone who tries to profit by preying on people during this pandemic.”
“This is another example of greed controlling one’s actions. In a time of crisis and vulnerability in our country, Mr. Lewis promised assistance and help, but delivered more heartache and anxiety,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew D. Line of the IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). “I am proud of the way IRS-Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners quickly responded to these selfish criminal acts. We are committed to rooting out those seeking to defraud the hard-working citizens of this country during this pandemic.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will remain vigilant in bringing to justice anyone that seeks to defraud individuals during this pandemic,” said Inspector in Charge Tommy D. Coke of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Atlanta Division. “These schemes highlights the importance of collaboration with our law enforcement partners to investigate and stop those seeking to take advantage of innocent victims.”
“It is unacceptable to defraud small businesses that are struggling during these unprecedented times,” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Kupperbusch of the SBA’s Office of Inspector General (OIG)’s Eastern Region. “Our office will relentlessly pursue fraudsters that use SBA’s programs for greed and personal gain. I want to thank the Justice Department and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.”
“In the midst of this pandemic, anyone who attempts to engage in illegal activity will be aggressively pursued,” said J. Russell George, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). “Our mission at TIGTA is to protect the integrity of the nation’s system of tax administration. We will continue to work with the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General, the Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Justice, and other law enforcement partners in this effort.”
As part of his guilty plea, Lewis admitted that he created the so-called “COVID-19 Relief Fund,” which he purportedly managed and oversaw as president and founder of Lewis Revenue Group LLC. Lewis promised desperate small business owners “guaranteed funds” of between $12,500 and $15,000 in exchange for an upfront “reservation” fee of between $995 and $1,200. Lewis falsely claimed that “the fund has up to $250 million available for small businesses” and provided a link for applicants to “purchase a reservation now.”
Lewis also created the so-called “American Relief Fund,” offering $5,000 grants to “every American affected by COVID-19.” Lewis promoted these “relief funds” through sophisticated marketing and social media campaigns, even using the official trademarks and logos of purported corporate sponsors without their permission. In reality, Lewis never had or distributed any funds through the “COVID-19 Relief Fund” or “American Relief Fund.” Between April and May 2020, Lewis defrauded small business owners of more than $100,000 through this scheme.
Lewis also admitted that, in mid-March 2020 as COVID-19-related stay-at-home orders across the United States began, he set up a website called “www.homekitchengoods.com,” for the online store, “Home Kitchen Goods,” where he claimed to sell pandemic-critical goods such as hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, paper towels, and toilet paper. In fact, however, during the five days between March 20 and March 24, 2020, Lewis received over 8,500 orders totaling more than $400,000, but never had or delivered any of the promised goods.
Lewis further admitted that, between April 1 and June 19, 2020, he lied to the SBA by fraudulently applying for and obtaining multiple loans and advances under the SBA’s EIDL program. Specifically, Lewis purchased more than 35 “aged, off-the-shelf” corporations, and then submitted approximately 68 fraudulent loan applications and non-refundable grant “advances” of up to $10,000 through the SBA-EIDL program.
This case was investigated by the USPIS, IRS-CI, SBA-OIG, and TIGTA. Trial Attorney David A. Stier of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith C. Ruggles are prosecuting the case.
If you believe you are a victim in this case please contact the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness Unit toll-free at (888) 549-3945 or email us at [email protected]. You may also may visit https://www.justice.gov/criminal-vns/case/brandon-lewis for additional information and updates as the case progresses.
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breaking911--2020-08-31--LIVE: President Trump Holds a News Conference

President Donald Trump is scheduled to hold a news briefing at the White House Monday at 4:30 p.m. CT .

President Donald Trump is scheduled to hold a news briefing at the White House Monday at 4:30 p.m. CT.
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breaking911--2020-09-01--Cops Shoot Man Dead In L.A.; Protests Ensue

Protesters were gathering after a police involved-shooting in Los Angeles Monday afternoon .
The scene is in the 1200 block @ @ @ @ @ Local media reports a man was stopped on a bicycle for code violations when he @ @ @ @ @ later caught up with the man who was carrying a bundle of clothes .
Officials @ @ @ @ @ deputy and then dropped the clothes–at which time a handgun fell to the ground .
@ @ @ @ @ a dozen shots at the suspect , whom the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Some witnesses say the suspect was struck in the back—this was not confirmed .
The @ @ @ @ @ and pronounced dead at the scene .
No deputies were injured .
The department said @ @ @ @ @ a fight ensued between the suspect and deputies .
The suspect produced a handgun and @ @ @ @ @ shooting occurred .
The suspect ’ s handgun was recovered .
Video circulating online shows @ @ @ @ @ led up to the shooting .

Protesters were gathering after a police involved-shooting in Los Angeles Monday afternoon. The scene is in the 1200 block of West 109th Place.
Local media reports a man was stopped on a bicycle for code violations when he took off running. Deputies later caught up with the man who was carrying a bundle of clothes. Officials say the suspect punched a deputy and then dropped the clothes–at which time a handgun fell to the ground.
Witnesses say deputies fired over a dozen shots at the suspect, whom the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department says was armed. Some witnesses say the suspect was struck in the back—this was not confirmed.
The suspect was struck by gunfire and pronounced dead at the scene. No deputies were injured.
The department said, During the contact, a fight ensued between the suspect and deputies. The suspect produced a handgun and a deputy-involved “hit” shooting occurred. The suspect’s handgun was recovered.
Video circulating online shows the scene but not what led up to the shooting.
Shooting by police on 109th/Normandie in Los Angeles. Killed with 27 shots. And then they handcuffed him dead. pic.twitter.com/YG20VaqKTI — lovinglynn (@lovelylynn44) September 1, 2020
#BREAKING: A man has been shot and killed by @LASDHQ deputies in the area of West 109th Place and South Budlong Ave. Details about what caused the shooting have not been made available yet. No deputies were injured in the incident. #CBSLA pic.twitter.com/I5RjSexpmS — CBSLA Assignment Desk (@KCBSKCALDesk) August 31, 2020
#LASD says the man was holding clothes and then punched a deputy in the face. They say he dropped the clothes and when he did that a black handgun fell to the ground. It was at that time a deputy-involved shooting happened. @LASDHQ says he was shot several times and died (2/2) https://t.co/opbzor1jUT — Mike Rogers (@MikeRogersTV) September 1, 2020
Los Angeles County Sheriffs killed a Black man…Dijon…on 109th and Budlong and left his body facedown in the dirt.
We need all hands on deck.
Please get here ASAP! — #BlackLivesMatter-LA (@BLMLA) September 1, 2020
DEVELOPING STORY
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breaking911--2020-09-01--University Athletic Officials Slapped With New Charges in College Admissions Scandal

BOSTON – A federal grand jury in the District of Massachusetts returned a second superseding indictment today bringing additional charges against two university athletic officials in the college admissions case .
The second superseding indictment charges Gordon Ernst , the former Georgetown University tennis coach , with three counts of federal programs bribery and three counts of filing false tax returns and charges Jovan Vavic , former water polo coach at the University of Southern California , with conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery .
An arraignment date has not yet been scheduled .
The indictment alleges that in addition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Singer , Ernst also solicited and received bribes from three other prospective Georgetown applicants .
Ernst then failed to report a significant portion of those bribe payments on his federal income tax returns .
The second superseding indictment also alleges that Vavic conspired to commit federal programs bribery by soliciting and accepting bribes to facilitate the admission of students to the University of Southern California .
The new charges are in addition to those brought in an earlier indictment .
Singer previously pleaded guilty and is cooperating with the government ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ administrators and employees charged in the initial indictment in March 2019 , eight have pleaded guilty or agreed to do so .
Defendants Gordon Ernst , Donna Heinel , Jovan Vavic and William Ferguson have pleaded not guilty .
Case information , including the status of each defendant , charging documents and plea agreements are available here : https : //www.justice.gov/usao-ma/investigations-college-admissions-and-testing-bribery-scheme .
The charge of federal programs bribery provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison , three years of supervised release and a fine of $ 250,000 or twice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is greater .
The charge of conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison , three years of supervised release a fine of $ 250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss , whichever is greater .
The charge of filing a false tax return provides for a sentence of up to three years in prison , one year of supervised release and a fine of $ 100,000 .
Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S .
Sentencing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling ; Joseph R. Bonavolonta , Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation , Boston Field Division ; Joleen Simpson , Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service ’ s Criminal Investigations in Boston ; and Mark Deckett , Resident Agent in Charge of the Department of Education , Office of Inspector General made the announcement today .
Assistant U.S .
Attorneys Eric S. Rosen , Justin D. O ’ Connell , Leslie A. Wright , Kristen A. Kearney , Stephen E. Frank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case .

BOSTON – A federal grand jury in the District of Massachusetts returned a second superseding indictment today bringing additional charges against two university athletic officials in the college admissions case.
The second superseding indictment charges Gordon Ernst, the former Georgetown University tennis coach, with three counts of federal programs bribery and three counts of filing false tax returns and charges Jovan Vavic, former water polo coach at the University of Southern California, with conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery. An arraignment date has not yet been scheduled.
The indictment alleges that in addition to accepting bribes from William “Rick” Singer, Ernst also solicited and received bribes from three other prospective Georgetown applicants. Ernst then failed to report a significant portion of those bribe payments on his federal income tax returns. The second superseding indictment also alleges that Vavic conspired to commit federal programs bribery by soliciting and accepting bribes to facilitate the admission of students to the University of Southern California. The new charges are in addition to those brought in an earlier indictment.
Singer previously pleaded guilty and is cooperating with the government’s investigation.
Of the 12 coaches, administrators and employees charged in the initial indictment in March 2019, eight have pleaded guilty or agreed to do so. Defendants Gordon Ernst, Donna Heinel, Jovan Vavic and William Ferguson have pleaded not guilty.
Case information, including the status of each defendant, charging documents and plea agreements are available here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/investigations-college-admissions-and-testing-bribery-scheme.
The charge of federal programs bribery provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of filing a false tax return provides for a sentence of up to three years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of $100,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Joleen Simpson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston; and Mark Deckett, Resident Agent in Charge of the Department of Education, Office of Inspector General made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric S. Rosen, Justin D. O’Connell, Leslie A. Wright, Kristen A. Kearney, Stephen E. Frank and Karin M. Bell of Lelling’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
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breaking911--2020-09-01--Man Previously Released on $0 Bail In California Pleads to Domestic Violence, Sentenced to State Pri

Man Previously Released on $0 Bail In California Pleads to Domestic Violence, Sentenced to State Prison

Porterville , CALIF. – On August 27 , 2020 , at the Porterville South County Justice Center , Paul Bella , 50 , was sentenced to four years and eight months in state prison for a series of crimes , including domestic violence .
On May 25 , 2020 , the Porterville Police Department responded to a local pharmacy where they found a victim screaming and crying with a pair of pliers embedded in her ankle .
The victim told police that she and Bella , her husband , had an argument at their residence minutes before when Bella , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ threw the pliers at her .
The pliers bounced off the ground and lodged in the victim ’ s ankle .
Bella was located soon after and arrested .
Medical personnel with the Kaweah Delta Medical Center were later able to remove the pliers .
At the time of the crime , Bella was out on $ 0 bail for a previous case of possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest that occurred in late April 2020 .
He was also out of custody awaiting sentencing on a previous case of carrying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that occurred in early April 2019 .
In early August 2020 , Bella ultimately pleaded to multiple charges in two separate cases : felony corporal injury to a spouse , felony assault with a deadly weapon , misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance , misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia , and misdemeanor resisting arrest .
The assault and domestic violence charges are enhanced with a special allegation that the crimes were committed while the defendant was out of custody on another felony case .
The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and was investigated by the Porterville Police Department .

Porterville, CALIF. – On August 27, 2020, at the Porterville South County Justice Center, Paul Bella, 50, was sentenced to four years and eight months in state prison for a series of crimes, including domestic violence.
On May 25, 2020, the Porterville Police Department responded to a local pharmacy where they found a victim screaming and crying with a pair of pliers embedded in her ankle. The victim told police that she and Bella, her husband, had an argument at their residence minutes before when Bella, who was working on a bicycle, threw the pliers at her. The pliers bounced off the ground and lodged in the victim’s ankle. Bella was located soon after and arrested. Medical personnel with the Kaweah Delta Medical Center were later able to remove the pliers.
At the time of the crime, Bella was out on $0 bail for a previous case of possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest that occurred in late April 2020. He was also out of custody awaiting sentencing on a previous case of carrying a stabbing weapon, among other charges, that occurred in early April 2019.
In early August 2020, Bella ultimately pleaded to multiple charges in two separate cases: felony corporal injury to a spouse, felony assault with a deadly weapon, misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia, and misdemeanor resisting arrest. The assault and domestic violence charges are enhanced with a special allegation that the crimes were committed while the defendant was out of custody on another felony case.
The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Avi Feinstein of the Porterville Prosecution Division and was investigated by the Porterville Police Department.
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breaking911--2020-09-01--Customs Seizes Ecstasy and Date Rape Drugs in Air Cargo from London

STERLING , Va. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection ( CBP ) officers at Washington Dulles International Airport seized ecstasy and gamma-butyrolactone ( GBL ) in three separate international air cargo shipments on Sunday .
Officers detected anomalies with each shipment and CBP narcotics detector dog Ginna alerted to the ecstasy parcel .
In one parcel , officers discovered nearly 50 grams of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine ( MDMA ) , commonly known as ecstasy , destined to an address in Greenville County , S.C. Officers then discovered 317 grams of GBL in a parcel destined to Middlesex County , Mass.
, and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an address in Madison County , Ala. GBL is a DEA Schedule 1 controlled substance in the United States , meaning that it has a high potential for abuse , no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States , and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision .
According to the DEA , GBL is a chemical analogue of the schedule I controlled substance gamma-hydroxybutyric acid ( GHB ) .
GBL is an odorless , colorless , central nervous system depressant that has addictive properties and potentially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legally as an industrial solvent .
Sexual predators have used GBL as precursor chemical in a date-rape drug , and others abuse GBL as a bodybuilding supplement .
“ This seizure is a perfect example of how Customs and Border Protection officers rely on extraordinary experience , keen intuition and trained canines to intercept dangerous substances that could potentially harm American citizens , ” said Casey Durst , CBP ’ s Director of Field Operations in Baltimore .
“ CBP remains steadfast in our commitment to protecting our nation and our citizens every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ products .
”

STERLING, Va. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at Washington Dulles International Airport seized ecstasy and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) in three separate international air cargo shipments on Sunday.
Officers detected anomalies with each shipment and CBP narcotics detector dog Ginna alerted to the ecstasy parcel.
In one parcel, officers discovered nearly 50 grams of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as ecstasy, destined to an address in Greenville County, S.C.
Officers then discovered 317 grams of GBL in a parcel destined to Middlesex County, Mass., and another 317 grams of GBL destined to an address in Madison County, Ala.
GBL is a DEA Schedule 1 controlled substance in the United States, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.
According to the DEA, GBL is a chemical analogue of the schedule I controlled substance gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB). GBL is an odorless, colorless, central nervous system depressant that has addictive properties and potentially severe health consequences. It is sold legally as an industrial solvent. Sexual predators have used GBL as precursor chemical in a date-rape drug, and others abuse GBL as a bodybuilding supplement.
“This seizure is a perfect example of how Customs and Border Protection officers rely on extraordinary experience, keen intuition and trained canines to intercept dangerous substances that could potentially harm American citizens,” said Casey Durst, CBP’s Director of Field Operations in Baltimore. “CBP remains steadfast in our commitment to protecting our nation and our citizens every day against illicit, illegal and dangerous products.”
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breaking911--2020-09-01--WATCH! Leaked Video Shows Maskless Pelosi at Hair Salon During COVID Lockdown

CALIFORNIA — Video has emerged showing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi at a San Francisco hair salon despite the business being ordered shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The Speaker was reportedly there for a wash and a blow-out on Monday—a day before salons in San Francisco were told they could reopen , but for outdoor hair-styling services only .
Salon owner Erica Kious told Fox News , ‘ I am sharing this because of what everyone in my industry and my city … is going through right now.
’ “ One of the stylists who rents a chair from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kious said .
The stylist sent Kious a text stating “ I ’ ll be there at 2:45 tomorrow .
Pelosi assistant just messaged me to do her hair.
” “ I was like , are you kidding me right now ?
Do I let this happen ?
What do I do ?
” Kious told Fox News .
“ It was a slap in the face that she went in , you know , that she feels that she can just go and get her stuff done while no one else can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t work.
” Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill said in response to the report , “ The Speaker always wears a mask and complies with local COVID requirements .
This business offered for the Speaker to come in on Monday and told her they were allowed by the city to have one customer at a time in the business .
The Speaker complied with the rules as presented to her by this establishment .
”

CALIFORNIA — Video has emerged showing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi at a San Francisco hair salon despite the business being ordered shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Speaker was reportedly there for a wash and a blow-out on Monday—a day before salons in San Francisco were told they could reopen, but for outdoor hair-styling services only.
Salon owner Erica Kious told Fox News, ‘I am sharing this because of what everyone in my industry and my city … is going through right now.’
“One of the stylists who rents a chair from me contacted me Sunday night,” Kious said. The stylist sent Kious a text stating “I’ll be there at 2:45 tomorrow. Pelosi assistant just messaged me to do her hair.”
“I was like, are you kidding me right now? Do I let this happen? What do I do?” Kious told Fox News. “It was a slap in the face that she went in, you know, that she feels that she can just go and get her stuff done while no one else can go in, and I can’t work.”
Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill said in response to the report, “The Speaker always wears a mask and complies with local COVID requirements. This business offered for the Speaker to come in on Monday and told her they were allowed by the city to have one customer at a time in the business. The Speaker complied with the rules as presented to her by this establishment.”
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breaking911--2020-09-01--Fort Hood Commander Removed From Post Amid Investigations Into Several Missing, Dead Soldiers

The shakeup comes after the deaths or disappearances of 15 soldiers on or around the troubled base WASHINGTON — Gen. Michael X. Garrett , commanding general of U.S. Army Forces Command , is directing that Maj. Gen. John B. Richardson IV formally assume duties as deputy commanding general for operations of III Corps and acting senior commander of Fort Hood on Sept. 2 .
This previously-scheduled change in leadership will enable continuity of command as III Corps returns from its role leading the Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve .
Maj. Gen. Richardson previously served as FORSCOM ’ s director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selected in March 2020 by the Department of the Army to serve as the next DCG for III Corps .
Maj. Gen. Scott Efflandt will continue to serve as the deputy commanding general for support and will remain at Fort Hood to assist with the reintegration of III Corps as they return from their mission supporting Operation Inherent Resolve .
With Maj. Gen. Efflandt remaining at Fort Hood , the Army will announce the name of a new commander for the 1st Armored Division , which Efflandt had previously been designated to lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming days .
The Army also announced that Garrett will appoint Gen. John Murray , commanding general of Army Futures Command , and one of the Army ’ s most senior commanders to lead an in-depth investigation into the chain of command actions related to the death of Spc .
Vanessa Guillen .
There are currently several investigations underway at Fort Hood which are tasked with reviewing a wide range of topics and concerns .
Gen. Murray will roll those efforts into a more complete and comprehensive investigation that will delve into all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s investigation , which will be conducted under the provisions of Army Regulation 15-6 , is separate from the Independent Review of Fort Hood , which began in August .

The shakeup comes after the deaths or disappearances of 15 soldiers on or around the troubled base
WASHINGTON — Gen. Michael X. Garrett, commanding general of U.S. Army Forces Command, is directing that Maj. Gen. John B. Richardson IV formally assume duties as deputy commanding general for operations of III Corps and acting senior commander of Fort Hood on Sept. 2. This previously-scheduled change in leadership will enable continuity of command as III Corps returns from its role leading the Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve.
Maj. Gen. Richardson previously served as FORSCOM’s director of operations from 2019-2020, and was selected in March 2020 by the Department of the Army to serve as the next DCG for III Corps.
Maj. Gen. Scott Efflandt will continue to serve as the deputy commanding general for support and will remain at Fort Hood to assist with the reintegration of III Corps as they return from their mission supporting Operation Inherent Resolve.
With Maj. Gen. Efflandt remaining at Fort Hood, the Army will announce the name of a new commander for the 1st Armored Division, which Efflandt had previously been designated to lead. That announcement is expected in the coming days.
The Army also announced that Garrett will appoint Gen. John Murray, commanding general of Army Futures Command, and one of the Army’s most senior commanders to lead an in-depth investigation into the chain of command actions related to the death of Spc. Vanessa Guillen.
There are currently several investigations underway at Fort Hood which are tasked with reviewing a wide range of topics and concerns. Gen. Murray will roll those efforts into a more complete and comprehensive investigation that will delve into all activities and levels of leadership.
Murray’s investigation, which will be conducted under the provisions of Army Regulation 15-6, is separate from the Independent Review of Fort Hood, which began in August.
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breaking911--2020-09-01--Trump Grants $41 MILLION in Emergency Funding To Address Crisis in Wisconsin

Attorney General William P. Barr joined President Trump today in a visit to Kenosha , Wisconsin , where the President announced $ 41 million in grant awards to the state of Wisconsin and local jurisdictions within the state to address a surge in community violence and ongoing civil unrest .
Barr says the awards will support ‘ community-based crime-fighting initiatives , ’ local victim service programs , and the hiring and training of law enforcement officers and prosecutors .
“ Thanks to the efforts of federal law enforcement and the National Guard , working closely with our state and local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been restored from violent agitators who have abused their First Amendment rights to frighten citizens and fan the flames of disorder , ” said Attorney General Barr .
“ As President Trump made abundantly clear today , this lawless behavior will not be allowed to stand and the federal government will provide the necessary resources to help state and local police officers who have worked hard to maintain peace and keep violence at bay .
Today ’ s grant money will help to bolster community-based crime-fighting initiatives and provide much needed support to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Trump and Attorney General Barr toured the city , meeting with local officials and community members to express their concern for those affected by the unrest .
The President issued a stern warning to lawbreakers , saying that there would be no tolerance for violence and anarchy in this or any other city .
The grants announced today , from the Department ’ s Office of Justice Programs and Office of Community Oriented Policing Services , will support proven violence reduction efforts like Project Safe Neighborhoods , which enables federal , state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in collaboration with community organizations .
Grants will also help to hire police officers and prosecutors while allowing them to focus resources on the extraordinary public safety challenges their communities are facing .
Funds will also support local organizations that provide services and support to victims affected by the recent violence and unrest .

Attorney General William P. Barr joined President Trump today in a visit to Kenosha, Wisconsin, where the President announced $41 million in grant awards to the state of Wisconsin and local jurisdictions within the state to address a surge in community violence and ongoing civil unrest. Barr says the awards will support ‘community-based crime-fighting initiatives,’ local victim service programs, and the hiring and training of law enforcement officers and prosecutors.
BREAKING: Trump says federal government to provide: – $1M to Kenosha police
– $4M to support small businesses affected by riots
– $42M to support public safety in Wisconsin pic.twitter.com/qMFVdQJxse — Breaking911 (@Breaking911) September 1, 2020
“Thanks to the efforts of federal law enforcement and the National Guard, working closely with our state and local partners, the streets of Kenosha have been restored from violent agitators who have abused their First Amendment rights to frighten citizens and fan the flames of disorder,” said Attorney General Barr. “As President Trump made abundantly clear today, this lawless behavior will not be allowed to stand and the federal government will provide the necessary resources to help state and local police officers who have worked hard to maintain peace and keep violence at bay. Today’s grant money will help to bolster community-based crime-fighting initiatives and provide much needed support to victims affected by the recent violence.”
In Kenosha with @realDonaldTrump thanking law enforcement and the National Guard for restoring peace after the devastating riots. pic.twitter.com/NQYSDF6Kl7 — Senator Ron Johnson (@SenRonJohnson) September 1, 2020
President Trump and Attorney General Barr toured the city, meeting with local officials and community members to express their concern for those affected by the unrest. The President issued a stern warning to lawbreakers, saying that there would be no tolerance for violence and anarchy in this or any other city.
The grants announced today, from the Department’s Office of Justice Programs and Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, will support proven violence reduction efforts like Project Safe Neighborhoods, which enables federal, state and local agencies to coordinate enforcement activities in collaboration with community organizations. Grants will also help to hire police officers and prosecutors while allowing them to focus resources on the extraordinary public safety challenges their communities are facing. Funds will also support local organizations that provide services and support to victims affected by the recent violence and unrest.
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breaking911--2020-09-01--FBI Investigating After Pilots Report ‘Man In Jetpack’ Flying 3,000 Feet In Air Near Planes At LAX

CALIFORNIA — Federal officials are now involved in the probe of ‘ jet pack ’ sightings over LAX Sunday .
Both an American Airlines pilot and a JetBlue pilot reported the strange sight to the control tower .
American Flight 1997 : “ Tower , American 1997 , we just passed a guy in a jetpack.
” Tower : “ American 1997 , OK , thank you .
Were they off to your left or right side ?
” American Flight 1997 : “ Off the left side , maybe 300 yards or so , about our altitude.
” Skywest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guy passing by us in the jetpack.
” Tower : “ Jet Blue 23 , use caution , a person in a jetpack reported 300 yards south of the LA final at about 3,000 feet , 10 mile final.
” Jet Blue 23 : “ Jet Blue 23 , we heard and we are definitely looking.
” Another pilot chimed in : “ Only in LA.
” The Federal Bureau of Investigation told FOX-LA it “ is aware of the reports by pilots on Sunday and is working to determine what occurred.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

CALIFORNIA — Federal officials are now involved in the probe of ‘jet pack’ sightings over LAX Sunday.
Both an American Airlines pilot and a JetBlue pilot reported the strange sight to the control tower.
American Flight 1997: “Tower, American 1997, we just passed a guy in a jetpack.”
Tower: “American 1997, OK, thank you. Were they off to your left or right side?”
American Flight 1997: “Off the left side, maybe 300 yards or so, about our altitude.”
A Skywest pilot also reported the sighting:
Skywest Flight: “We just saw the guy passing by us in the jetpack.”
Tower: “Jet Blue 23, use caution, a person in a jetpack reported 300 yards south of the LA final at about 3,000 feet, 10 mile final.”
Jet Blue 23: “Jet Blue 23, we heard and we are definitely looking.”
Another pilot chimed in: “Only in LA.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation told FOX-LA it “is aware of the reports by pilots on Sunday and is working to determine what occurred.”
No one was injured in the incident.
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breaking911--2020-09-01--Florida Woman Released From Jail, Then Re-Arrested In Jail Parking Lot & Taken Back To Jail

A 47-year-old Miami woman released from jail on Monday was returned shortly thereafter for vandalizing vehicles in the jail parking lot .
Amparo Bernier was charged with five counts of causing damage to property .
Bernier was initially arrested by the Florida Highway Patrol on Sunday and charged with tampering with evidence .
She was released from the Planation Key jail at approximately 3:30 p.m. Monday .
Bernier was seen in security footage pacing the jail parking lot .
Bernier stated she did not receive all her personal items back upon her release .
Detention Deputies explained she had received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stating the same .
Deputy Jamie Miller responded thereafter when Sheriff ’ s Office staff reported seeing Bernier acting suspiciously around vehicles .
Security footage showed Bernier squatting near vehicles with an unknown object in her hand she had removed from a nearby trash can .
Deputy Miller found three Sheriff ’ s Office staff personal vehicles , one unmarked Sheriff ’ s Office vehicle and one unmarked State Attorney ’ s Office vehicle all had been scratched with a metal object .
In all , approximately $ 7,600 in damage was done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ squared , rusted piece of metal in the trash can with what appeared to be paint transfer from one of the damaged vehicles .
Bernier was taken back to jail .

A 47-year-old Miami woman released from jail on Monday was returned shortly thereafter for vandalizing vehicles in the jail parking lot.
Amparo Bernier was charged with five counts of causing damage to property.
Bernier was initially arrested by the Florida Highway Patrol on Sunday and charged with tampering with evidence. She was released from the Planation Key jail at approximately 3:30 p.m. Monday.
Bernier was seen in security footage pacing the jail parking lot. Bernier stated she did not receive all her personal items back upon her release. Detention Deputies explained she had received all her personal items and signed paperwork stating the same.
Deputy Jamie Miller responded thereafter when Sheriff’s Office staff reported seeing Bernier acting suspiciously around vehicles. Security footage showed Bernier squatting near vehicles with an unknown object in her hand she had removed from a nearby trash can.
Deputy Miller found three Sheriff’s Office staff personal vehicles, one unmarked Sheriff’s Office vehicle and one unmarked State Attorney’s Office vehicle all had been scratched with a metal object. In all, approximately $7,600 in damage was done.
Deputy Miller found a small, squared, rusted piece of metal in the trash can with what appeared to be paint transfer from one of the damaged vehicles.
Bernier was taken back to jail.
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breaking911--2020-09-01--Minneapolis Man Gets 25 Years For Murdering Stranger ‘For No Reason’ In Front Of His Girlfriend

Varnell Allen was sentenced to 306 months in prison after pleading guilty to the sole count of intentional second-degree murder , the Hennepin County Attorney ’ s Office announced Tuesday .
Prosecutors were seeking 367 months in prison .
Allen , 24 , was scheduled to go to trial April 20 , but pleaded guilty to the charge on March 3 , 2020 .
Today , he was sentenced for fatally shooting a man walking down Hennepin Avenue with his girlfriend in September 2019 .
According to the criminal complaint , on Sept. 28 , 2019 , 21-year-old Enzo Herrera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hennepin Avenue near Eighth Street when a silver vehicle pulled up next to them , and Allen , who was driving the vehicle , and his passenger yelled something out the window .
After an exchange of words , Allen stopped the car , got out , and he and the passenger started beating the victim .
During the assault , Allen struck the victim with a gun , dropped it , picked it back up and fired the deadly shot , according to the complaint .
Allen later admitted he did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shoot and kill him anyway .
Allen also admitted he was not acting in self-defense .
Allen was not asked what words were exchanged between him and Herrera Garcia and he did not offer any explanation for the shooting .

Varnell Allen was sentenced to 306 months in prison after pleading guilty to the sole count of intentional second-degree murder, the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday. Prosecutors were seeking 367 months in prison.
Allen, 24, was scheduled to go to trial April 20, but pleaded guilty to the charge on March 3, 2020. Today, he was sentenced for fatally shooting a man walking down Hennepin Avenue with his girlfriend in September 2019.
According to the criminal complaint, on Sept. 28, 2019, 21-year-old Enzo Herrera Garcia was walking with his girlfriend along Hennepin Avenue near Eighth Street when a silver vehicle pulled up next to them, and Allen, who was driving the vehicle, and his passenger yelled something out the window.
After an exchange of words, Allen stopped the car, got out, and he and the passenger started beating the victim. During the assault, Allen struck the victim with a gun, dropped it, picked it back up and fired the deadly shot, according to the complaint.
Allen later admitted he did not know the victim, but intended to shoot and kill him anyway. Allen also admitted he was not acting in self-defense.
Allen was not asked what words were exchanged between him and Herrera Garcia and he did not offer any explanation for the shooting.
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breaking911--2020-09-01--Los Angeles County Rapist Ordered To Stand Trial

A 27-year-old man has been ordered to stand trial for attacking , kidnapping and raping a woman in a parking garage in North Hollywood last year , the Los Angeles County District Attorney ’ s Office announced today .
Allen Dante Villarreal was held to answer on August 28 for one count each of kidnapping to commit rape ; rape by use of any intoxicating or anesthetic substance or any controlled substance ; rape of an unconscious person ; assault with intent to commit sexual assault ; sexual penetration by use of any intoxicating or anesthetic substance or any controlled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unconscious person .
Separately , Villarreal was previously ordered to stand trial in case LA091188 for one count each of forcible rape of a victim under the age of 18 ; forcible oral copulation of a minor victim ; sexual penetration by use of force of minor ; first-degree burglary , person present ; and assault with intent to commit a sexual assault with allegations of inflicting great bodily injury .
Deputy District Attorney Ranna Jahanshahi said a pretrial hearing is scheduled today in Department F for that case also in the Van @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2018 , the defendant approached a 17-year-old girl and soon began following her into the top floor of her building where he allegedly sexually assaulted her in a trash chute room , according to the prosecutor .
On or between March 8 and March 9 , 2019 , a 22-year-old woman was walking to her vehicle when she was allegedly approached by the defendant who entered her car .
He is accused of attacking her and knocking her out , according to evidence presented at the preliminary hearing which concluded last week .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ while she was unconscious and then drove her car , while she was still inside .
He faces a possible maximum penalty of multiple life sentences in state prison if convicted as charged .

A 27-year-old man has been ordered to stand trial for attacking, kidnapping and raping a woman in a parking garage in North Hollywood last year, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced today.
Allen Dante Villarreal was held to answer on August 28 for one count each of kidnapping to commit rape; rape by use of any intoxicating or anesthetic substance or any controlled substance; rape of an unconscious person; assault with intent to commit sexual assault; sexual penetration by use of any intoxicating or anesthetic substance or any controlled substance; and sexual penetration of an unconscious person.
Separately, Villarreal was previously ordered to stand trial in case LA091188 for one count each of forcible rape of a victim under the age of 18; forcible oral copulation of a minor victim; sexual penetration by use of force of minor; first-degree burglary, person present; and assault with intent to commit a sexual assault with allegations of inflicting great bodily injury.
Deputy District Attorney Ranna Jahanshahi said a pretrial hearing is scheduled today in Department F for that case also in the Van Nuys courthouse.
On Aug. 31, 2018, the defendant approached a 17-year-old girl and soon began following her into the top floor of her building where he allegedly sexually assaulted her in a trash chute room, according to the prosecutor.
On or between March 8 and March 9, 2019, a 22-year-old woman was walking to her vehicle when she was allegedly approached by the defendant who entered her car.
He is accused of attacking her and knocking her out, according to evidence presented at the preliminary hearing which concluded last week.
The defendant later allegedly raped the victim while she was unconscious and then drove her car, while she was still inside.
He faces a possible maximum penalty of multiple life sentences in state prison if convicted as charged.
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breaking911--2020-09-02--New Audio Leaks of CNN’s Chris Cuomo Confiding in Michael Cohen About Sex Assault Allegations (VIDEO

New Audio Leaks of CNN’s Chris Cuomo Confiding in Michael Cohen About Sex Assault Allegations (VIDEO)

President Trump ’ s former longtime lawyer Michael Cohen recorded a conversation with CNN anchor Chris Cuomo–and the audio was @ @ @ @ @ Tucker Carlson .
Watch the video report and leave a comment below .

President Trump’s former longtime lawyer Michael Cohen recorded a conversation with CNN anchor Chris Cuomo–and the audio was obtained by Fox News’ Tucker Carlson. Watch the video report and leave a comment below.
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breaking911--2020-09-02--SHOCK VIDEO: Knife-Wielding Florida Woman Killed After Stabbing Officer

A new body cam policy coincides with a video released of a shocking Easter Sunday stabbing .
State Attorney ’ @ @ @ @ @ officers justified .

A new body cam policy coincides with a video released of a shocking Easter Sunday stabbing. State Attorney’s Office ruled actions of officers justified.
RAW VIDEO: Knife-Wielding Woman Fatally Shot After Stabbing Jacksonville Deputy pic.twitter.com/eJJ8Y5BP0W — GrantB911 (@GrantB911) September 2, 2020
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breaking911--2020-09-02--Woman slain, husband arrested; 2 sisters also shot on same block

MINNESOTA — A Bloomington man was charged with murdering his wife and attempting to kill two of his neighbors in a shooting during an evening of violence , according to the Hennepin County Attorney ’ s Office .
Jason M. Mesich , 48 , was charged with second-degree murder in the killing of his wife and two counts of second-degree attempted murder in the shooting of his two neighbors .
He was expected to make his first court appearance Sept. 2 .
At 11 p.m. Aug. 30 , Bloomington police were called to the 8300 block of 15th Ave. S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from gunshots in the couple ’ s detached garage , according to the criminal complaint .
The officers went into their house at 8340 15th Ave. S. looking for possible other victims and heard Mesich in the basement screaming , throwing things and firing shots .
After a standoff that lasted some time , Mesich eventually surrendered .
Police then learned that shortly after he shot his wife , he went next door where the neighbors were putting items in a U-Haul trailer .
He shot a 12-year-old girl in the head and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the legs , the complaint states .
The girl is unconscious and in critical condition and the woman is in serious condition .
From the criminal complaint : Officers responded to the hospital , where they spoke with the family of Victim 2 and Victim 3 .
M.S.
, the mother of Victim 2 and Victim 3 , explained that they had been outside their house in the 8300 block of 15th Avenue , a residence that is located next door to Defendant ’ s home .
M.S .
stated that the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was parked in front of the house .
M.S .
and Victim 2 both stated that a man suddenly walked up to them and began shooting at them , injuring both Victim 2 and Victim 3 , and shooting at and missing other family members , including M.S .
M.S .
stated that with the victims in a car and the UHaul , the family drove directly to the hospital .
Victim 3 is currently in serious condition .
Victim 2 is currently in critical condition and has not regained consciousness .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to remember much of what had happened , but stated that he “ probably ” killed his wife , Victim 1 .
Defendant stated that he and Victim 1 would argue about how he did not think they had sex often enough , and they were in the garage arguing about that on Sunday night .
Defendant stated that he “ probably ” went inside and got a gun .
He stated that Victim 1 was leaning against her car , and swung at him , and he hit her in the collar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he had a gun and “ maybe ” Victim 1 said something like “ just shoot me then.
” Defendant stated , “ I ’ m assuming that I did shoot her , ” and when asked how many times he shot his wife , Defendant said , “ I probably emptied it , ” explaining that he turned the gun right to Victim 1 ’ s face , and stating that if he was going to kill someone , he would want to empty the magazine , saying , “ I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Regarding the neighbors who were shot , Defendant stated that they were not good neighbors , and when asked why 12 year old Victim 2 was shot , he stated that maybe it was the opportunity .
Defendant further stated that he hated all children .
When asked further about shooting the neighbors , Defendant stated , “ I may have spotted them , ” or that possibly they had seen what happened to Victim 1 .
Police recovered numerous guns and hundreds of rounds of ammunition from the house .
A GoFundMe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

MINNESOTA — A Bloomington man was charged with murdering his wife and attempting to kill two of his neighbors in a shooting during an evening of violence, according to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office.
Jason M. Mesich, 48, was charged with second-degree murder in the killing of his wife and two counts of second-degree attempted murder in the shooting of his two neighbors. He was expected to make his first court appearance Sept. 2.
At 11 p.m. Aug. 30, Bloomington police were called to the 8300 block of 15th Ave. S. and found Mesich’s wife dead from gunshots in the couple’s detached garage, according to the criminal complaint. The officers went into their house at 8340 15th Ave. S. looking for possible other victims and heard Mesich in the basement screaming, throwing things and firing shots. After a standoff that lasted some time, Mesich eventually surrendered.
Police then learned that shortly after he shot his wife, he went next door where the neighbors were putting items in a U-Haul trailer. He shot a 12-year-old girl in the head and shot an adult woman several times in the legs, the complaint states. The girl is unconscious and in critical condition and the woman is in serious condition.
From the criminal complaint: Officers responded to the hospital, where they spoke with the family of Victim 2 and Victim 3. M.S., the mother of Victim 2 and Victim 3, explained that they had been outside their house in the 8300 block of 15th Avenue, a residence that is located next door to Defendant’s home. M.S. stated that the family was moving items into a U-Haul which was parked in front of the house. M.S. and Victim 2 both stated that a man suddenly walked up to them and began shooting at them, injuring both Victim 2 and Victim 3, and shooting at and missing other family members, including M.S. M.S. stated that with the victims in a car and the UHaul, the family drove directly to the hospital. Victim 3 is currently in serious condition. Victim 2 is currently in critical condition and has not regained consciousness.
In a post-Miranda statement, Defendant claimed not to remember much of what had happened, but stated that he “probably” killed his wife, Victim 1. Defendant stated that he and Victim 1 would argue about how he did not think they had sex often enough, and they were in the garage arguing about that on Sunday night. Defendant stated that he “probably” went inside and got a gun. He stated that Victim 1 was leaning against her car, and swung at him, and he hit her in the collar bone area with two fists, and he had a gun and “maybe” Victim 1 said something like “just shoot me then.” Defendant stated, “I’m assuming that I did shoot her,” and when asked how many times he shot his wife, Defendant said, “I probably emptied it,” explaining that he turned the gun right to Victim 1’s face, and stating that if he was going to kill someone, he would want to empty the magazine, saying, “I want to make sure she is dead.” Regarding the neighbors who were shot, Defendant stated that they were not good neighbors, and when asked why 12 year old Victim 2 was shot, he stated that maybe it was the opportunity. Defendant further stated that he hated all children. When asked further about shooting the neighbors, Defendant stated, “I may have spotted them,” or that possibly they had seen what happened to Victim 1.
Police recovered numerous guns and hundreds of rounds of ammunition from the house.
A GoFundMe for the victims can be found here.
Criminal Complaint (PDF)
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breaking911--2020-09-02--Glass Jar Candle Thrown At LAPD Sergeant’s Windshield; Suspect Previously Threw Metal Candlestick At

Glass Jar Candle Thrown At LAPD Sergeant’s Windshield; Suspect Previously Threw Metal Candlestick At SWAT Car

On Monday , around 6:50 p.m. , a LAPD police sergeant was exiting a parking lot at the Los Angeles Police Department ’ s Metropolitan Station in the 2700 block of Temple Street .
He was driving an unmarked police SUV .
As the sergeant pulled out of the parking lot on Benton Way , a male suspect threw a glass jar candle at his front windshield .
After the jar hit the windshield , the sergeant stopped and saw the suspect standing in front of a residence .
The suspect fled into the residence and a perimeter was established @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taken into custody and booked for assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Police Officer .
Ayala is being held , without bail , at the Metropolitan Detention Center due to a parole hold .
The sergeant driving the SUV was not injured during this incident .
Major Crimes Division will be handling the investigation .
Ayala is the suspect of an additional incident at the Metropolitan Police Station which occurred on August 20th , 2020 .
During that incident , Ayala threw a metal candlestick at a large Special Weapons and Tactics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caused a dent to the rear of the vehicle .

On Monday, around 6:50 p.m., a LAPD police sergeant was exiting a parking lot at the Los Angeles Police Department’s Metropolitan Station in the 2700 block of Temple Street. He was driving an unmarked police SUV. As the sergeant pulled out of the parking lot on Benton Way, a male suspect threw a glass jar candle at his front windshield. After the jar hit the windshield, the sergeant stopped and saw the suspect standing in front of a residence. The suspect fled into the residence and a perimeter was established.
Elvis Ayala, 38-years-old, was taken into custody and booked for assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Police Officer. Ayala is being held, without bail, at the Metropolitan Detention Center due to a parole hold.
The sergeant driving the SUV was not injured during this incident.
Major Crimes Division will be handling the investigation. Ayala is the suspect of an additional incident at the Metropolitan Police Station which occurred on August 20th, 2020. During that incident, Ayala threw a metal candlestick at a large Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) vehicle. The candlestick caused a dent to the rear of the vehicle.
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breaking911--2020-09-02--EVIL: Father, 23, Strangles 9-Month-Old Daughter To Death During Sexual Assault, Cops Say

TEXAS — On August 24th , around midnight , Harris County Sheriff ’ s Office deputies were dispatched to the @ @ @ @ @ Westpark in reference to an unresponsive 9 month old infant .
Upon their arrival , @ @ @ @ @ Savayah Mason , who was being treated by EMS personnel .
She was transported to @ @ @ @ @ pronounced deceased .
HCSO Homicide investigators responded to the scene and began an investigation into @ @ @ @ @ .
An autopsy conducted at the Harris County Institute of Forensics indicated the child had @ @ @ @ @ due to asphyxiation during the assault .
Investigators interviewed the father of the child , @ @ @ @ @ and determined he was responsible for the child ’ s death .
The Harris County @ @ @ @ @ accepted charges of Capital Murder against Luna for the death of his daughter .
On @ @ @ @ @ County Sheriff ’ s Office , along with several assisting agencies , arrested Luis Luna @ @ @

TEXAS — On August 24th, around midnight, Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the apartment complex located at 15035 Westpark in reference to an unresponsive 9 month old infant.
Upon their arrival, they located 9 month old Savayah Mason, who was being treated by EMS personnel.
She was transported to an area hospital and was pronounced deceased.
HCSO Homicide investigators responded to the scene and began an investigation into the child’s death. An autopsy conducted at the Harris County Institute of Forensics indicated the child had been sexually assaulted and died due to asphyxiation during the assault.
Investigators interviewed the father of the child, Luis Luna,
23, and determined he was responsible for the child’s death.
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office accepted charges of Capital Murder against Luna for the death of his daughter. On August 31st, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, along with several assisting agencies, arrested Luis Luna without incident.
Heartbreaking. Worst type of cases. May this little angel Rest In Peace. Good job by our Investigators and all involved. #HouNews https://t.co/Ba9IBDHxyw — Ed Gonzalez (@SheriffEd_HCSO) August 31, 2020
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breaking911--2020-09-02--NY AG Files Motion To Stop Trump Administration’s Efforts to Undermine U.S. Postal Service

NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James says she has taken action to “ halt the Trump Administration ’ s attempts to dismantle the United States Postal Service ( USPS ) and disrupt operations in an effort to undermine the November presidential election.
” Following a lawsuit she filed last week , Attorney General James today filed a motion for a preliminary injunction , asking the court to quickly stop President Donald Trump , the USPS , and Postmaster General DeJoy from “ continuing down the path of slowing mail operations in lead up to Election Day.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ultimate goal here is to depress turnout and disenfranchise millions of voters , ” said Attorney General James .
“ The president ’ s actions are the same as those used in dictatorships and authoritarian governments , but we won ’ t sit idly by as he tries to suppress democracy and every American ’ s fundamental right to vote .
We are filing this motion to stop the president dead in his tracks and to ensure every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast a ballot come November.
” The attorneys general @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as the city of New York , NY and the city and county of San Francisco , CA all joined Attorney General James in filing this lawsuit and today ’ s motion for a preliminary injunction .
This matter is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Daniela Nogueira , Special Counsel Morenike Fajana , and Chief Counsel for Federal Initiatives Matthew Colangelo — all of the Executive Division ; Assistant Attorney General Lindsay McKenzie and Deputy Bureau Chief Elena Goldstein — both of the Civil Rights Burau ; and Assistant Attorneys General @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Environmental Protection Bureau .
The Civil Rights Bureau and the Environmental Protection Bureau are both part of the Division for Social Justice .
Both the Executive Division and the Division for Social Justice are overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy .

NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James says she has taken action to “halt the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the United States Postal Service (USPS) and disrupt operations in an effort to undermine the November presidential election.” Following a lawsuit she filed last week, Attorney General James today filed a motion for a preliminary injunction, asking the court to quickly stop President Donald Trump, the USPS, and Postmaster General DeJoy from “continuing down the path of slowing mail operations in lead up to Election Day.”
“We know President Trump’s ultimate goal here is to depress turnout and disenfranchise millions of voters,” said Attorney General James. “The president’s actions are the same as those used in dictatorships and authoritarian governments, but we won’t sit idly by as he tries to suppress democracy and every American’s fundamental right to vote. We are filing this motion to stop the president dead in his tracks and to ensure every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast a ballot come November.”
The attorneys general of Hawaii and New Jersey, as well as the city of New York, NY and the city and county of San Francisco, CA all joined Attorney General James in filing this lawsuit and today’s motion for a preliminary injunction.
This matter is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Daniela Nogueira, Special Counsel Morenike Fajana, and Chief Counsel for Federal Initiatives Matthew Colangelo — all of the Executive Division; Assistant Attorney General Lindsay McKenzie and Deputy Bureau Chief Elena Goldstein — both of the Civil Rights Burau; and Assistant Attorneys General Joshua Tallent and Laura Mirman-Heslin — both of the Environmental Protection Bureau. The Civil Rights Bureau and the Environmental Protection Bureau are both part of the Division for Social Justice. Both the Executive Division and the Division for Social Justice are overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.
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breaking911--2020-09-02--Chase Smothermon sentenced to 45 years for abducting, torturing and killing one victim, brutally bea

Chase Smothermon sentenced to 45 years for abducting, torturing and killing one victim, brutally beating a second

ALBUQUERQUE , N.M. – A federal judge sentenced Chase Smothermon , 32 , of Albuquerque , New Mexico , to 45 years in prison for abducting and assaulting two men , one of whom was tortured , killed , and mutilated .
Smothermon suspected the victims of stealing drugs and money from his home .
On Jan. 24 , Smothermon pleaded guilty in federal court in Santa Fe , New Mexico .
An indictment charged Smothermon , and two other residents of Albuquerque , Mariah Ferry , 22 , and Jose Torrez , 48 , with kidnapping , kidnapping resulting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Smothermon , Ferry , Torrez and other co-conspirators plotted to retaliate against two victims they believed had stolen marijuana from Smothermon ’ s home , where he resided with Ferry .
On Aug. 8 , 2017 , Torrez alerted Smothermon that the first victim , identified in records as J.S.
, was present at Torrez ’ s home .
Ferry drove Smothermon to Torrez ’ s home where they brutally beat J.S .
with a baseball bat and the butt of a gun .
Smothermon and his companions then put J.S .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ car and bound his hands , ankles and mouth with tape .
Ferry and Smothermon drove J.S .
to another home , where he died shortly after arriving .
Ferry and Smothermon then mutilated J.S.
’ s body in a shed .
Later the same day , Smothermon contacted the second victim , identified in records as M.T.
, under a ruse that Smothermon wanted to buy marijuana from him .
When M.T .
arrived at Smothermon ’ s home , Smothermon , Ferry and others bound , gagged and assaulted him for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other people took M.T .
to another location where they held him overnight before eventually releasing him .
On Aug. 9 , 2017 , Ferry drove Smothermon and another person to a rural area where they buried J.S.
’ s body in a shallow grave .
KRQE reported : In the motion , prosecutors point to video the couple took of the crime , where Ferry is giggling at times as she uses a hatchet on the body .
They argue she ’ ll appear to the court as a soft-spoken , young-looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ she possesses a darkness that forms the basis of her true history and characteristics.
” The document elaborates on the torture and mutilation , saying the young woman used a hatchet in the murder , then helped carve up the body and sever the victim ’ s genitals while taking pictures and videos of it all .
“ Mr .
Smothermon ’ s guilty plea and lengthy sentencing in this case are an example of how drug trafficking leads to violence , ” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Kyle W. Williamson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closely with its law enforcement partners to investigate drug trafficking and associated violent crime in order to bring to justice those who threaten the safety of our communities.
” Ferry pleaded guilty on Feb. 13 to kidnapping and conspiracy to kidnap .
On June 26 , the court sentenced her to 30 years in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release .
On Feb. 13 , Torres pleaded guilty to conspiracy to kidnap and faces 14 years in prison .

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A federal judge sentenced Chase Smothermon, 32, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, to 45 years in prison for abducting and assaulting two men, one of whom was tortured, killed, and mutilated. Smothermon suspected the victims of stealing drugs and money from his home.
On Jan. 24, Smothermon pleaded guilty in federal court in Santa Fe, New Mexico. An indictment charged Smothermon, and two other residents of Albuquerque, Mariah Ferry, 22, and Jose Torrez, 48, with kidnapping, kidnapping resulting in death, and conspiracy to kidnap.
Smothermon, Ferry, Torrez and other co-conspirators plotted to retaliate against two victims they believed had stolen marijuana from Smothermon’s home, where he resided with Ferry. On Aug. 8, 2017, Torrez alerted Smothermon that the first victim, identified in records as J.S., was present at Torrez’s home. Ferry drove Smothermon to Torrez’s home where they brutally beat J.S. with a baseball bat and the butt of a gun.
Smothermon and his companions then put J.S. in the trunk of Ferry’s car and bound his hands, ankles and mouth with tape. Ferry and Smothermon drove J.S. to another home, where he died shortly after arriving. Ferry and Smothermon then mutilated J.S.’s body in a shed.
Later the same day, Smothermon contacted the second victim, identified in records as M.T., under a ruse that Smothermon wanted to buy marijuana from him. When M.T. arrived at Smothermon’s home, Smothermon, Ferry and others bound, gagged and assaulted him for hours. After several hours, two other people took M.T. to another location where they held him overnight before eventually releasing him. On Aug. 9, 2017, Ferry drove Smothermon and another person to a rural area where they buried J.S.’s body in a shallow grave.
KRQE reported: In the motion, prosecutors point to video the couple took of the crime, where Ferry is giggling at times as she uses a hatchet on the body.
They argue she’ll appear to the court as a soft-spoken, young-looking girl with no criminal record, but “she possesses a darkness that forms the basis of her true history and characteristics.”
The document elaborates on the torture and mutilation, saying the young woman used a hatchet in the murder, then helped carve up the body and sever the victim’s genitals while taking pictures and videos of it all.
“Mr. Smothermon’s guilty plea and lengthy sentencing in this case are an example of how drug trafficking leads to violence,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Kyle W. Williamson. “DEA will continue to work closely with its law enforcement partners to investigate drug trafficking and associated violent crime in order to bring to justice those who threaten the safety of our communities.”
Ferry pleaded guilty on Feb. 13 to kidnapping and conspiracy to kidnap. On June 26, the court sentenced her to 30 years in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. On Feb. 13, Torres pleaded guilty to conspiracy to kidnap and faces 14 years in prison.
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breaking911--2020-09-02--Waukesha, Wisconsin Schools On Lockdown After Reports Of ‘Multiple Incidents’ In The City

WAUKESHA , Wisconsin — Schools in the city of Waukesha were placed on lockdown or ‘ lockout ’ Wednesday after @ @ @ @ @ the area .
The Waukesha Police Department said they were investigating two “ suspicious fires.
@ @ @ @ @ Waukesha said in a statement , “ Please know your children will be in class @ @ @ @ @ , lunch , and other activities will take place indoors .
The district will remain @ @ @ @ @ Police Department and will notify our families when the situation changes.
” Police have not @ @ @ @ @

WAUKESHA, Wisconsin — Schools in the city of Waukesha were placed on lockdown or ‘lockout’ Wednesday after reports of suspicious incidents in the area.
The Waukesha Police Department said they were investigating two “suspicious fires.”
We are currently investigating two suspicious fires. One is located within the city of Waukesha. As a precautionary measure we have placed the schools on a lock out. — WaukeshaPD (@WaukeshaPD) September 2, 2020
The School District of Waukesha said in a statement, “Please know your children will be in class as normal but outside recess, lunch, and other activities will take place indoors. The district will remain in contact with the Waukesha Police Department and will notify our families when the situation changes.”
Police have not released any further information.
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