skynewsus--2020-01-27--Kobe Bryant death: Three bodies found at helicopter crash site

Three bodies have been recovered from the site where a helicopter carrying Kobe Bryant , his teenage daughter and seven others crashed on Sunday .
Emergency workers are continuing to search for other victims , as none of those onboard survived .
The aircraft carrying the basketball legend crashed into a hillside in southern California at about 9.45am on Sunday , and Bryant 's death prompted the NBA to postpone the LA Lakers match against the LA Clippers on Tuesday .
The NBA said the game had been postponed `` out of respect for the Lakers '' , where Bryant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
His 13-year-old daughter Gianna , herself a budding basketball player , also died in the crash , which authorities have said came in conditions that were not suitable for flying .
A police spokesman told the LA Times that the conditions `` did not meet our minimum standards for flying '' , while a pilot who used to fly Bryant said the weather was almost certainly to blame .
`` The likelihood of a catastrophic twin engine failure on that aircraft - it just does n't happen , '' Kurt Deetz told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to allow for other aircraft and circled for about 15 minutes until it got clearance from air traffic controllers to continue .
The controllers mention poor visibility around the Burbank and Van Nuys areas , but the pilot talks to controllers normally before communication suddenly goes dead near the crash site at Calabasas .
An audio recording reveals the pilot was told `` you 're too low for flight following at this time '' seconds before the helicopter disappeared from radar .
It 's understood 'flight following ' is a US aerospace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which the pilot appears to have requested .
Seconds later , the helicopter disappears from radar .
It was travelling at speed - 153 knots ( 176mph ) - when it crashed into the hillside , according to tracking site Flightradar24 .
The Federal Aviation Authority said the aircraft was a Sikorsky S-76 .
Bryant , 41 , often used a helicopter to get to games at the Staples Center - the Los Angeles Lakers ' home arena .
He reportedly found it more comfortable than fitting his 6ft 6in frame into a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it as the `` Mamba Chopper '' after his nickname .
The S-76 has a strong safety record , mainly attributed to its two engines which power the main rotor and tail rotors .
Aerospace giant Lockheed Martin , which makes the helicopter , released a statement saying more than 875 had been delivered globally , with many used for critical missions such as search and rescue and air ambulances .
It said the aircraft had notched up `` more than 7.4 million hours of safe , successful flight '' .
Justin Green @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flew in the Marine Corps , said pilots can become disoriented in poor visibility and lose track of which direction is up .
However , he added that an S-76 pilot would be instrument-rated and therefore should be able to fly `` blind '' - just relying on the read-outs and without visual cues .
Bryant and the others in the chopper were understood to have been heading to a children 's basketball tournament organised by a sport foundation that Bryant set up .
Other victims named so far include Orange Coast College @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wife Keri and daughter Alyssa - who played on the same basketball team as Bryant 's daughter .
The girls ' coach Christina Mauser also died , her husband confirmed .
Debris is spread out over an area the size of a football field and the rugged terrain is expected to complicate recovery efforts .
Gianna was one of four daughters Bryant had with wife Vanessa .
The teenager played basketball in the Los Angeles Lady Mamba team .
His other daughters were Natalia , Bianka and Capri .
Orange Coast College paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 56 , who died with his wife and daughter .
It said : `` John meant so much to not only Orange Coast College , but to baseball .
He truly personified what it means to be a baseball coach .
`` The passion that he put into the game , but more importantly his athletes , was second to none - he treated them like family .
Our deepest condolences go out to the Altobelli family during this time of tragedy . ''
The husband of basketball coach Christine Mauser posted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I are devastated .
`` We lost our beautiful wife and mom today in a helicopter crash .
Please respect our privacy .
Thank you for all the well wishes they mean so much . ''
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Bryant had `` inspired people around the world to pick up a basketball '' .
On Tuesday , the NBA announced that the Lakers ' game against the LA Clippers , scheduled for Tuesday , had been postponed `` out of respect for the Lakers association '' in light of Bryant 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hero from across the worlds of sport , entertainment , politics and beyond have expressed their shock at the tragedy .
Michael Jordan , widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all-time , said in a statement that `` words ca n't describe the pain I 'm feeling '' and that Bryant was like a `` brother '' .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Bryant 's former Lakers teammate , Shaquille O'Neal , tweeted : `` There 's no words @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with this tragedy of losing my niece Gigi & my brother @ kobebryant . ''
The basketball star 's final tweet came on Saturday night , when current Lakers talisman LeBron James overtook him in the all-time scoring ranking during a match in Bryant 's hometown of Philadelphia .
Bryant tweeted : `` Continuing to move the game forward @ KingJames .
Much respect my brother . ''
James has yet to comment publicly on Bryant 's death but was seen in tears as he arrived back at LA airport after the Lakers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beyond basketball has been apparent in the huge number of tributes from outside across the sporting world , as well as politics , music and film .
Lionel Messi , Barack Obama , Tiger Woods , Kanye West and Leonardo DiCaprio are just a few of those who 've paid tribute to the basketball great .
People have also gathered outside the Lakers ' home , the Staples Center , where he created so many memories for Lakers fans .
One wreath outside the arena read : `` Kobe we love you RIP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crowd dabbed tears as others laid flowers and basketball shoes at the wreath .
The tragedy also overshadowed the Grammy Awards , which were held at the Staples Center on Sunday night .
Host Alicia Keys said : `` We 're all feeling crazy sadness right now .
Because earlier today Los Angeles , America and the whole wide world lost a hero . ''
Among his honours , the five-time NBA championship winner claimed 18 NBA All-Star selections and two Olympic gold medals .
Following his retirement in 2016 as the third-leading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retired the shirt numbers he had worn during his career - eight and 24 .

Three bodies have been recovered from the site where a helicopter carrying Kobe Bryant, his teenage daughter and seven others crashed on Sunday.
Emergency workers are continuing to search for other victims, as none of those onboard survived.
The aircraft carrying the basketball legend crashed into a hillside in southern California at about 9.45am on Sunday, and Bryant's death prompted the NBA to postpone the LA Lakers match against the LA Clippers on Tuesday.
Image: Emergency workers have been seen removing bodies from the crash site
Image: Authorities have warned that the recovery and investigation will take time
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 9:55 Career highlights of Lakers legend
The NBA said the game had been postponed "out of respect for the Lakers", where Bryant enjoyed a trophy-laden career spanning two decades.
His 13-year-old daughter Gianna, herself a budding basketball player, also died in the crash, which authorities have said came in conditions that were not suitable for flying.
A police spokesman told the LA Times that the conditions "did not meet our minimum standards for flying", while a pilot who used to fly Bryant said the weather was almost certainly to blame.
"The likelihood of a catastrophic twin engine failure on that aircraft - it just doesn't happen," Kurt Deetz told the paper.
The helicopter was held up to allow for other aircraft and circled for about 15 minutes until it got clearance from air traffic controllers to continue.
The controllers mention poor visibility around the Burbank and Van Nuys areas, but the pilot talks to controllers normally before communication suddenly goes dead near the crash site at Calabasas.
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Image: Bryant pictured with his daughter Gianna, who died in the crash
An audio recording reveals the pilot was told "you're too low for flight following at this time" seconds before the helicopter disappeared from radar.
It's understood 'flight following' is a US aerospace term for monitoring on radar systems, which the pilot appears to have requested.
Seconds later, the helicopter disappears from radar.
It was travelling at speed - 153 knots (176mph) - when it crashed into the hillside, according to tracking site Flightradar24.
Jennifer Homendy, a board member from the National Transportation Safety Board, told reporters at a media briefing that the crash site was a "devastating accident scene".
She also confirmed that there was no black box onboard the helicopter, but that one was not required.
The Federal Aviation Authority said the aircraft was a Sikorsky S-76.
Bryant, 41, often used a helicopter to get to games at the Staples Center - the Los Angeles Lakers' home arena.
He reportedly found it more comfortable than fitting his 6ft 6in frame into a car for several hours and referred to it as the "Mamba Chopper" after his nickname.
Image: The helicopter circled multiple times over Glendale before it crashed near Calabasas. Pic: Flightradar24
The S-76 has a strong safety record, mainly attributed to its two engines which power the main rotor and tail rotors.
Aerospace giant Lockheed Martin, which makes the helicopter, released a statement saying more than 875 had been delivered globally, with many used for critical missions such as search and rescue and air ambulances.
It said the aircraft had notched up "more than 7.4 million hours of safe, successful flight".
Justin Green, an New York aviation lawyer who flew in the Marine Corps, said pilots can become disoriented in poor visibility and lose track of which direction is up.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:25 Emergency crews arrive at Kobe Bryant crash site
However, he added that an S-76 pilot would be instrument-rated and therefore should be able to fly "blind" - just relying on the read-outs and without visual cues.
Bryant and the others in the chopper were understood to have been heading to a children's basketball tournament organised by a sport foundation that Bryant set up.
Other victims named so far include Orange Coast College head baseball coach John Altobelli, his wife Keri and daughter Alyssa - who played on the same basketball team as Bryant's daughter.
The girls' coach Christina Mauser also died, her husband confirmed.
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Debris is spread out over an area the size of a football field and the rugged terrain is expected to complicate recovery efforts.
Gianna was one of four daughters Bryant had with wife Vanessa.
The teenager played basketball in the Los Angeles Lady Mamba team. His other daughters were Natalia, Bianka and Capri.
Orange Coast College paid tribute to baseball coach, John Altobelli, 56, who died with his wife and daughter.
It said: "John meant so much to not only Orange Coast College, but to baseball. He truly personified what it means to be a baseball coach.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
"The passion that he put into the game, but more importantly his athletes, was second to none - he treated them like family. Our deepest condolences go out to the Altobelli family during this time of tragedy."
The husband of basketball coach Christine Mauser posted on Facebook: "My kids and I are devastated.
"We lost our beautiful wife and mom today in a helicopter crash. Please respect our privacy. Thank you for all the well wishes they mean so much."
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Bryant had "inspired people around the world to pick up a basketball".
On Tuesday, the NBA announced that the Lakers' game against the LA Clippers, scheduled for Tuesday, had been postponed "out of respect for the Lakers association" in light of Bryant's death.
Fans of the LA Lakers hero from across the worlds of sport, entertainment, politics and beyond have expressed their shock at the tragedy.
Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all-time, said in a statement that "words can't describe the pain I'm feeling" and that Bryant was like a "brother".
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Bryant's former Lakers teammate, Shaquille O'Neal, tweeted: "There's no words to express the pain Im going through with this tragedy of losing my niece Gigi & my brother @kobebryant."
The basketball star's final tweet came on Saturday night, when current Lakers talisman LeBron James overtook him in the all-time scoring ranking during a match in Bryant's hometown of Philadelphia.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:33 LeBron James in tears over Bryant death
Bryant tweeted: "Continuing to move the game forward @KingJames. Much respect my brother."
James has yet to comment publicly on Bryant's death but was seen in tears as he arrived back at LA airport after the Lakers played in Philadelphia.
Bryant's legend beyond basketball has been apparent in the huge number of tributes from outside across the sporting world, as well as politics, music and film.
Lionel Messi, Barack Obama, Tiger Woods, Kanye West and Leonardo DiCaprio are just a few of those who've paid tribute to the basketball great.
People have also gathered outside the Lakers' home, the Staples Center, where he created so many memories for Lakers fans.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:16 'Unbelievably sad': Tiger on Kobe's death
One wreath outside the arena read: "Kobe we love you RIP."
Some of those in the crowd dabbed tears as others laid flowers and basketball shoes at the wreath.
The tragedy also overshadowed the Grammy Awards, which were held at the Staples Center on Sunday night.
Host Alicia Keys said: "We're all feeling crazy sadness right now. Because earlier today Los Angeles, America and the whole wide world lost a hero."
Image: Fans gathered outside the Staples Center
Among his honours, the five-time NBA championship winner claimed 18 NBA All-Star selections and two Olympic gold medals.
Following his retirement in 2016 as the third-leading scorer in NBA history, the Lakers retired the shirt numbers he had worn during his career - eight and 24.


skynewsus--2020-01-27--Who were the other victims of Kobe Bryant helicopter crash?

Kobe Bryant death : Who were the other victims killed in helicopter crash ?
Kobe Bryant death : Who were the other victims killed in helicopter crash ?
Celebrities and fans have been reacting to the death of NBA star Kobe Bryant 's death after his helicopter crashed .
The victims of the crash that killed Kobe Bryant have yet to be officially named , but their identities are emerging through statements and social media posts by friends and family .
Payton Chester played alongside Bryant 's daughter Gianna on the same basketball team , and was on the aircraft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Riley , posted on Instagram : `` Rest In Peace to the most amazing mother and sister .
I love you Pay Pay and Mom RIP . ''
The principal of Harbor View Elementary School - also in Corona del Mar - posted a tribute to Payton and Sarah .
Todd Schmidt said on Facebook : `` As folks mourn the loss of Kobe Bryant , I want to take a moment to remember two gorgeous human beings who were with him , Sarah and Payton Chester . ''
He said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' at the school when Payton was a pupil , and were `` full of mischief and laughter ... and they had the best kiddos ! ''
Several Southern California media outlets have identified the pilot as Ara Zobayan , citing friends .
John Altobelli , 56 , was head baseball coach for Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa , California .
Known as `` Alto '' , he worked there for 27 years and led the team to more than 700 wins , the college said .
`` The passion that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ importantly his athletes , was second to none - he treated them like family .
Our deepest condolences go out to the Altobelli family during this time of tragedy , '' said a statement .
His daughter , Alyssa , 13 , was on the same basketball team as Bryant 's daughter and they were all travelling to a youth tournament arranged by Bryant 's Mamba Sports Academy .
The family confirmed that Keri Altobelli , Alyssa 's mother , also died in the crash .
The basketball coach worked at Harbor Day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Corona del Mar , south of Los Angeles .
The 38-year-old worked as an assistant coach there for more than 10 years , reported CBS Los Angeles , and she also coached the Lady Mamba team .
Gianna Bryant is said to have once attended the school - which said it was `` devastated '' by the coach 's death .
Her husband , Matt Mauser , who founded Tijuana Dogs , a popular Orange County band , said on Facebook : `` My kids and I are devastated .
We lost our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helicopter crash . ''
The 13-year-old was one of four daughters Bryant had with wife Vanessa .
She was following in her father 's footsteps as a keen basketball player and was part of the Lady Mamba basketball team .
The teenager hoped to play at University of Connecticut and eventually turn professional .
Bryant also coached her middle-school team and made no secret of his pride in his daughter - who he described as `` something else '' .
In a November video on Instagram , she finishes a dribble and scores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ father 's signature shot .
Philadelphia-born Bryant was 41 and regarded as one of the best basketball players ever .
He played for the LA Lakers his whole career and , along with the likes of Shaquille O'Neal and Michael Jordan , was one of several players to have transcended the sport .
Bryant was an eight-time NBA All-Star who won five championships during a 20-year career .
He was the league MVP in 2008 and a two-time NBA scoring champion .
In the overall tally of NBA scorers he is fourth , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been pipped by fellow Lakers superstar LeBron James .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker

The victims of the crash that killed Kobe Bryant have yet to be officially named, but their identities are emerging through statements and social media posts by friends and family.
Sarah and Payton Chester
Payton Chester played alongside Bryant's daughter Gianna on the same basketball team, and was on the aircraft with her mother Sarah.
Image: Riley Chester posted a picture of 'the most amazing mother and sister'. Pic: Instagram/riley.chester
Her brother, Riley, posted on Instagram: "Rest In Peace to the most amazing mother and sister. I love you Pay Pay and Mom RIP."
The principal of Harbor View Elementary School - also in Corona del Mar - posted a tribute to Payton and Sarah.
Todd Schmidt said on Facebook: "As folks mourn the loss of Kobe Bryant, I want to take a moment to remember two gorgeous human beings who were with him, Sarah and Payton Chester."
He said the family had made a "huge impact" at the school when Payton was a pupil, and were "full of mischief and laughter... and they had the best kiddos!"
Ara Zobayan
Image: Ara Zobayan has been named on social media as the pilot
Several Southern California media outlets have identified the pilot as Ara Zobayan, citing friends.
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John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli and Alyssa Altobelli
John Altobelli, 56, was head baseball coach for Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, California.
Known as "Alto", he worked there for 27 years and led the team to more than 700 wins, the college said.
"The passion that he put into the game, but more importantly his athletes, was second to none - he treated them like family. Our deepest condolences go out to the Altobelli family during this time of tragedy," said a statement.
His daughter, Alyssa, 13, was on the same basketball team as Bryant's daughter and they were all travelling to a youth tournament arranged by Bryant's Mamba Sports Academy.
The family confirmed that Keri Altobelli, Alyssa's mother, also died in the crash.
Christina Mauser
The basketball coach worked at Harbor Day School - a private elementary school in Corona del Mar, south of Los Angeles.
Image: Christina Mauser's husband said he was devastated by his wife's death. Pic: Matt Mauser/Facebook
The 38-year-old worked as an assistant coach there for more than 10 years, reported CBS Los Angeles, and she also coached the Lady Mamba team.
Gianna Bryant is said to have once attended the school - which said it was "devastated" by the coach's death.
Her husband, Matt Mauser, who founded Tijuana Dogs, a popular Orange County band, said on Facebook: "My kids and I are devastated. We lost our beautiful wife and mom today in a helicopter crash."
Gianna Bryant
The 13-year-old was one of four daughters Bryant had with wife Vanessa.
Image: Kobe's daughter wanted to be a pro like her father
She was following in her father's footsteps as a keen basketball player and was part of the Lady Mamba basketball team.
The teenager hoped to play at University of Connecticut and eventually turn professional.
Bryant also coached her middle-school team and made no secret of his pride in his daughter - who he described as "something else".
In a November video on Instagram, she finishes a dribble and scores the fadeaway "swish" - her father's signature shot.
Kobe Bryant
Philadelphia-born Bryant was 41 and regarded as one of the best basketball players ever.
Image: A basketball and LA Lakers legend Kobe Bryant
He played for the LA Lakers his whole career and, along with the likes of Shaquille O'Neal and Michael Jordan, was one of several players to have transcended the sport.
Bryant was an eight-time NBA All-Star who won five championships during a 20-year career.
He was the league MVP in 2008 and a two-time NBA scoring champion.
In the overall tally of NBA scorers he is fourth, with 33,643, having only last week been pipped by fellow Lakers superstar LeBron James.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker


skynewsus--2020-01-27--Man charged with killing five of his own children when they were babies

Man charged with killing five of his own children when they were babies Man charged with killing five of his own children when they were babies A man has been charged with killing five of his own children - none of them more than six months old .
Paul Perez , who is already behind bars in California , is accused of killing the infants between 1992 and 2001 .
The remains of one of the siblings , three-month-old Nikko Lee Perez , were discovered by a fisherman in March 2007 , submerged in an irrigation canal northwest of Sacramento @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the baby was `` found in a sealed container and weighed down with heavy objects '' .
No information was discovered to further an investigation at the time - but in October , the infant was identified by DNA comparison .
Officials said : `` It is now known that the baby boy was born on November 8 1996 , in Fresno , California . ''
Once they had the DNA information , investigators discovered that Nikko had siblings .
Police said one of them - Kato Allen Perez - was born in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deceased '' , while three other siblings are believed to have died .
Officials said the investigation is ongoing , but declined to say if Perez had other children or if the victims were born to more than one mother .
District Attorney Jeff Reisig said the investigation had `` uncovered a deeply disturbing , chilling case of infanticide '' .
He added : `` Today we are announcing charges against Paul Perez for the serial murder of five of his own children , all babies . ''
Ed Medrano , from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` allegations we are discussing today are senseless , evil and heartbreaking '' .
Perez was arrested at a state prison days before he was expected to be released on unrelated charges , officials said .

A man has been charged with killing five of his own children - none of them more than six months old.
Paul Perez, who is already behind bars in California, is accused of killing the infants between 1992 and 2001.
The remains of one of the siblings, three-month-old Nikko Lee Perez, were discovered by a fisherman in March 2007, submerged in an irrigation canal northwest of Sacramento.
Yolo County Sheriff's Office said the baby was "found in a sealed container and weighed down with heavy objects".
No information was discovered to further an investigation at the time, but in October, the infant was identified by DNA comparison.
Officials said: "It is now known that the baby boy was born on November 8 1996, in Fresno, California."
Once they had the DNA information, investigators discovered that Nikko had siblings.
Police said one of them, Kato Allen Perez, was born in 1992 and is "known to be deceased", while three other siblings are believed to have died.
Officials said the investigation is ongoing, but declined to say if Perez had other children or if the victims were born to more than one mother.
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District Attorney Jeff Reisig said the investigation had "uncovered a deeply disturbing, chilling case of infanticide".
He added: "Today we are announcing charges against Paul Perez for the serial murder of five of his own children, all babies."
Ed Medrano, from the California Department of Justice, said the "allegations we are discussing today are senseless, evil and heartbreaking".
Perez was arrested at a state prison days before he was expected to be released on unrelated charges, officials said.


skynewsus--2020-01-27--'Zero co-operation' from Andrew during Epstein inquiry, prosecutor says

'Zero co-operation ' from Andrew during Epstein inquiry , prosecutor says 'Zero co-operation ' from Andrew during Epstein inquiry , prosecutor says Prince Andrew has been accused of offering 'zero ' cooperation Prince Andrew has provided `` zero co-operation '' with the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking investigation , a US prosecutor has said .
Geoffrey Berman , Manhattan 's top federal prosecutor , said his team - as well as the FBI - had contacted the prince 's lawyers and asked to interview him .
`` To date , Prince Andrew has provided zero co-operation , '' Mr Berman said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York mansion .
During a BBC Newsnight interview last year Prince Andrew suggested he would willingly co-operate with an investigation .
Virginia Giuffre , who claims she had several sexual encounters with the prince when she was 17 , said : `` Prince Andrew 's continued refusal to cooperate with authorities after freely acknowledging that he would be prepared to answer inquiries raises even more questions about the role he played in the international sex trafficking ring Jeffrey Epstein and others operated .
`` Prince Andrew should take most seriously the deeply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one is above the law . ''
Last year , the prince announced he was withdrawing from royal duties amid renewed attention of his friendship with Epstein , who was a convicted paedophile , after his disastrous interview about the friendship .
Both Andrew and Epstein 's former girlfriend , Ghislaine Maxwell have denied any knowledge that Epstein was sexually abusing teenage girls .
During the interview , Andrew insisted he was at a Pizza Express in Woking with his children on the night Ms Giuffre says they were together in London .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ failing to express sympathy for victims of Epstein , who killed himself in his jail cell last summer as he awaited trial accused of trafficking girls for sex .
Epstein had already served time in prison in 2008 for prostituting underage girls .
Andrew stayed at his house two years later , telling Newsnight it had been `` a convenient place to stay '' and thought it was `` the honourable and right thing to do '' after visiting him to end their friendship .
US attorney general William Barr has vowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who may have helped Epstein .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Berman did not discuss further details about the case during Monday 's news conference , but reiterated the case did n't end with his death .
He said : `` Jeffrey Epstein could n't have done what he did without the assistance of others , and I can assure you that the investigation is moving forward . ''
Meanwhile , two guards who were supposed to be monitoring Epstein @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been charged with falsifying the prison 's log books to indicate they were performing checks on prisoners , when they were in fact sleeping or surfing the internet .
Sky News understands the issue is being dealt with by The Duke of York 's legal team , and Buckingham Palace will not be commenting further .

Prince Andrew has provided "zero co-operation" with the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking investigation, a US prosecutor has said.
Geoffrey Berman, Manhattan's top federal prosecutor, said his team - as well as the FBI - had contacted the prince's lawyers and asked to interview him.
"To date, Prince Andrew has provided zero co-operation," Mr Berman said at a news conference outside Epstein's New York mansion.
During a BBC Newsnight interview last year Prince Andrew suggested he would willingly co-operate with an investigation.
Virginia Giuffre, who claims she had several sexual encounters with the prince when she was 17, said: "Prince Andrew's continued refusal to co-operate with authorities after freely acknowledging that he would be prepared to answer inquiries raises even more questions about the role he played in the international sex trafficking ring Jeffrey Epstein and others operated.
"Prince Andrew should take most seriously the deeply held belief in this country that no one is above the law."
Last year, the prince announced he was withdrawing from royal duties amid renewed attention of his friendship with Epstein, who was a convicted paedophile, after his disastrous interview about the friendship.
Image: An image appearing to show Prince Andrew and a 17-year-old Virginia Roberts at Ghislaine Maxwell's house in London in March 2001. Pic: Rex/Shutterstock
Both Andrew and Epstein's former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, have denied any knowledge that Epstein was sexually abusing teenage girls.
During the interview, Andrew insisted he was at a Pizza Express in Woking with his children on the night Ms Giuffre says they were together in London.
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The Duke of York was criticised for failing to express sympathy for victims of Epstein, who killed himself in his jail cell last summer as he awaited trial accused of trafficking girls for sex.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:02 Virginia Roberts Giuffre hits out at duke
Epstein had already served time in prison in 2008 for prostituting underage girls.
Andrew stayed at his house two years later, telling Newsnight it had been "a convenient place to stay" and thought it was "the honourable and right thing to do" after visiting him to end their friendship.
US attorney general William Barr has vowed to aggressively investigate and bring charges against anyone who may have helped Epstein.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Berman did not discuss further details about the case during Monday's news conference, but reiterated the case didn't end with his death.
He said: "Jeffrey Epstein couldn't have done what he did without the assistance of others, and I can assure you that the investigation is moving forward."
Meanwhile, two guards who were supposed to be monitoring Epstein the night he was found dead have been charged with falsifying the prison's log books to indicate they were performing checks on prisoners, when they were in fact sleeping or surfing the internet.
Sky News understands the issue is being dealt with by The Duke of York's legal team, and Buckingham Palace will not be commenting further.


skynewsus--2020-01-27--'I'm being raped': Weinstein accuser details alleged assault

Harvey Weinstein `` lunged '' at a production assistant and forced oral sex on her despite her repeatedly saying no , his rape trial has heard .
Mimi Haleyi - one of two women whose accusations are at the heart of the hearing - said Weinstein invited her to his New York home in 2006 when she was in her 20s .
`` At some point , fairly soon into meeting him there , he kind of came towards me and lunged at me , '' she said .
`` I got up from the sofa and said , 'Oh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' '' Ms Haleyi said she `` did reject him , but he insisted '' , adding : `` Every time I tried to get off the bed , he would push me back and hold me down . ''
The 42-year-old , who was born in Finland and raised in Sweden , told the court she thought `` I 'm being raped '' , and wondered what options she had .
`` If I scream rape , will someone hear me ? ''
she said .
`` I could n't get away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get away . ''
`` I checked out and decided to endure it .
That was the safest thing I could do . ''
Weinstein , 67 , is charged with forcibly performing oral sex on Ms Haleyi and raping another woman , Jessica Mann , in a Manhattan hotel room in 2013 .
Haleyi also described a second encounter a few weeks after the alleged assault in a Tribeca hotel room where she said she went numb as he took her hand , pulled her towards the bed and forced intercourse with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call the police because she was working in the US on a tourist visa and was scared of Weinstein 's power .
`` Obviously , Mr Weinstein has a lot more power and resources and connections and so forth , '' she told jurors .
Ms Haleyi said she blamed herself for that encounter , over which Weinstein is not criminally charged .
Weinstein was jotting notes in a thick yellow notebook through most of Haleyi 's account , but looked at her and shook his head when she described the second alleged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ producer 's lawyers , messages from his accusers will show they maintained warm relations with him after the alleged attacks .
Last week , Sopranos actress Annabella Sciorra testified that Weinstein violently raped her in her Manhattan apartment in the early 1990s .
Despite Sciorra 's allegation being too old to support a separate rape charge against Weinstein , prosecutors hope it will help show he is a serial sexual predator .
More than 80 women have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct since 2017 .
The defence insists his accusers reframed consensual encounters @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Harvey Weinstein "lunged" at a production assistant and forced oral sex on her despite her repeatedly saying no, his rape trial has heard.
Mimi Haleyi - one of two women whose accusations are at the heart of the hearing - said Weinstein invited her to his New York home in 2006 when she was in her 20s.
"At some point, fairly soon into meeting him there, he kind of came towards me and lunged at me," she said.
Image: Ms Haleyi says she 'checked out and decided to endure it'
"I got up from the sofa and said, 'Oh, no, no, no.'"
Ms Haleyi said she "did reject him, but he insisted", adding: "Every time I tried to get off the bed, he would push me back and hold me down."
The 42-year-old, who was born in Finland and raised in Sweden, told the court she thought "I'm being raped", and wondered what options she had.
"If I scream rape, will someone hear me?" she said. "I couldn't get away from him at all, let alone get away."
"I checked out and decided to endure it. That was the safest thing I could do."
Weinstein, 67, is charged with forcibly performing oral sex on Ms Haleyi.
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Haleyi also described a second encounter a few weeks after the alleged assault in a Tribeca hotel room where she said she went numb as he took her hand, pulled her towards the bed and forced intercourse with her.
She said she didn't call the police because she was working in the US on a tourist visa and was scared of Weinstein's power.
"Obviously, Mr Weinstein has a lot more power and resources and connections and so forth," she told jurors.
"I didn't think I'd stand a chance."
Image: Harvey Weinstein insists any sexual encounters were consensual
Ms Haleyi said she blamed herself for that encounter, over which Weinstein is not criminally charged.
Weinstein was jotting notes in a thick yellow notebook through most of Haleyi's account, but looked at her and shook his head when she described the second alleged assault.
According to the former film producer's lawyers, messages from his accusers will show they maintained warm relations with him after the alleged attacks.
Last week, Sopranos actress Annabella Sciorra testified that Weinstein violently raped her in her Manhattan apartment in the early 1990s.
Despite Sciorra's allegation being too old to support a separate rape charge against Weinstein, prosecutors hope it will help show he is a serial sexual predator.
More than 80 women have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct since 2017.
The defence insists his accusers reframed consensual encounters as nonconsensual after they had happened.
Weinstein insists any sexual encounters were consensual.


skynewsus--2020-01-27--US refusal to extradite Harry Dunn suspect is 'denial of justice' - PM

Anne Sacoolas : US refusal to extradite Harry Dunn suspect is a 'denial of justice ' , PM says Anne Sacoolas : US refusal to extradite Harry Dunn suspect is a 'denial of justice ' , PM says Boris Johnson has backed calls for Anne Sacoolas to return to the UK to face charges over the death of Harry Dunn America 's refusal to extradite the suspect in Harry Dunn 's death amounts to a `` denial of justice '' , Boris Johnson has said .
The prime minister has joined Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and Home Secretary Priti Patel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the request for Anne Sacoolas to return to the UK .
On the day Mr Dunn 's parents had a `` very honest '' and `` positive '' meeting with Mr Raab , Mr Johnson 's spokesman said : `` We believe that this is a denial of justice and the individual concerned should return to the UK . ''
The PM 's comments were welcomed by Harry 's mother Charlotte Charles , who said the prime minister should `` use his power '' to pressure Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UK .
She said : `` The fact that he has come out and said that is obviously a good thing but we hope that he can follow this up with actions now .
`` He needs to use his power , because he 's the only person with the power to tell Trump and Pompeo that she needs to come back .
`` It feels good that he 's on the same page as us and this is certainly a step in the right direction . ''
Harry , 19 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car while riding his motorcycle near RAF Croughton in Northamptonshire on 27 August 2019 .
Sacoolas , 42 , was charged with causing his death by dangerous driving in December .
The wife of a US intelligence official based at RAF Croughton , Sacoolas claimed diplomatic immunity after the crash .
Mr Pompeo rejected an extradition request by the UK government for Sacoolas on Thursday .
Asked what her message to the prime minister would be , Mrs Charles said : `` Make the country proud of you .
There are a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessarily have faith in this government and this is a chance for him to restore a bit of that faith .
`` It 's certainly another step forward but until I see action , they are not empty words , but they are words that need action behind them to show us that they are 100 % going to stand up for us . ''
Mrs Charles also said that she and her husband Tim Dunn `` could see his anger '' regarding America 's decision to turn down the extradition request - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ question they asked him .
A Downing Street spokesman said Mr Johnson `` reiterated the need '' for Sacoolas to return to the UK when he spoke to Donald Trump on the phone last Friday .
Mr Pompeo is set to meet Mr Raab on Wednesday .

America's refusal to extradite the suspect in Harry Dunn's death amounts to a "denial of justice", Boris Johnson has said.
The prime minister has joined Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and Home Secretary Priti Patel in criticising Washington's decision to reject the request for Anne Sacoolas to return to the UK.
On the day Mr Dunn's parents had a "very honest" and "positive" meeting with Mr Raab, Mr Johnson's spokesman said: "We believe that this is a denial of justice and the individual concerned should return to the UK."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:48 'Our priority is justice for Harry'
The PM's comments were welcomed by Harry's mother Charlotte Charles, who said the prime minister should "use his power" to pressure Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to send the suspect back to the UK.
She said: "The fact that he has come out and said that is obviously a good thing but we hope that he can follow this up with actions now.
"He needs to use his power, because he's the only person with the power to tell Trump and Pompeo that she needs to come back.
"It feels good that he's on the same page as us and this is certainly a step in the right direction."
Harry, 19, died in a head-on crash with a car while riding his motorcycle near RAF Croughton in Northamptonshire on 27 August 2019.
Sacoolas, 42, was charged with causing his death by dangerous driving in December.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:20 Near miss close to Harry Dunn crash site
The wife of a US intelligence official based at RAF Croughton, Sacoolas claimed diplomatic immunity after the crash.
Mr Pompeo rejected an extradition request by the UK government for Sacoolas on Thursday.
Asked what her message to the prime minister would be, Mrs Charles said: "Make the country proud of you. There are a lot of people out there who don't necessarily have faith in this government and this is a chance for him to restore a bit of that faith.
"It's certainly another step forward but until I see action, they are not empty words, but they are words that need action behind them to show us that they are 100% going to stand up for us."
Image: Harry Dunn's parents, Tim Dunn and Charlotte Charles
Mrs Charles also said that she and her husband Tim Dunn "could see his anger" regarding America's decision to turn down the extradition request - adding that Mr Raab had answered every question they asked him.
A Downing Street spokesman said Mr Johnson "reiterated the need" for Sacoolas to return to the UK when he spoke to Donald Trump on the phone last Friday.
Mr Pompeo is set to meet Mr Raab on Wednesday.


skynewsus--2020-01-28--Kobe Bryant death: Recovery of bodies from crash site 'very difficult'

Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna died in the crash on Sunday The recovery of bodies from the scene of a helicopter crash that killed basketball great Kobe Bryant , his daughter Gianna and seven other people is proving `` very difficult '' , investigators have said .
Los Angeles County sheriff Alex Villanueva said the `` rugged terrain '' of the hillside crash site meant it would take some time for all of the victims ' bodies to be recovered and officially identified .
Nine people on board the helicopter - including Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna - died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 40 miles outside Los Angeles , on Sunday .
Mr Villanueva said : `` The coroner ... started recovering human remains last night and they 're continuing ( that process ) for the next several days .
`` It 's rugged terrain and it 's a very steep hill .
In fact , they had to bulldoze a road just to get a normal-size vehicle to the location , so it is very difficult . ''
Investigators from LA County coroner 's office said they had recovered the first three bodies from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remains .
Former LA Lakers star Bryant - considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time - and Gianna were on their way to a girls ' basketball tournament at a sports academy , where he was to have coached his daughter 's team that day .
The victims of the crash also included Orange Coast College baseball coach John Altobelli , his wife Keri and daughter Alyssa , who played on the same basketball team as Gianna .
The girls ' coach Christina Mauser also died , her husband confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Transportation Safety Board ( NTSB ) , appealed to the public to come forward with any photographs that might help document local weather conditions at the time of the crash .
But she told reporters that weather was just one factor in the investigation into the crash .
`` We take a broad look at everything in an investigation - man , machine and the environment .
And weather is just a small portion of that , '' Ms Homendy said .
She described how bits of the aircraft - a section of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tail , a rotor and other debris - were strewn around an impact crater where the helicopter slammed into a tall grassy slope .
`` It was a pretty devastating accident scene , '' she said .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Both the Los Angeles Police Department and county sheriff 's department had grounded their own helicopters at the time that Bryant 's aircraft crashed , and it had received a safety warning moments before the deadly incident .
An @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zobayan , was told `` you 're too low for flight following at this time '' seconds before the helicopter disappeared from radar .
It is understood that the pilot had requested `` flight following '' , which is a US aerospace term for radar monitoring .
Mr Zobayan has been described as an `` experienced pilot '' who had 8,200 hours of flight time under his belt , and had been climbing to avoid a cloud layer before the chopper crashed .
The helicopter - identified by the Federal Aviation Authority as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 153 knots ( 176mph ) when it crashed , according to tracking site Flightradar24 .
Tributes continued to pour in from the sporting world and beyond following the crash , as the NBA called off the Los Angeles Lakers ' match against the LA Clippers on Tuesday .
Basketball star LeBron James , who plays for the LA Lakers , broke his silence over Bryant 's death on Tuesday , saying he was `` heartbroken '' and he had cried every time he had attempted to pen a tribute to his friend .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'm not ready but here I go .
Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you , niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had !
`` I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA .
Did n't think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we 'd have . ''
He added : `` I 'm heartbroken and devastated my brother !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids .
I promise you I 'll continue your legacy man !
You mean so much to us all here especially # LakerNation . ''
On Monday night , the Empire State Building in New York was lit up purple and gold - the colours of the LA Lakers - to honour Bryant .
The 41-year-old , who spent his entire playing career with the Lakers , was a five-time NBA championship winner with 18 NBA All-Star selections and two Olympic gold medals .
Following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scorer in NBA history , the Lakers retired the shirt numbers he had worn during his career - eight and 24 .

All nine bodies have been recovered from the scene of the helicopter crash that killed basketball legend Kobe Bryant.
Authorities in Los Angeles said the pilot and eight passengers had all been retrieved after a "very difficult" operation, which was hindered by the "rugged terrain" of the hillside where the chopper went down on Sunday.
LA Lakers icon Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna were among those aboard the doomed aircraft, along with the pilot and six other passengers.
Image: Bryant pictured with his daughter Gianna in Las Vegas in July last year
LA County sheriff Alex Villanueva had warned earlier on Tuesday that it could take "several days" to recover remains from the crash site in Calabasas, but the local coroner confirmed that all the victims have now been retrieved.
Three bodies were found on Monday, with further searches securing the other six, and the coroner has said that Bryant's body has been identified via fingerprints.
Others killed included Orange Coast College baseball coach John Altobelli, his wife Keri and daughter Alyssa, who played on the same basketball team as Gianna.
The girls' coach Christina Mauser also died, her husband confirmed.
Bryant - considered one of the greatest NBA stars of all time - and Gianna were on their way to a girls' basketball tournament at a sports academy, where he was to have coached his daughter's team that day.
The chopper went down amid heavy cloud and fog that had grounded police helicopters in the area.
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Image: Authorities say the helicopter came down in a remote field at around 10am (local time) on Sunday
Jennifer Homendy, from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), has appealed to the public to come forward with any photographs that might help document local weather conditions at the time of the crash.
But she told reporters that weather was just one factor in the investigation into the crash.
"We take a broad look at everything in an investigation - man, machine and the environment," she said.
"And weather is just a small portion of that."
She described how bits of the aircraft - a section of the fuselage, a piece of the tail, a rotor and other debris - were strewn around an impact crater where the helicopter slammed into a tall grassy slope.
"It was a pretty devastating accident scene," she added.
The helicopter carrying Bryant, 41, had received a safety warning moments before the fatal crash.
An audio recording revealed the pilot, Ara Zobayan, was told "you're too low for flight following at this time" seconds before the helicopter disappeared from radar.
It is understood that the pilot had requested "flight following", which is a US aerospace term for radar monitoring.
Image: Tributes have been left outside the Staples Center in Los Angeles, where the LA Lakers play
Mr Zobayan has been described as an "experienced pilot" who had 8,200 hours of flight time under his belt, and had been climbing to avoid a cloud layer before the chopper crashed.
The helicopter - identified by the Federal Aviation Authority as a Sikorsky S-76 - was travelling at 153 knots (176mph) when it crashed, according to tracking site Flightradar24.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Tributes have continued to pour in from the sporting world and beyond following the crash, as the NBA called off the Lakers' match against the LA Clippers on Tuesday.
Basketball star LeBron James, who plays for the LA Lakers, broke his silence over Bryant's death on Tuesday, saying he was "heartbroken" and he had cried every time he had attempted to pen a tribute to his friend.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:14 Celebrities and fans have been reacting to the death of NBA star Kobe Bryant's death after his helicopter crashed.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:28 De Niro: 'No words' for Kobe Bryant death
James said on Instagram: "I'm not ready but here I go. Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had!
"I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA. Didn't think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we'd have."
He added: "I'm heartbroken and devastated my brother!! Man I love you big bro. My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids. I promise you I'll continue your legacy man! You mean so much to us all here especially #LakerNation."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Last radio communications of Kobe helicopter
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On Monday night, the Empire State Building in New York was lit up purple and gold - the colours of the LA Lakers - to honour Bryant.
The 41-year-old, who spent his entire playing career with the Lakers, was a five-time NBA championship winner with 18 NBA All-Star selections and two Olympic gold medals.
Following his retirement in 2016 as the third-leading scorer in NBA history, the Lakers retired the shirt numbers he had worn during his career - eight and 24.


skynewsus--2020-01-28--'Heartbroken' LeBron James: I'll continue Kobe Bryant's legacy

LeBron James ( right ) and Kobe Bryant are considered among the greatest basketball players of all time LA Lakers star LeBron James has penned an emotional tribute to Kobe Bryant as he promised to continue the basketball great 's `` legacy '' .
James , who joined the Lakers in 2018 after an already glittering basketball career , said he was `` heartbroken '' by Bryant 's death and revealed he had cried every time he tried to write a tribute to his `` brother '' .
Former LA Lakers player Bryant - considered one of the greatest basketball @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13-year-old daughter Gianna died with seven other people in a helicopter crash in southern California on Sunday .
In a post on Instagram , James said : `` I 'm not ready but here I go .
Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you , niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had !
`` I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA .
`` Did n't think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that would be the last conversation we 'd have . ''
He added : `` I 'm heartbroken and devastated my brother !
!
Man I love you big bro .
`` My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids .
I promise you I 'll continue your legacy man !
`` You mean so much to us all here especially .
`` It 's my responsibility to put this s*** on my back and keep it going !
!
`` Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` There 's so much more I want to say but just ca n't right now because I ca n't get through it !
`` Until we meet again my brother !
! ''
James signed off his Instagram post with the hashtags # Mamba4Life - a reference to Bryant 's nickname `` Black Mamba '' - and # Gigi4Life .
Tributes continued to pour in from the sporting world and beyond following Bryant 's death as thousands of people gathered to pay tribute at a vigil outside the Staples Centre in Los @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Oscar-winning actor Jack Nicholson , a long-time fan of the LA Lakers , gave a rare interview to honour Bryant .
`` My reaction is the same as almost all of LA , '' Nicholson told CBS Los Angeles .
`` Where we think everything 's solid , there 's a big hole in the wall .
I was used to seeing and talking to Kobe that.. it kills you .
It 's just a terrible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Niro said the loss of Bryant , his daughter Gianna and the seven other helicopter crash victims was `` beyond horrible '' .
`` You just ca n't imagine something so horrible happening to them , '' he said .
`` It 's just , it 's beyond , beyond - there 's no words for it . ''
Jimmy Kimmel recorded the latest episode of his talk show in Los Angeles without a studio audience to honour Bryant , saying the helicopter crash was `` a punch in the gut for many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DeGeneres broke down in tears during the opening monologue on her talk show as she paid tribute to Bryant and urged her viewers to `` celebrate life '' .
On Monday night , the Empire State Building in New York was lit up purple and gold - the colours of the LA Lakers - to honour Bryant .
Tributes were also paid in Italy where he spent some of his earliest years and learnt the language while his father played pro basketball in Rieti , about 50 miles from Rome .
Basketball team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ young Kobe on its Twitter account , with the caption : `` You made us dream .
`` We are proud to have been the first to see you take to the court .
We will never forget Kobe . ''
The NBA called off the Lakers ' match against the LA Clippers on Tuesday in the wake of Bryant 's death .

LA Lakers star LeBron James has penned an emotional tribute to Kobe Bryant as he promised to continue the basketball great's "legacy".
James, who joined the Lakers in 2018 after an already glittering basketball career, said he was "heartbroken" by Bryant's death and revealed he had cried every time he tried to write a tribute to his "brother".
Former LA Lakers player Bryant - considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time - and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna died with seven other people in a helicopter crash in southern California on Sunday.
In a post on Instagram, James said: "I'm not ready but here I go. Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had!
"I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA.
"Didn't think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we'd have."
He added: "I'm heartbroken and devastated my brother!! Man I love you big bro.
Image: Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna died in a helicopter crash on Sunday
"My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids. I promise you I'll continue your legacy man!
"You mean so much to us all here especially.
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"It's my responsibility to put this s*** on my back and keep it going!!
"Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over me! I got US here!
Image: Kobe Bryant and LeBron James played on the US team at the 2008 Olympics
"There's so much more I want to say but just can't right now because I can't get through it!
"Until we meet again my brother!!"
James signed off his Instagram post with the hashtags #Mamba4Life - a reference to Bryant's nickname "Black Mamba" - and #Gigi4Life.
Tributes continued to pour in from the sporting world and beyond following Bryant's death as thousands of people gathered to pay tribute at a vigil outside the Staples Centre in Los Angeles, where the Lakers play.
Image: Tributes have been left outside the Staples Center in Los Angeles, where the LA Lakers play
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Oscar-winning actor Jack Nicholson, a long-time fan of the LA Lakers, gave a rare interview to honour Bryant.
"My reaction is the same as almost all of LA," Nicholson told CBS Los Angeles.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:14 Fans and celebs react to Kobe death
"Where we think everything's solid, there's a big hole in the wall. I was used to seeing and talking to Kobe that.. it kills you. It's just a terrible event."
Fellow Oscar-winner Robert De Niro said the loss of Bryant, his daughter Gianna and the seven other helicopter crash victims was "beyond horrible".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:28 De Niro: 'No words' for Kobe Bryant death
"You just can't imagine something so horrible happening to them," he said.
"It's just, it's beyond, beyond - there's no words for it."
Jimmy Kimmel recorded the latest episode of his talk show in Los Angeles without a studio audience to honour Bryant, saying the helicopter crash was "a punch in the gut for many of us".
Meanwhile, Ellen DeGeneres broke down in tears during the opening monologue on her talk show as she paid tribute to Bryant and urged her viewers to "celebrate life".
On Monday night, the Empire State Building in New York was lit up purple and gold - the colours of the LA Lakers - to honour Bryant.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Tributes were also paid in Italy where he spent some of his earliest years and learnt the language while his father played pro basketball in Rieti, about 50 miles from Rome.
Basketball team NPC Rieti published a photo of a young Kobe on its Twitter account, with the caption: "You made us dream.
"We are proud to have been the first to see you take to the court. We will never forget Kobe."
The NBA called off the Lakers' match against the LA Clippers on Tuesday in the wake of Bryant's death.


skynewsus--2020-01-28--Prince Andrew 'going to have to answer questions' - Epstein victims' lawyer

Prince Andrew 'going to have to answer questions ' despite 'not cooperating ' , says lawyer for Epstein victims Prince Andrew 'going to have to answer questions ' despite 'not cooperating ' , says lawyer for Epstein victims Prince Andrew 's lack of co-operation with US authorities is a `` slap in the face '' to Jeffrey Epstein 's victims , according to a lawyer who represents five of the businessman 's accusers .
Lisa Bloom , who represents women who say they were abused by Epstein , told Sky News that Prince Andrew should show leadership and answer questions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manhattan 's top federal prosecutor Geoffrey Berman , Prince Andrew is providing `` zero cooperation '' with a sex-trafficking investigation linked to Epstein , a deceased financier who was a convicted sex offender .
Mr Berman said his team and the FBI had contacted Andrew 's lawyers and asked to interview him but the lawyers had been uncooperative .
During a BBC Newsnight interview last year Prince Andrew suggested he would willingly co-operate with an investigation .
Referencing Andrew 's appearance on BBC Newsnight , Ms Bloom said : `` [ He ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compassion for the victims .
`` After the backlash he said he did have compassion and so he said he would co-operate .
`` This is a slap in the face to the victims .
Why does n't he want to co-operate ?
What is he trying to hide ?
What is he afraid of ? ''
Both Andrew and Epstein 's former girlfriend , Ghislaine Maxwell , have denied any knowledge that Epstein was sexually abusing teenage girls .
Ms Bloom said there was currently no power to summon the prince to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at an investigation stage .
She added : `` You would think he would want to do the right thing , step forward and show some leadership , get to the bottom of what happened not just with him but with Ghislaine Maxwell who he spent a lot of time with . ''
Asked about whether it could end up being a diplomatic issue between the US and the UK , she said : `` I hope not , I think our countries co-operate very well when it comes to the legal system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` do what any other citizen of the UK or the US should do - which is talk to law enforcement , give them the information that you have so we can catch people who are either predators or enablers of predators .
`` He has daughters , his own daughters could have been victims . ''
Ms Bloom also claimed she represents a sixth woman who says she was a witness at the Tramp nightclub the night alleged victim Virginia Roberts Giuffre was there .
Ms Giuffre claims she was with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Pizza Express in Woking that evening , at a birthday party with his daughters .
He has said he has no recollection of ever meeting Ms Roberts Giuffre .
Ms Bloom does not represent anyone who is directly accusing the prince of criminal behaviour , and so she will not be able to issue a subpoena .
But asked whether she thought he would have to answer questions , she said : `` I do n't know whether it will be in the US or by attorneys going to the UK but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questions . ''
Gloria Allred , who represents other Epstein accusers , told the BBC : `` We could , also , in our civil law suit , seek to subpoena Prince Andrew .
`` Certainly , if he ever came back to the United States - that would be one of the first things that I 'm sure a lot of lawyers , including me , would want to do . ''
Buckingham Palace was not commenting on the matter , but a source said : `` This issue is being dealt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal team . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Legal commentator Joshua Rozenberg told Sky News it is not inevitable that the prince will have to face questions , and he may `` tough it out '' .
He said : `` The fact the attorney is putting public pressure on indicates he has limited powers .
`` [ Andrew ] could sit tight and say nothing or he can issue a statement in which he can repeat he has no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosecuted he might want to give evidence in her defence , in which case he might come forward but he might be advised there 's nothing he can say that will help her .
`` He can tough it out unless the political pressure becomes too much because of his reputation and the reputation of the Royal Family . ''
Mr Rozenberg added that he thought Prince Andrew might be torn between his lawyers , who are likely advising him to keep quiet , and his mother , who may suggest a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prince announced he was withdrawing from royal duties amid renewed attention of his friendship with Epstein , who was a convicted paedophile , after his disastrous interview about the friendship .
He has mostly stepped back from public life , staying home instead of attending the 11am Christmas Day service at Sandringham , but was at church with the Queen in mid-January .

Prince Andrew's lack of co-operation with US authorities is a "slap in the face" to Jeffrey Epstein's victims, according to a lawyer who represents five of the businessman's accusers.
Lisa Bloom, who represents women who say they were abused by Epstein, told Sky News that Prince Andrew should show leadership and answer questions as the investigation continues.
According to Manhattan's top federal prosecutor Geoffrey Berman, Prince Andrew is providing "zero cooperation" with a sex-trafficking investigation linked to Epstein, a deceased financier who was a convicted sex offender.
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Mr Berman said his team and the FBI had contacted Andrew's lawyers and asked to interview him but the lawyers had been uncooperative.
During a BBC Newsnight interview last year Prince Andrew suggested he would willingly co-operate with an investigation.
Referencing Andrew's appearance on BBC Newsnight, Ms Bloom said: "[He] did an interview where he showed zero compassion for the victims.
"After the backlash he said he did have compassion and so he said he would co-operate.
"This is a slap in the face to the victims. Why doesn't he want to co-operate? What is he trying to hide? What is he afraid of?"
Both Andrew and Epstein's former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, have denied any knowledge that Epstein was sexually abusing teenage girls.
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Ms Bloom said there was currently no power to summon the prince to give evidence, because the case is at an investigation stage.
She added: "You would think he would want to do the right thing, step forward and show some leadership, get to the bottom of what happened not just with him but with Ghislaine Maxwell who he spent a lot of time with."
Image: Prince Andrew retired from royal duties after a BBC Newsnight interview in which he expressed little sympathy for Jeffrey Epstein's victims
Asked about whether it could end up being a diplomatic issue between the US and the UK, she said: "I hope not, I think our countries co-operate very well when it comes to the legal system."
But she urged Andrew to "do what any other citizen of the UK or the US should do - which is talk to law enforcement, give them the information that you have so we can catch people who are either predators or enablers of predators.
"He has daughters, his own daughters could have been victims."
Ms Bloom also claimed she represents a sixth woman who says she was a witness at the Tramp nightclub the night alleged victim Virginia Roberts Giuffre was there.
Ms Giuffre claims she was with the prince, but he says he was at Pizza Express in Woking that evening, at a birthday party with his daughters. He has said he has no recollection of ever meeting Ms Roberts Giuffre.
Ms Bloom does not represent anyone who is directly accusing the prince of criminal behaviour, and so she will not be able to issue a subpoena.
Image: An image appearing to show Prince Andrew and a 17-year-old Virginia Roberts at Ghislaine Maxwell's house in London in March 2001. Pic: Rex/Shutterstock
But asked whether she thought he would have to answer questions, she said: "I don't know whether it will be in the US or by attorneys going to the UK but he is going to have to answer questions."
Gloria Allred, who represents other Epstein accusers, told the BBC: "We could, also, in our civil law suit, seek to subpoena Prince Andrew.
"Certainly, if he ever came back to the United States - that would be one of the first things that I'm sure a lot of lawyers, including me, would want to do."
Buckingham Palace was not commenting on the matter, but a source said: "This issue is being dealt with by the Duke of York's legal team."
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Legal commentator Joshua Rozenberg told Sky News it is not inevitable that the prince will have to face questions, and he may "tough it out".
He said: "The fact the attorney is putting public pressure on indicates he has limited powers.
"[Andrew] could sit tight and say nothing or he can issue a statement in which he can repeat he has no information.
"If Ghislaine Maxwell is prosecuted he might want to give evidence in her defence, in which case he might come forward but he might be advised there's nothing he can say that will help her.
"He can tough it out unless the political pressure becomes too much because of his reputation and the reputation of the Royal Family."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:02 Virginia Roberts Giuffre hits out at duke
Mr Rozenberg added that he thought Prince Andrew might be torn between his lawyers, who are likely advising him to keep quiet, and his mother, who may suggest a statement would be best.
Last year, the prince announced he was withdrawing from royal duties amid renewed attention of his friendship with Epstein, who was a convicted paedophile, after his disastrous interview about the friendship.
He has mostly stepped back from public life, staying home instead of attending the 11am Christmas Day service at Sandringham, but was at church with the Queen in mid-January.
Sky News has contacted Prince Andrew's lawyers for comment.


skynewsus--2020-01-27--Man charged with killing five of his children when they were babies

Man charged with killing five of his own children when they were babies Man charged with killing five of his own children when they were babies A man has been charged with killing five of his own children - none of them more than six months old .
Paul Perez , who is already behind bars in California , is accused of killing the infants between 1992 and 2001 .
The remains of one of the siblings , three-month-old Nikko Lee Perez , were discovered by a fisherman in March 2007 , submerged in an irrigation canal northwest of Sacramento @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the baby was `` found in a sealed container and weighed down with heavy objects '' .
No information was discovered to further an investigation at the time , but in October , the infant was identified by DNA comparison .
Officials said : `` It is now known that the baby boy was born on November 8 1996 , in Fresno , California . ''
Once they had the DNA information , investigators discovered that Nikko had siblings .
Police said one of them , Kato Allen Perez , was born in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deceased '' , while three other siblings are believed to have died .
Officials said the investigation is ongoing , but declined to say if Perez had other children or if the victims were born to more than one mother .
District Attorney Jeff Reisig said the investigation had `` uncovered a deeply disturbing , chilling case of infanticide '' .
He added : `` Today we are announcing charges against Paul Perez for the serial murder of five of his own children , all babies . ''
Ed Medrano , from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` allegations we are discussing today are senseless , evil and heartbreaking '' .
Perez was arrested at a state prison days before he was expected to be released on unrelated charges , officials said .


skynewsus--2020-01-28--Airbus reaches 'agreement in principle' over corruption probe

Europe-based Airbus competes with US rival Boeing in the aviation sector .
Pic : Airbus Airbus has reached an `` agreement in principle '' with French , UK and US authorities over an investigation into allegations of bribery and corruption .
The planemaker said it could not comment on precise details of its talks with the French Parquet National Financier , the UK Serious Fraud Office and the US authorities , but confirmed it had reached an agreement with all three .
Airbus has been investigated by French and British authorities for almost four years over suspected corruption dating back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fraud began its investigation in July 2016 over claims of fraud , bribery and corruption in Airbus 's civil aviation group .
The allegations related to irregularities concerning third party consultants .
At the centre of the case was a decades-old system of third-party agents or intermediaries run from a now-disbanded unit which at its height involved some 250 people across parts of the world , sources told Reuters news agency .
Airbus has already fired more than 100 people over ethics and compliance issues as a result of its own investigation into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Airbus has faced investigations over suspected violations of export controls .
Airbus said in a statement early on Tuesday : `` These agreements are made in the context of investigations into allegations of bribery and corruption as well as compliance with the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations .
`` They remain subject to approval by French and UK courts and US court and regulator . ''
The Financial Times earlier reported that Airbus could pay out huge sums to reach the settlement , quoting analysts as predicting fines of more than €3bn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the record £671m penalties handed down to Rolls-Royce for similar allegations two years ago .
Airbus is still being investigated by German authorities over alleged misuse of client documents .

Airbus has reached an "agreement in principle" with French, UK and US authorities over an investigation into allegations of bribery and corruption.
The planemaker said it could not comment on precise details of its talks with the French Parquet National Financier, the UK Serious Fraud Office and the US authorities, but confirmed it had reached an agreement with all three.
Airbus has been investigated by French and British authorities for almost four years over suspected corruption dating back more than a decade.
The Serious Fraud began its investigation in July 2016 over claims of fraud, bribery and corruption in Airbus's civil aviation group.
The allegations related to irregularities concerning third party consultants.
At the centre of the case was a decades-old system of third-party agents or intermediaries run from a now-disbanded unit which at its height involved some 250 people across parts of the world, sources told Reuters news agency.
Airbus has already fired more than 100 people over ethics and compliance issues as a result of its own investigation into the corruption claims.
In the US Airbus has faced investigations over suspected violations of export controls.
Airbus said in a statement early on Tuesday: "These agreements are made in the context of investigations into allegations of bribery and corruption as well as compliance with the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
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"They remain subject to approval by French and UK courts and US court and regulator."
The Financial Times earlier reported that Airbus could pay out huge sums to reach the settlement, quoting analysts as predicting fines of more than €3bn (£2.5bn).
This would surpass the record £671m penalties handed down to Rolls-Royce for similar allegations two years ago.
Airbus is still being investigated by German authorities over alleged misuse of client documents.


skynewsus--2020-01-28--Magic mushroom compound gives anti-anxiety effect that lasts years

A single dose of psilocybin , the compound found in magic mushrooms , can have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects which can last for nearly five years after being administered , new research suggests .
Researchers at New York University 's Grossman School of Medicine said that the compound , when given to patients alongside psychotherapy , resulted in improvements in emotional and existential distress in cancer patients .
The use of the drug was first detailed in a landmark study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2016 , where the new research has also been published .
It found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and sustained improvements in anxiety and depression '' in cancer patients , who can often be demoralised by the disease .
A follow-up assessment half a year after the dose found up to 80 % of participants had clinically significant reductions in their depression or anxiety , as well as improved attitudes toward death .
In their most recent work , the scientists conducted follow-up assessments at about three years and four and half years after the dosage .
New York University said : `` Participants overwhelmingly ( 71-100 % ) attributed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experience and rated it among the most personally meaningful and spiritually significant experiences of their lives .
`` Adding to evidence dating back as early as the 1950s , our findings strongly suggest that psilocybin therapy is a promising means of improving the emotional , psychological , and spiritual well-being of patients with life-threatening cancer , '' said Dr Stephen Ross , lead investigator of the 2016 study .
`` This approach has the potential to produce a paradigm shift in the psychological and existential care of patients with cancer , especially those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ross .
Scientists in the Netherlands are also testing the impact on brain function of small regular doses of LSD in what they say is a `` renaissance '' for psychedelic drugs .
In one of the first studies of its kind , the researchers are testing whether `` microdosing '' with the illegal drug - using it at levels too low to induce hallucination - enhances mental performance and mood .
According to the New York University researchers , psilocybin could provide medical practitioners with a useful tool to amplify the effectiveness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cancer .
`` Although the precise mechanisms are not fully understood , experts believe that the drug can make the brain more flexible and receptive to new ideas and thought patterns , '' stated New York University .
Previous research has indicated that the psychedelic compound targets a specific network of the brain known as the default mode network .
This network is believed to be activated when `` we engage in self-reflection and mind wandering '' and which , according to New York University , `` helps to create our sense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ identity '' .
The researchers suggest : `` In patients with anxiety and depression , this network becomes hyperactive and is associated with rumination , worry , and rigid thinking .
`` Psilocybin appears to acutely shift activity in this network and helps people to take a more broadened perspective on their behaviours and lives . ''

A single dose of psilocybin, the compound found in magic mushrooms, can have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects which can last for nearly five years after being administered, new research suggests.
Researchers at New York University's Grossman School of Medicine said that the compound, when given to patients alongside psychotherapy, resulted in improvements in emotional and existential distress in cancer patients.
The use of the drug was first detailed in a landmark study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2016, where the new research has also been published.
It found that psilocybin "produced immediate, substantial, and sustained improvements in anxiety and depression" in cancer patients, who can often be demoralised by the disease.
A follow-up assessment half a year after the dose found up to 80% of participants had clinically significant reductions in their depression or anxiety, as well as improved attitudes toward death.
Image: Dutch researchers are examining the use of LSD
In their most recent work, the scientists conducted follow-up assessments at about three years and four and half years after the dosage.
New York University said: "Participants overwhelmingly (71-100%) attributed positive life changes to the psilocybin-assisted therapy experience and rated it among the most personally meaningful and spiritually significant experiences of their lives.
"Adding to evidence dating back as early as the 1950s, our findings strongly suggest that psilocybin therapy is a promising means of improving the emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being of patients with life-threatening cancer," said Dr Stephen Ross, lead investigator of the 2016 study.
"This approach has the potential to produce a paradigm shift in the psychological and existential care of patients with cancer, especially those with terminal illness," added Dr Ross.
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Scientists in the Netherlands are also testing the impact on brain function of small regular doses of LSD in what they say is a "renaissance" for psychedelic drugs.
In one of the first studies of its kind, the researchers are testing whether "microdosing" with the illegal drug - using it at levels too low to induce hallucination - enhances mental performance and mood.
According to the New York University researchers, psilocybin could provide medical practitioners with a useful tool to amplify the effectiveness of psychotherapy and relieve the psychological weight of cancer.
"Although the precise mechanisms are not fully understood, experts believe that the drug can make the brain more flexible and receptive to new ideas and thought patterns," stated New York University.
Previous research has indicated that the psychedelic compound targets a specific network of the brain known as the default mode network.
This network is believed to be activated when "we engage in self-reflection and mind wandering" and which, according to New York University, "helps to create our sense of self and sense of coherent narrative identity".
The researchers suggest: "In patients with anxiety and depression, this network becomes hyperactive and is associated with rumination, worry, and rigid thinking.
"Psilocybin appears to acutely shift activity in this network and helps people to take a more broadened perspective on their behaviours and lives."


skynewsus--2020-01-28--'A thousand noes': Palestinians reject Trump Middle East peace plan

Donald Trump has unveiled his long-awaited Middle East peace plan , saying the `` realistic '' two-state solution is a `` win-win opportunity '' for both Israel and the Palestinians .
Standing next to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House , the president said the US administration 's vision would form the basis of direct negotiations between the two sides which was a `` historic breakthrough '' .
The proposal calls for the creation of a State of Palestine with its capital in parts of eastern Jerusalem and it more than doubles the territory currently under Palestinian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sovereignty over major settlement blocs in the West Bank , something which the Palestinians will almost certainly object to .
The Palestinians have already rejected the proposal , accusing Mr Trump of being biased in favour of Israel .
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called the peace plan a `` conspiracy '' and he gave it `` a thousand noes '' .
He said : `` I say to Trump and Netanyahu : Jerusalem is not for sale , all our rights are not for sale and are not for bargain .
And your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pass . ''
Mr Abbas added : `` After the nonsense that we heard today , we say a thousand noes to the deal of the century . ''
An official with the ruling Hamas group in Gaza called Mr Trump 's statement `` aggressive '' and said the Jerusalem plan was `` nonsense '' .
However , the US president said the deal was a `` historic opportunity '' for Palestinians to achieve an independent state of their own .
The future Palestinian state would consist of the West Bank and Gaza @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , bridges and above-ground tunnels .
Under the plan , the US will recognise Israeli settlements on the occupied West Bank , and in return Israel would accept a four-year freeze on the construction of its new settlements while Palestinian statehood was negotiated .
However , it was not immediately clear if the freeze could be extended if a final deal was not concluded in four years .
Mr Trump said Israel was taking a `` giant step toward peace '' and Palestinians deserved the chance for a better life .
The absence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is likely to fuel criticism that the plan leans toward Israel 's needs rather than those of the Palestinians .
Mr Trump , who has already recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel , claimed his vision will end the cycle of Palestinian dependence on charity and foreign aid , as he urged peaceful co-existence between the two sides .
The American leader said he told Mr Abbas that if he chooses peace then the US and other countries `` will be there every step of the way to help '' .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump said it was time for `` this sad chapter in history to end '' .
Mr Netanyahu said he has agreed to negotiate with the Palestinians because the peace plan `` strikes a balance '' .
He said `` this is a historic day '' , comparing the peace plan to former President Harry Truman 's recognition of the state of Israel in 1948 .
`` On this day , you became the first world leader to recognise Israel 's sovereignty over areas in Judea and Samaria that are vital to our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Mr Netanyahu added , using the biblical names for the West Bank .
The political outline goes further in concessions to the Palestinians than many analysts had believed was likely .
However , it would require them to accept conditions they have been previously unwilling to consider , such as accepting West Bank settlements .
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said he welcomed the plan , adding `` only the leaders of Israel and the Palestinian territories can determine whether these proposals can meet the needs and aspirations of the people they represent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give these plans genuine and fair consideration , and explore whether they might prove a first step on the road back to negotiations . ''

Donald Trump has unveiled his long-awaited Middle East peace plan, saying the "realistic" two-state solution is a "win-win opportunity" for both Israel and the Palestinians.
Standing next to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, the president said the US administration's vision would form the basis of direct negotiations between the two sides which was a "historic breakthrough".
The proposal calls for the creation of a State of Palestine with its capital in parts of eastern Jerusalem and it more than doubles the territory currently under Palestinian control.
But it also recognises Israeli sovereignty over major settlement blocs in the West Bank, something which the Palestinians will almost certainly object to.
Image: Mr Trump was joined by Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the announcement
The Palestinians have already rejected the proposal, accusing Mr Trump of being biased in favour of Israel.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called the peace plan a "conspiracy" and he gave it "a thousand noes".
He said: "I say to Trump and Netanyahu: Jerusalem is not for sale, all our rights are not for sale and are not for bargain. And your deal, the conspiracy, will not pass."
Mr Abbas added: "After the nonsense that we heard today, we say a thousand noes to the deal of the century."
Image: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has rejected Mr Trump's peace plan
An official with the ruling Hamas group in Gaza called Mr Trump's statement "aggressive" and said the Jerusalem plan was "nonsense".
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However, the US president said the deal was a "historic opportunity" for Palestinians to achieve an independent state of their own.
The future Palestinian state would consist of the West Bank and Gaza, connected by a combination of roads, bridges and above-ground tunnels.
Under the plan, the US will recognise Israeli settlements on the occupied West Bank, and in return Israel would accept a four-year freeze on the construction of its new settlements while Palestinian statehood was negotiated.
However, it was not immediately clear if the freeze could be extended if a final deal was not concluded in four years.
Mr Trump said Israel was taking a "giant step toward peace" and Palestinians deserved the chance for a better life.
The absence of Palestinians from Mr Trump's announcement is likely to fuel criticism that the plan leans toward Israel's needs rather than those of the Palestinians.
Mr Trump, who has already recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, claimed his vision will end the cycle of Palestinian dependence on charity and foreign aid, as he urged peaceful co-existence between the two sides.
The American leader said he told Mr Abbas that if he chooses peace then the US and other countries "will be there every step of the way to help".
And urging peace in the region, Mr Trump said it was time for "this sad chapter in history to end".
Image: An Israeli settlement being built in the occupied West Bank
Mr Netanyahu said he has agreed to negotiate with the Palestinians because the peace plan "strikes a balance".
He said "this is a historic day", comparing the peace plan to former President Harry Truman's recognition of the state of Israel in 1948.
"On this day, you became the first world leader to recognise Israel's sovereignty over areas in Judea and Samaria that are vital to our security and central to our heritage," Mr Netanyahu added, using the biblical names for the West Bank.
The political outline goes further in concessions to the Palestinians than many analysts had believed was likely.
However, it would require them to accept conditions they have been previously unwilling to consider, such as accepting West Bank settlements.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said he welcomed the plan, adding "only the leaders of Israel and the Palestinian territories can determine whether these proposals can meet the needs and aspirations of the people they represent".
"We encourage them to give these plans genuine and fair consideration, and explore whether they might prove a first step on the road back to negotiations."