Pelican Press

Tears and heartbreak over tragic story of South African girl sold by her mother Tears and heartbreak over tragic story of South African girl sold by her mother A video clip of a laughing Joshlin Smith, who was six years old when she went missing more than a year ago in South Africa, left most people in the courtroom sobbing. It was shown during a hearing in Saldanha Bay, near Cape Town, ahead of the sentencing of Joshlin’s mother – a drug addict who is believed to have sold her for money. Racquel Smith, also known as Kelly Smith, was convicted of kidnapping and trafficking her daughter earlier this month. The 35-year-old mother of three was found guilty along with her boyfriend Jacquen Appollis and their friend Steveno van Rhyn. Even the court interpreter could not hold back her tears as she translated the victim impact statements into English. A court official read out those statements first in Afrikaans, the language spoken by those in the impoverished Middelpos informal settlement of Saldanha Bay, where Joshlin had lived. In their own words, Joshlin’s grandmother, the family friend who had wanted to adopt Joshlin and her teacher spoke of their pain and bewilderment about how she could have been sold by her mother. One witness during the trial had alleged this was to a traditional healer, known in South Africa as a “sangoma”, who wanted Joshlin for “her eyes and skin”. A local pastor also testified that he had once heard Smith talk of selling her children for 20,000 rand ($1,100; £850) each, but would have been willing to accept a lower figure of $275. “How do you sleep [and] live with yourself?” a devastated Amanda Smith-Daniels, who is looking after her other two grandchildren, asked her daughter in her victim statement on Wednesday. Smith and her co-accused refused to take the stand during the six-week trial that began in March and was held at a community centre in Saldanha to allow the wider community to attend proceedings. But as Joshlin’s mother heard the statements on Wednesday and saw the video clip, she sobbed uncontrollably. Joshlin’s teacher, Edna Maart, described the little girl as a quiet pupil who was “very tidy”. She said she struggled with daily questions from Joshlin’s schoolmates about her whereabouts. Determined not to forget her, she said the class listened to her favourite gospel song God Will Work It Out at the start of every school day. It was also played to a teary courtroom on Wednesday. To this day no-one knows what has happened to Joshlin. Joshlin Smith’s mother and her co-accused refused to testify [EPA] Her disappearance on 19 February 2024 caused shockwaves across the country. Bianca van Aswegen, a criminologist and national co-ordinator at Missing Children South Africa, likened it to the case of Madeleine McCann, a British girl who went missing in Portugal in 2007. Madeleine was aged three when she vanished from a holiday apartment in Praia da Luz in the Algarve – and hers is one of the most high-profile, unsolved missing person cases in the world. Ms Van Aswegen told the BBC that while the trio’s conviction in Joshlin’s case had given people a sense of relief, “the matter of fact is that nobody knows where Joshlin is and I think that’s the big question that South Africa is still asking”. A picture of Joshlin’s troubled life emerged during the trial – and a better sense of her personality during this week’s hearings ahead of sentencing. She was born in October 2017, to Smith and her former partner Jose Emke, who broke down on Wednesday and had to be carried out of the courtroom. Their second child – she and her older brother, now 11, had both suffered from neglect, according to a social worker who testified during the trial. Growing up, Kelly Smith had lived with her maternal grandmother and had struggled with substance abuse since she was 15 – often becoming abusive towards her and her children when she was high, social workers said. A report prepared by a social worker for the sentencing hearing paints a stark picture of Smith’s drug addiction at the time of Joshlin’s birth. Her grandmother had kicked Smith out of the family home because of her drug use and she had threatened to stab her own son at that time. The judge noted that it took Smith five months to register Joshlin’s birth – by law this must be done within 30 days – and had lived intermittently at a shelter for abused women. When she went into rehab later on, family friend Natasha Andrews stepped in to care for Joshlin – and she and her husband had wanted to adopt her. “We could have provided for her better than her mother,” Ms Andrews said during the trial, but the plans fell apart in 2018 as the parents “wouldn’t agree” to it. Despite this, Joshlin often visited the Andrews family for weekends and school holidays and would go on trips with them. The clip shown in court on Wednesday of Joshlin laughing was from one of those holidays and formed part of Ms Andrews’ victim statement. She shared this and other photos of Joshlin playing with her own daughter because “so many people… don’t know what Joshlin sounds like”, she said. It was this and her description of her family’s pain that sparked the greatest outpouring of emotion in the courtroom. Joshlin grew up in a corrugated iron structure located in Middelpos informal settlement with her mother, her mother’s partner, her brother and younger half-sister. The social workers’ report described the shack as offering “little in the way of privacy due to its highly restrictive living space”. This is the shack where Joshlin and her family lived [Mohammed Allie / BBC] Smith did odd jobs to support her family, including part-time domestic work for Kelly Zeegers, who lived with her family in a nearby neighbourhood and paid her with groceries instead of cash. “This is to make sure that she and the children have a plate of food,” Ms Zeegers said during her testimony. Some witnesses did describe Smith as a good mother; her sister told the court Joshlin was the spitting image of her mum when she was young. The little that is known of what happened to Joshlin on the day she disappeared is thanks to Laurentia Lombaard, who turned state witness. She had been at the shack smoking drugs with Appollis and Van Rhyn at the time. She explained that Joshlin, who had started school a few weeks before her disappearance, and her brother had stayed at home that day because they did not have clean uniforms. The children had been mainly left in the care of Appollis as Smith was in and out during course of the day, occasionally returning to smoke. It is not clear exactly how or when Joshlin went missing but the trial established it was some time during the afternoon – but the preoccupation of most of the adults meant the disappearance was only reported to the police at 21:00. The social worker appointed to compile the report on the trio ahead of their sentencing described Smith as “manipulative” and someone who told “bald-faced lies”. “It is therefore not a stretch to conclude that Smith is the mastermind behind the trafficking of her own daughter,” he said. A community centre has played host to the High Court trial [Gallo Images via Getty Images] Ms Van Aswegen said she hoped the trio would be given “a proper sentence” that reflected a growing crisis in child trafficking. “It is much more of a crisis than police stats actually show us due to the fact of many cases going unreported,” she told the BBC. She said what was unusual in Joshlin’s case was that it had captured the whole nation. “I have never really seen a case blow up like this in South Africa before [and] neither have we seen such a big search for a missing child. I think social media played a big role [and] we had political parties get involved in the case.” According to South African news site IOL, 632 children were reported missing last year and 8,743 over the past 10 years. Earlier this month, police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said many children were eventually reunited with their families. Ms Van Aswegen said this showed that one could never give up hope and the search for Joshlin would continue. This hope was reflected most by the Andrews family during the sentencing hearing. A poem written by Ms Andrews’ 14-year-old daughter Tayla was also read out in court. It described her pain of not knowing what had happened to Joshlin and her hope that she was safe. “We just want to hug you again,” Ms Andrews’ said in her statement. “You are our flower, our baby and our green-eyed child.” You may also be interested in: [Getty Images/BBC] Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent. Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica BBC Africa podcasts Source link #Tears #heartbreak #tragic #story #South #African #girl #sold #mother Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Pixel 9, Pixel Watch 3 Now Directly Available for Purchase from Google Store in India; Offers Announced Pixel 9, Pixel Watch 3 Now Directly Available for Purchase from Google Store in India; Offers Announced The official Google Store is now live in India. It enables customers to purchase Google’s products including smartphones, TWS earbuds, and smartwatches directly from the OEM instead of authorised retail partners or resellers. As per the tech giant, buying the Pixel Watch or Pixel Watch 3 via the Google Store has several benefits. Buyers will not only receive authentic products, but also flexible payment options and exclusive offers like Store Credit and discounts, some of which are live for a limited time. Google Store Now Live in India In a blog post, Google said that purchasing a product through the official Google Store in India makes buyers eligible for discounts, Google Store Credit, or instant cashback. They can also opt to trade in their old device for a new Pixel and enjoy an exchange bonus. As part of the launch offers, the company promises additional bonus on top of the value of the old device. For example, Google is currently offering a Rs. 6,000 cashback on the Pixel 9, Rs. 12,000 on the Pixel 9 Pro, and Rs. 15,000 on the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Buyers can also take advantage of Google Store discounts on select models up to Rs. 15,000. This means that the instant discount, along with the bank offers, bring down the net effective price of the Pixel 9 to Rs. 67,999. Meanwhile, last year’s Pixel 8 Pro is being offered with a staggering Rs. 37,000 discount along with a Rs. 7,000 cashback, taking down its net effective price to Rs. 62,999. Notably, the instant cashback offers are valid on transactions carried out with an HDFC Bank Credit Card. In addition to discounts and instant cashback offers, customers can also take advantage of no-cost EMI offers if they do not wish to pay the bill amount of the Pixel device in one go. Product MRP Google Store discount Instant cashback Net effective price You pay, with NCEMI Exchange bonus³ Exchange savings Effective monthly price Google Store credit for your next purchase Pixel 9a Rs. 49,999 – Rs. 3,000 Rs. 46,999 Rs. 1,958/mo (24 months) – Rs. 11,000 Rs. 1,499 – Pixel 9 Rs. 79,999 Rs. 5,000 Rs. 7,000 Rs. 67,999 Rs. 2,833/mo (24 months) Get Rs. 6,000 back Rs. 15,000 Rs. 1,958 Rs. 5,000 credit Pixel 9 Pro Rs. 1,09,999 Rs. 10,000 Rs. 10,000 Rs. 89,999 Rs. 3,750/mo (24 months) Get Rs. 12,000 back Rs. 15,000 Rs. 2,624 Rs. 10,000 credit Pixel 9 Pro XL Rs. 1,24,999 Rs. 10,000 Rs. 10,000 Rs. 1,04,999 Rs. 4,375/mo (24 months) Get Rs. 12,000 back Rs. 15,000 Rs. 3,249 Rs. 10,000 credit Pixel 9 Pro Fold Rs. 1,72,999 Rs. 10,000 Rs. 10,000 Rs. 1,52,999 Rs. 6,375/mo (24 months) Get Rs. 15,000 back Rs. 20,000 Rs. 4,916 Rs. 12,000 credit Pixel 8a Rs. 52,999 Rs. 15,000 Rs. 3,000 Rs. 34,999 Rs. 1,458/mo (24 months) – Rs. 6,000 Rs. 1,208 – Pixel 8 Pro Rs. 1,06,999 Rs. 37,000 Rs. 7,000 Rs. 62,999 Rs. 2,625/mo (24 months) – Rs. 8,000 Rs. 2,292 – Pixel Watch 3 From Rs. 39,900 – – From Rs. 39,900 From Rs. 3,325/mo (12 months) – – From Rs. 3,325 Rs. 5,000 credit Pixel Buds Pro 2 Rs. 22,900 – – Rs. 22,900 Rs. 1,908/mo (12 months) – – Rs. 1,908 Rs. 3,000 credit While buyers can also purchase the Pixel Watch 3 or the Pixel Buds Pro 2 from the Google Store in India, the Mountain View-based tech giant has not announced any offers on these devices. However, they are offered with a Google Store Credit of Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 3,000, respectively, which will be applicable on the buyer’s next purchase from Google. The company emphasises that if buyers find a better price for the product at a selected retail partner or on the Google Store itself within the return *******, they may be eligible for a partial refund to match the lowered price, as part of its Pixel Price Promise. It also offers round the clock support from trained experts, official warranty coverage, and same-day service at select locations across India. Source link #Pixel #Pixel #Watch #Purchase #Google #Store #India #Offers #Announced Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

China boosts Pacific ties, flags policing collaboration China boosts Pacific ties, flags policing collaboration China has sought to stamp its authority in the Pacific against *********** wishes, hosting island leaders while searching for a greater security foothold in the region. ******** Foreign Minister Wang Yi wrapped up a two-day summit with a clutch of Pacific nations on Thursday with promises on climate and development, and further police cooperation. Beijing will give $US2 million to prop up clean energy, fisheries, oceans, low-carbon infrastructure and tourism across the region. Mr Wang also pledged support for 100 “small but beautiful” projects across Pacific nations over the next three years. Eleven Pacific nations were represented in Xiamen, including the leaders of Kiribati and Niue, and another eight foreign ministers. The three Pacific nations that hold diplomatic recognition of Taiwan were left out, as were the two France-aligned countries of New Caledonia and French Polynesia. The joint statement “stressed that there is no political strings attached to China’s assistance” and included a veiled swipe at nations like Australia opposing Beijing having a security presence in the region.” China called on all countries to uphold Pacific island countries’ autonomy in making decisions, putting development first, and staying open and inclusive when developing relations with Pacific island countries,” the readout said. Australia has said there is no role for China in Pacific policing or security, which should instead be the remit of those in the region, including Australia. The ******** readout of the dialogue said all nations agreed to “set co-operation priorities”, including police training, with China initiating a ministerial-level dialogue with the Pacific this year. Some Pacific nations – including Kiribati, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands – already co-operate with or host ******** police. Pacific expert Tess Newton Cain said Pacific nations needed to consider the policing model that best suits their country. Some ******** practices “are considered not appropriate for countries that consider themselves liberal democracies”, she said. The statement described Taiwan as “an inalienable part of China’s territory” and noted China firmly opposed independence in any form in a paragraph “all parties recognise”. “That section of the communique is more pronounced than we’ve seen previously and that reflects the importance of that issue to the People’s Republic of China,” Dr Newton Cain said. But this was largely preaching to the choir as the Pacific nations that attended the meeting already recognised China and had committed to a one-China principle, she said. The China-Pacific summit wrapped up as global leaders descend on Singapore for the Shangri-La Dialogue, a significant regional security forum. Defence Minister Richard Marles will attend the summit from Friday to Sunday on behalf of Australia and address a session on managing proliferation risk in the Asia-Pacific. He will also meet with numerous counterparts and leaders, including a tripartite defence ministers meeting with the United States and Japan. Source link #China #boosts #Pacific #ties #flags #policing #collaboration Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Utah judge’s sentence for child ************ offender sparks controversy, the court’s response Utah judge’s sentence for child ************ offender sparks controversy, the court’s response Report child ******* assault material to law enforcement by contacting the ICAC Tip Line at (801) 281-1211 or your local law enforcement agency. SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (ABC4) — A judge’s decision on the sentencing of a 22-year-old man convicted of ******* exploitation of a minor has stirred up discussion among lawmakers that resulted in a statement from the Utah State Courts. Adian Hoffman, 22, from Maine, was found guilty of two second-degree felony charges of ******* exploitation of a minor. He was initially charged with 10 first-degree felony counts of aggravated ******* exploitation of a minor. The 22-year-old was accused of possessing child ******* abuse material (CSAM) and distributing it while house-sitting for a relative in Moab. Officers found more than 300 images of CSAM on his devices, according to documents. Man arrested after neighbor allegedly finds ******* videos of minor on his GoPro Hoffman was sentenced to 1 to 15 years in prison for each charge, but that sentence was suspended for probation. He received 112 days in jail and 48 months of probation on May 20, 2025, by Seventh District Judge Don M. Torgerson. There were also conditions ordered on his parole, such as no internet access without approval from the Department of Adult Probation and Parole (AP&P), maintaining a full-time job, and completing a cognitive-behavioral course, among other conditions. Speaker Schultz and Utah GOP respond On May 24, 2025, Mike Schultz-R, Speaker of the Utah House of Representatives, posted on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) about the sentencing of Hoffman. He even called for Judge Torgerson to resign. This is deeply troubling and indicative of a broader pattern within the judiciary. Such decisions not only fail to deliver justice for victims — in this case, children — but also erode public confidence in the legal system. Judge Torgerson’s comments and decision are a failure of justice, and cannot be ignored. He must resign. He should not be able to continue sitting on the bench and serving the people of this great state. Speaker Mike Schultz on Instagram Several days after Schultz’s post, the Utah Republican Party also responded to the sentencing decision made on May 20. On May 27, 2025, the Utah GOP shared a screenshot of Schultz’s post on X and added, “Speaker Schultz is exactly right. Justice must protect children, and that requires holding those who harm them fully accountable. Judge Torgerson’s decision is a clear miscarriage of justice. He should resign.” Sex offender arrested for attempting to meet child in Lehi, documents say Utah State Courts’ statement In a statement by the Utah State Courts on May 28, they clarified that quotes from the sentencing “omitted several relevant and important facts” and were “without context and should not be the sole basis for any conclusion.” The State expressly agreed in its written plea agreement that the Defendant would receive probation, rather than a prison sentence. Additionally, the sentence imposed by Judge Torgerson was squarely aligned with the 2025 Adult Sentencing, Release, & Supervision Guidelines promulgated by the Utah Sentencing Commission and unanimously approved by the Utah Legislature during the 2025 General Session. Adult Probation and Parole’s probation recommendation was also aligned with the Adult Sentencing, Release, & Supervision Guidelines Part of the Utah State Courts’ statement on Hoffman’s sentencing A link to the full sentencing video was provided for the public. Those who are interested can watch Hoffman’s sentencing in full on the Utah State Courts website. “The Judiciary is committed to transparency and encourages anyone who has questions about the sentence to listen to the entire audio recording of the sentencing hearing,” the Utah State Courts concluded in their statement. Man arrested for allegedly using cryptocurrency to purchase child sex abuse material, first arrest of its kind in Utah What was said during sentencing? This section will contain quotes and a full explanation of everything that happened during the sentencing hearing. As aforementioned, those who are interested can view the full sentencing on the Utah State Courts website. Two evidence files that were sent from Kik — the app where Hoffman distributed CSAM — to law enforcement were shown to Judge Torgerson at the request of the prosecution. This defense said they would leave it to the court’s discretion and would not block the viewing of the files. Judge Torgerson reviewed the files and stated that they depicted “obvious prepubescent children engaging in ******* activity.” He asked the Grand County Attorney, Stephen J. Stocks, to give his sentencing recommendation. “This is where this whole case starts off, we look at the [pre-sentence investigation] and there is a substantial amount of images, a hundred images, and although the defendant didn’t plead to all of those, that was what was found,” Stocks stated. Man charged with alleged ******* abuse of human trafficking victim in Duchesne County Stocks told the judge that Hoffman downplayed his involvement in downloading and distributing the CSAM. Hoffman allegedly claimed to be ill and that his sickness led to his developing a CSAM addiction. According to Stocks, among the images were children from the ages of 3 to 15, and he described them as “horrendous.” The state requested prison, and Stocks stated that jail time would not be sufficient. He said that although Hoffman was seeking treatment now, his desire and intention created a demand for more CSAM to be made. “I think the light amount of jail doesn’t really take into consideration the severity of this case. I think there are aggravating factors, such as the distribution. Now, I know he’s engaged in treatment… but this type of behavior and this type of charge demands, in the interest of justice for the children, that he be incarcerated in the Utah State Prison,” Stocks concluded. Tara Isaacson, the defense attorney for Hoffman, then provided her recommendation. She started by stating that Hoffman is only 22 years old, and was 20 when he committed the offense. Isaacson said that those who are under 21 when committing these types of offenses usually receive a lighter sentence due to their age. Hoffman completed a psychosexual evaluation and has been involved in “intense” sex offender therapy while the case was being processed, according to Isaacson. She also stated that since his release, he has been engaged in the community, found a job, and entered an age-appropriate relationship, all things that she claims have prevented him from reoffending. Red Rock Canyon School faces lawsuit over employee’s alleged ******* misconduct “This is not a family, or a defendant, who has downplayed or minimized the seriousness of this. We recognize that these images are terrible, and that this ************ is terrible and these images are awful, but this is someone who has absolutely not attempted to minimize… in every single category, he was in the low range, I rarely ever see that,” Isaacson told the court. Isaacson stated that Hoffman acknowledged what he did was wrong during therapy and did not try to “minimize” the crime that he had committed. She stated that Hoffman would not be receiving a light sentence as he was working hard to turn his life around after being jailed at age 20. “I think this is a situation where Aidan has demonstrated, over the last months he’s been out, that he can follow the rules, he can comply, he’s engaged and motivated in treatment and he’s not given up. Instead, he’s really kicked into overdrive to try to be productive and to contribute to society,” Isaacson said. In AP&P’s review of the sentencing recommendation from the defense, Isaacson said they did not find the aggravating circumstances mentioned by the prosecution and recommended the jail sentence. She asked for an appropriate jail sentence for Hoffman’s actions based on this recommendation. McDonald’s employee charged for alleged ******* relationship with 16-year-old coworker Hoffman then addressed Judge Torgerson to share his statement before sentencing. “Since I was released, I’ve been engaged in intensive treatment. In that treatment, I’ve worked on being accountable for what I’ve done, and also I’ve learned about the abuse perpetuated through the viewing and sharing of child ************ and just how awful that abuse is,” Hoffman stated. He shared that he felt guilty about the images and videos he viewed and regretted the impact it had on those child victims. Hoffman said that he was working hard to build a new life in Utah and completing therapy while complying with all restrictions of probation. He intends to start college in the fall if AP&P allows. “I’m grateful, to some extent, that law enforcement intervened, because I needed help for something real. And it’s something that’s not — it’s not something you can talk about with people, you can’t bring it up to your parents, you can’t find help normally in society, and unfortunately, I had to confront this problem in the worst way possible,” Hoffman said. Hoffman concluded by saying there was no justification for what he did, but he was committed to being better, and he was willing to do “whatever the court sees fit.” “I’ve done defense work, I’ve seen worse. That’s not to minimize at all, Mr. Hoffman, what has happened here. You didn’t perpetrate those two videos that I saw… what you did was pour all that gasoline on all those fires, because by viewing and sharing those images, you were stoking a problem that just seems to grow,” Judge Torgerson stated. U.S. Army Sgt. charged with 30 felonies for alleged online ******* relationship with 15-year-old Judge Torgerson stated that it was a large problem in Utah, and that he’s seen it among young adults with access to social media and phones, and that he’s also seen it in older adults who don’t have that same access. “Mr. Stocks’ position on this, I think, is well-founded, to say that there’s really zero tolerance from his perspective as the county attorney for this kind of behavior. The reality is a little different, and I think the [pre-sentence investigation] takes that into consideration in its recommendation,” Judge Torgerson continued. He clarified that the pre-sentence investigation’s recommendation is created through reviewing similar cases and comparing how those sentencings were handled. “I can’t send everybody to prison who views child ************. There aren’t enough prisons. There aren’t enough prisons for people who are severe, extreme viewers of child ************, like you,” he said. “I think it’s like alcoholism, and you may not, but the compulsion to view child ************, scientists will say, may or may not be an addiction.” Judge Torgerson stated that he didn’t believe Hoffman’s addiction began with CSAM, but rather adult ************, and that Hoffman had escalated that addiction. He said that Hoffman was not yet a 75-year-old “******* bishop” who is perpetrating on children and grandchildren, and hopes that he will never become that. Utah National Guardsman arrested on suspicion of child sex abuse The judge told Hoffman that he was young, he had too much time on his hands, and that he had shown an improvement from who he was when he was 20. Judge Torgerson stated that this was going to be a life-long process, and Hoffman needed to prevent this compulsion and addiction from returning. “Children get ****** because of men like you, who encourage that kind of perpetrating,” he stated. “I truly do hope what your therapist says is true about you and the work that you’ve done.” Judge Torgerson followed AP&P’s recommendation and sentenced him to 1 to 15 years in prison, the standard sentence for that felony charge. He then suspended the sentences and placed Hoffman on probation, and gave him credit for time served in jail. “Does that mean I’m going easy on you here? I don’t know. I don’t want you to engage in this kind of activity, obviously. You don’t want to, I trust. Your parents don’t want you to do that… if you violate the terms of your probation, I won’t hesitate to send you to prison,” Judge Torgerson stated. He concluded by reminding Hoffman that this was an opportunity to correct his behaviors and make a difference, but the right to that opportunity could be taken away. Judge Torgerson said he would not hesitate to give the maximum sentence if he saw Hoffman in his courtroom again. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Source link #Utah #judges #sentence #child #************ #offender #sparks #controversy #courts #response Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Elon Musk steps down from Trump administration – Financial Times Elon Musk steps down from Trump administration – Financial Times Elon Musk steps down from Trump administration Financial TimesElon Musk is leaving the Trump administration after leading effort to slash federal government AP NewsDaily Briefing: Trouble in Trumpland The Indian ExpressElon Musk, Distanced From Trump, Says He’s Exiting Washington and DOGE The New York Times‘First Buddy’ Musk Officially Cuts Ties With the White House The Daily Beast Source link #Elon #Musk #steps #Trump #administration #Financial #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

'Archaic' law casts cloud over Kiwi's top cop job 'Archaic' law casts cloud over Kiwi's top cop job Concerns over the eligibility of a New Zealander to serve as an *********** state’s top cop have forced law changes to be rushed through parliament. Source link #039Archaic039 #law #casts #cloud #Kiwi039s #top #cop #job Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

UBS' Lo on APAC Family Offices, Markets UBS' Lo on APAC Family Offices, Markets UBS’ Lo on APAC Family Offices, Markets Source link #UBS039 #APAC #Family #Offices #Markets Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

China extends its reach into the Solar System with launch of asteroid mission – Ars Technica China extends its reach into the Solar System with launch of asteroid mission – Ars Technica China extends its reach into the Solar System with launch of asteroid mission Ars TechnicaChina launches Tianwen-2 mission to sample near Earth asteroid SpaceNewsChina launches space mission to retrieve asteroid samples YahooChina launches space probe seeking asteroid samples Phys.orgAhead of the launch: What is the Tianwen-2 mission? news.cgtn.com Source link #China #extends #reach #Solar #System #launch #asteroid #mission #Ars #Technica Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

PGA returns after administration to continue to fight against “costly” government interventions PGA returns after administration to continue to fight against “costly” government interventions Pastoralists and Graziers Association of WA president Tony Seabrook says the 118-year-old organisation is “back in full force” to protect its community which has been “shunned” by both State and Federal governments. The farmer advocacy group fell into administration in January after a $1m-plus claim from the *********** Taxation Office for a long-running debt. Administrator RSM probed the “the organisation’s financial irregularities” and referred the matter to WA Police, rocking the industry in the lead-up to the State and Federal elections. But the association moved back into its office in West Perth in early March and Mr Seabrook said the association was ready to put the “difficult *******” behind it and continue to prioritise its members. “None of the members within the association were in any way involved in anything that has happened,” he said. “There’s an ongoing police investigation and we’re awaiting to see what they dig up. Until then, we will continue to advocate for the needs of our members. “We exist to service our members to the very best of our ability and also the broader agricultural industry.” Mr Seabrook said it was a time of great turmoil for farmers. “We’re doing what we do to protect our members and our community at a time where we have a State Government and a Federal Government that doesn’t really seem to care very much about agriculture,” he said. “Our main focus has always been to service and protect our members against the ignorance and stupidity of government and bureaucracy. “We provide a very worthwhile service to all of our members because we want to look after them.” The industry is currently being rocked by several State and Federal government interventions, including electronic sheep and goat identification, tax on unrealised gains, new firearms regulations — and the subsequent issues with the new online portal — and the live sheep export ban. Mr Seabrook is among many WA farmers who have decreased their flock in the wake of the live sheep export ban, decreasing his flock from 3000 to 150 head in recent months due to sky-high operational costs. Mr Seabrook said the PGA would continue to advocate against these interventions which are “costing” regional communities. “The phased transition to mandatory electronic identification for sheep and goats by July 1, 2026 is another nail in the coffin for farmers,” he said. “While the tax on unrealised gains is unfair and unreasonable, and fails to acknowledge the impact on rural farming families.” Source link #PGA #returns #administration #continue #fight #costly #government #interventions Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Ozark car dealership owner charged with deceptive business practice Ozark car dealership owner charged with deceptive business practice OZARK, Mo. — A Nixa man who owns a car dealership in Ozark faces felony charges after the dealership sold a car that had not been paid off to a customer. According to online court dockets, Vladislav Petrovich Prisyazhyuk, born in 1997, is charged with two counts of deceptive business practice. The probable cause statement says that on Dec. 14, 2024, a woman and her husband purchased a 2020 Buck Enclave from Select Motor Company in Ozark. The victims paid for the vehicle by issuing a check for $17,500 to the dealership. A dealership employee and the victim signed a document stating that the vehicle was sold to the victim, along with an agreement for a delayed delivery of the certificate of title. The agreement they signed said that the dealership would provide the vehicle’s title within thirty days of purchase, according to the statement. However, the dealership failed to provide the vehicle’s certificate of title to the victim, and also failed to have the vehicle safety inspection immediately prior to the *****. On March 13, 2025, a special agent spoke with Prisyazhnyuk over the phone, and Prisyazhnyuk admitted that the dealership had not paid ACV Capital the monies owed for the vehicle that had been sold to the victim, even though the dealership received payment for the vehicle. As of the date of the investigator’s report — which was March 25 of 2025 — the dealership had still not provided the victim with a certificate of ownership for the vehicle, nor had they returned the monies paid for the vehicle to the victim. The victim is unable to title or register the vehicle in her name until she is provided a certificate of ownership. The Missouri Department of Revenue, Compliance and Investigation Bureau investigated the case, per the probable cause. Prisyazhnyuk is due in court on Tuesday, Aug. 12, for a hearing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR – OzarksFirst.com. Source link #Ozark #car #dealership #owner #charged #deceptive #business #practice Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Trump Says Harvard Should Have a Limit on International Students – The New York Times Trump Says Harvard Should Have a Limit on International Students – The New York Times Trump Says Harvard Should Have a Limit on International Students The New York TimesHarvard Says Many of Its Foreign Students Are Seeking to Transfer The New York TimesAs Trump targets elite schools, Harvard’s president says they should ‘stand firm’ NPRTrump Says Harvard Should Cap Foreign Students at 15% Bloomberg.comThe Latest: Trump administration to cut $100 million in federal contracts for Harvard Yahoo Source link #Trump #Harvard #Limit #International #Students #York #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

‘Been to two Olympics’: Dragons confirm late switch with Nathan Lawson locked in to make NRL debut ‘Been to two Olympics’: Dragons confirm late switch with Nathan Lawson locked in to make NRL debut Dragons coach Shane Flanagan has confirmed former sevens star Nathan Lawson will make his NRL debut for the club on Friday night after try-scoring machine Christian Tuipulotu was ruled out. Tuipulotu scored seven tries in five matches but hasn’t played since the round 6 win over the Titans when he came off with a hamstring injury having already crossed for a double. The left winger was named to make his return in Friday’s match against the Knights, but the club has decided to play it safe, with Tuipulotu expected to come back next week against the Dolphins. “CT is very close,” Flanagan said. “We could have pushed him if it was a semi-final or something like that. With his history, we told him he was playing all week and we’d get him to the start line, and then we were always going to pull him at the last minute because he’s had that hamstring that has caused a few problems. “Our staff thought it would be better off if he had a really good training week and then get him ready for next week.” The late change has opened the door for Lawson to make his NRL debut after joining the Dragons in the off-season following a decorated sevens career. Lawson went to two Olympics with the *********** side and scored a stack of tries for the national team, with the recruit doing well in his eight games in reserve grade where he scored a hat-trick against Manly last month. “It was interesting with the presentation with his dad and his partner this morning that we presented a jersey to a bloke that’s been to two Olympics and represented Australia numerous times,” Flanagan said. “I think he’s had 25 Test matches and he’s been player of the year, so it was interesting that it’s a reverse cycle that he’s making his debut now in a different code. “He’s really excited about it and I’m really looking forward to him playing. “One thing I know is that he’ll compete really hard.” Maroons winger Valentine Holmes is set to play just 48 hours after the State of Origin opener, with the Dragons looking to build on their fantastic win over the Broncos before last week’s bye. The Red V sit just outside the top eight but have the chance to move up the ladder during the Origin ******* where they’ll be close to full strength. “Every game is important, but in this ******* during Origin, some sides have different issues with a few players away,” their coach said. “We’re not disrupted, so (we have) to keep it simple, prepare well and make sure we’re ready to play during this *******. “After the Origin *******, it’s just a race to the finals. If you get this ******* right then you put yourself in with a chance.” Source link #Olympics #Dragons #confirm #late #switch #Nathan #Lawson #locked #NRL #debut Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

TSA issues warning about smartphones, devices at the airport. Here is what to avoid TSA issues warning about smartphones, devices at the airport. Here is what to avoid In the wake banning portable chargers from checked luggage, TSA has a warning for travelers — and their devices. Anyone who uses USB chargers to power electronics should exercise extreme caution when inside an airport, the TSA says. Here’s what you should know before your next flight. TSA issues warning to travelers who use public USB ports in airports In a Facebook post, TSA warned that USB ports, commonly used to charge cellphones, laptops and other portable devices, can present serious risks, making your sensitive information more vulnerable to hackers and scammers. Passengers are urged to be aware of the risks involved when using the airport’s public USB charging ports. TSA warns passengers not to plug phones or devices directly into a USB port when inside an airport because of a cyber-theft scam called “juice/port jacking.” Using the free USB chargers can allow hackers to access your device, bank account information and more. Bad actors can load malware onto public USB charging stations that are commonly found in airports and hotel lobbies, according to the Federal Communications Commission. What is ‘juice jacking?’ TSA warns of airport USB, Wi-Fi scams “Juice jacking” can happen when bad actors install malware into public USB ports, hoping to acquire sensitive data or ******* a device. “Malware installed through a corrupted USB port can lock a device or export personal data and passwords directly to the perpetrator,” the FCC states. “Criminals can then use that information to access online accounts or sell it to other bad actors.” Similarly, using the airport’s free Wi-Fi can carry cybersecurity risks. TSA says to avoid using the airport’s free public Wi-Fi, especially for any online purchases. “Do not ever enter any sensitive info while using unsecured Wi-Fi,” TSA states. How to avoid ‘juice jacking’ USB port scams at airports Instead of using a public USB charging port, TSA says passengers should use a TSA-compliant power brick or battery pack and plug in their devices through that. The FCC provided additional tips to help prevent falling victim to “juice jacking”: Using AC power outlets can help you avoid any potential risks. Pack AC, car chargers, and your own USB cables with you when traveling. Carry an external battery. Consider carrying a charging-only cable, which prevents data from sending or receiving while charging, from a trusted supplier. If you plug your device into a USB port and a prompt appears asking you to select “share data,” “trust this computer” or “charge only,” always select “charge only.” If you believe you are a victim of a cybercrime or fraud, the FBI recommends filing a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or contacting the airport or local authorities. This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: TSA warning: How to protect phones, devices from hacking at airport Source link #TSA #issues #warning #smartphones #devices #airport #avoid Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Trump administration says it is working to return Guatemalan man who was deported without due process – Politico Trump administration says it is working to return Guatemalan man who was deported without due process – Politico Trump administration says it is working to return Guatemalan man who was deported without due process PoliticoTrump administration says it will fly migrant back to U.S. after judge rules his deportation “ignored” due process CBS NewsTrump administration says it is making plans to return deported Guatemalan man The Washington PostFederal judge refuses to reconsider order to facilitate deportee’s return to US Fox NewsTrump Administration Agrees to Facilitate Return of Guatemalan Man to U.S. The New York Times Source link #Trump #administration #working #return #Guatemalan #man #deported #due #process #Politico Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Green360 uses red mud waste to make game-changing greener cement Green360 uses red mud waste to make game-changing greener cement ASX-listed innovator Green360 Technologies has pulled off a world-first breakthrough by converting red mud – one of the mining industry’s most toxic by-products – into a high-performance, low-carbon building material. The company has successfully developed a proprietary cement blend using red mud and kaolin, which dramatically slashes environmental risks and carbon emissions while retaining the strength and reliability of traditional concrete. Green360 says the product’s performance has exceeded international safety and performance tests. Red mud is a problematic waste left behind after alumina is extracted from bauxite. Every tonne of alumina produces up to 1.5 tonnes of the red sludge, which is loaded with heavy metals and has long created hazardous headache. Laboratory results showed Green260’s production process reduced highly toxic chromium leachate by a whopping 95 per cent and put a complete check on remedial uranium and thorium. Chromium levels came in at just 0.023 and 0.026 milligrams per litre (mg/L), which is well below the 0.5mg/L inert waste threshold, while uranium and thorium were undetectable. These results easily surpassed the European standard for inert waste, putting it on par with clean fill. Adding serious muscle to its green cement credentials, Green360 showed that when 30 per cent of traditional Portland cement was swapped out of a cement mix for its red mud-kaolin blend, the batch still packed a punch, hitting a 28-day compressive strength of 30 megapascals. The company says at that level, the modified cement is still more than 85 per cent of the strength of standard cement, proving the eco-friendly alternative is no lightweight in the commercial arena. The company now plans to scale up testing through a commercial trial with joint venture partner PERMAcast to prove the product across a range of precast concrete applications, such as structural panels and cement pipes. These results are extremely encouraging. We’ve not only addressed a significant environmental challenge by repurposing red mud – a major industrial by-product – but also unlocked its commercial potential in sustainable construction. Alongside PERMAcast, we are rapidly developing alternatives to traditional Portland cement that still perform to commercial standards and are suitable for real-world applications. Green360’s breakthrough is well timed, with the cement industry facing growing pressure to decarbonise. Cement is responsible for up to 8 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions, and the company says its innovation offers a clear path to cleaner production. With strong results, proven safety and a joint venture partner lined up for a commercial rollout, Green360 appears ready to move forward on its mission to disrupt the $500 billion global cement market by converting the industrial red menace into a construction-ready hero. Is your ASX-listed company doing something interesting? Contact: *****@*****.tld Source link #Green360 #red #mud #waste #gamechanging #greener #cement Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Beloved Portland restaurant to hold steak ***** amid temporary closure Beloved Portland restaurant to hold steak ***** amid temporary closure PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A beloved Portland eatery that was forced to temporarily close earlier this year is giving locals the opportunity to take its high-quality beef home. “Find yourself missing RingSide’s signature steaks?” RingSide Steakhouse wrote on Instagram on Tuesday. “Available on our website for preorder now are three different types of our signature Ribeyes. Pickup will be Saturday, June 14th, just in time for Father’s Day!” Some Washington salmon face ‘brink’ of extinction, report finds The acclaimed business is offering four 16-ounce prime ribeyes for $158, four 20-ounce prime 35 day dry-aged bone-in ribeyes for $196 and two 34-ounce prime 35 day dry -aged bone-in ribeyes for $162. Each steak will be raw, frozen and individually packaged. The restaurant’s signature steak seasoning is also available for $6.50. RingSide Steakhouse previously held a drive-up ***** during the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020, the first ***** in its 75-year-history. The event was expected to last from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but it sold out in just two hours. Portland police officers also had to direct drivers as traffic backed up for blocks near the eatery on 2165 W Burnside St. The upcoming preorder ***** follows the steakhouse’s temporary shutdown. It was forced to close for repairs and restoration after a kitchen fire on a Saturday afternoon in early April this year. According to a social media post from the owners, there were no injuries and the fire was quickly contained. The restaurant has yet to reveal when it will reopen. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Source link #Beloved #Portland #restaurant #hold #steak #***** #temporary #closure Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Elden Ring Nightreign review – a giddy and moreish co-op rush | Video Gamer Elden Ring Nightreign review – a giddy and moreish co-op rush | Video Gamer Tom writes: “A tight, confident, deeply replayable, and rewarding co-op rush – our review of FromSoftware’s Elden Ring Nightreign.” Source link #Elden #Ring #Nightreign #review #giddy #moreish #coop #rush #Video #Gamer Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Panthers advance to 3rd straight Stanley Cup Final with Game 5 win against Hurricanes – NHL.com Panthers advance to 3rd straight Stanley Cup Final with Game 5 win against Hurricanes – NHL.com Panthers advance to 3rd straight Stanley Cup Final with Game 5 win against Hurricanes NHL.comPanthers-Hurricanes Game 5 preview: Can Carolina force another game? ESPNShorthanded Panthers make no excuses after Game 4 loss against Carolina denies a clinching chance Yahoo SportsReigning Stanley Cup champion Panthers beat Hurricanes 5-3 in Eastern final CBS NewsThe Florida Panthers are Eastern Conference champions, buy the official championship gear MLive.com Source link #Panthers #advance #3rd #straight #Stanley #Cup #Final #Game #win #Hurricanes #NHL.com Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas embarrassing WhatsApp chat leak was an ‘innocent mistake’ Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas embarrassing WhatsApp chat leak was an ‘innocent mistake’ Liberal MPs have dismissed questions over an embarrassing leak of an internal chat, after a journalist from The West *********** was inadvertently added to a WhatsApp group. Source link #Opposition #Leader #Basil #Zempilas #embarrassing #WhatsApp #chat #leak #innocent #mistake Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

4 Washington cities rank as ‘best places’ to live in nation, US News finds 4 Washington cities rank as ‘best places’ to live in nation, US News finds Four cities in Washington landed on U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Places to Live in 2025-26” list. And one affluent Washington suburb nearly cracked the top 10 cities in the country. Sammamish, outside Bellevue in the greater Seattle area, placed 11th on U.S. News’ latest analysis of the 250 leading places to live in the nation. The media company stated that its rankings took into account each city’s value, economy, quality of life, and desirability. The median home value in Sammamish was $1,185,400 in 2024, much higher than the national average home value of $370,500, according to U.S. News. Still, the outlet said Sammamish “offers a higher value of living compared to similarly sized cities.” The population is about 64,600, and the median age is just shy of 39. Household income in Sammamish also outpaces the national average. The median income in the city is about $235,000, compared to the national average of about $79,500, U.S. News reported. The city’s website touts its “diverse and inclusive community” and charitable giving. “Our community is known for its high quality of life, safety, and beautiful natural surroundings,” the city website states. “With numerous parks and trails, Sammamish is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, or boating, there is something for everyone here.” Sammamish is also a good place to raise a family due to its educational opportunities and relatively safe environment, according to the Sammamish Chamber of Commerce. “The highly-rated schools contribute to the overall quality of life in the community,” the chamber’s website states. Which other Washington cities made the list? Western Washington is well-represented on U.S. News’ top communities to live list. Redmond ranked 86th in the country. Bellevue placed 126th. And Kirkland ranked 133rd. What is the best place to live in the US? According to U.S. News, the best place to live in America in 2025 is Johns Creek, Georgia, a suburb outside Atlanta. The top 10 best places to live in 2025, according to US News Rochester Hills, Michigan This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: US News’ 2025 ‘Best Places to Live’: 4 Washington cities make top 250 Source link #Washington #cities #rank #places #live #nation #News #finds Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trip.com CEO reveals new ‘3E’ travel trends Trip.com CEO reveals new ‘3E’ travel trends ShareShare Article via FacebookShare Article via TwitterShare Article via LinkedInShare Article via Email Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group, discusses how the company is leveraging AI to improve customer experience as she shares the three top emerging travel trends of the year. Source link #Trip.com #CEO #reveals #travel #trends Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

US will ‘aggressively’ revoke visas of ******** students, Rubio says – The Guardian US will ‘aggressively’ revoke visas of ******** students, Rubio says – The Guardian US will ‘aggressively’ revoke visas of ******** students, Rubio says The GuardianTrump appeals court’s tariff block as US cracks down on ******** student visas CNNVIDEO: Trump administration to revoke student visas from ******** students *********** Broadcasting CorporationNew Visa Policies Put America First, Not China U.S. Department of State (.gov)U.S. Will ‘Aggressively’ Revoke Visas of ******** Students, Rubio Says The New York Times Source link #aggressively #revoke #visas #******** #students #Rubio #Guardian Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Massive planned protest across Brisbane’s Story Bridge during peak hour derailed after court blocks demonstration Massive planned protest across Brisbane’s Story Bridge during peak hour derailed after court blocks demonstration A planned protest which would have shut down all six lanes of Brisbane’s Story Bridge during peak hour has been blocked by a court, after police claimed there were major safety concerns and the risk of massive public disruption. The demonstration, scheduled for 8am Friday, was organised by active transport advocates pushing for one vehicle lane to be dedicated to cyclists and pedestrians. But police asked Brisbane Magistrates Court to stop the process due to the risk of safety concerns if the protest were to go ahead. The court sided with the police, finding the demonstration could delay emergency services, interfere with public transport, and compromise safety. Camera IconA planned protest to shut down Brisbane’s Story Bridge during peak hour has been blocked by a court. NewsWire / John Gass Credit: News Corp AustraliaCamera IconProtest signs near the Story Bridge warning drivers of a pending protest which the courts have blocked. Credit: Supplied While protesters won’t be allowed to occupy the bridge at the intended time, organisers say they remain committed to pressuring Brisbane City Council to prioritise active transport access amid ongoing footpath closures. The footpaths on the Story Bridge have been shut since March after inspections uncovered structural issues, including concrete degradation and rusted reinforcements. The council has pledged to reopen the paths once urgent safety works are completed, ahead of a broader restoration project expected to take up to 15 years. An independent committee recently warned that, without a full restoration, the 85-year-old bridge could be unable to carry traffic within two decades. Camera IconThe footpaths on the Story Bridge have been shut since March after inspections uncovered structural issues, including concrete degradation and rusted reinforcements. NewsWire/Tertius Pickard Credit: News Corp Australia The long-term fix is forecast to be beyond council’s financial capacity, prompting discussions around federal funding, tolls, or special levies to foot the bill. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said earlier this week that local infrastructure remains the responsibility of local governments, pushing back on suggestions the Commonwealth should shoulder the restoration costs. However, the federal government has contributed $2.25 million toward a joint business case exploring long-term options for the bridge. Despite the legal setback, protest organiser Kathryn Good said her group would continue advocating for safer and more accessible transport options across the bridge. Source link #Massive #planned #protest #Brisbanes #Story #Bridge #peak #hour #derailed #court #blocks #demonstration Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

South Carolina Supreme Court rejects inmate’s request for more firing squad details South Carolina Supreme Court rejects inmate’s request for more firing squad details COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The South Carolina Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected a request for more information on the firing squad from an inmate set to die next month over concerns about whether a man executed by the method last month suffered a lingering death. The justices unanimously ruled that attorneys for Stephen Stanko did not prove the previous execution was botched even though lawyers argued the firing squad nearly missed the inmate’s heart and prolonged his death. They also said all three bulleted fired may not have hit the prisoner’s body. Stanko, 57, is scheduled to die June 13. He has been sentenced to death twice in the state for two separate murders — one a friend and one his girlfriend as he ****** her daughter. Stanko has until Friday to decide if he wants to die by firing squad, lethal injection or the electric chair. Potential firing squad problems Stanko’s execution is the first scheduled in South Carolina since Mikal Mahdi was put to death by firing squad on April 11. Mahdi’s lawyers released autopsy results that show the shots that killed him barely hit his heart and suggested he was in agonizing pain for three or four times longer than experts say he would have been if his heart had been hit directly. Stanko’s lawyers asked the South Carolina Supreme Court to require prison officials to release more information about the firing squad and lethal injection, saying he was leaning toward the firing squad until the possible problems with Mahdi’s execution surfaced. Mahdi was the second inmate to die in South Carolina by firing squad. Autopsy issues The only photo of Mahdi taken at his autopsy shows two apparent chest wounds. Officials said all three bullets fired by the three volunteer prison employees hit Mahdi, with two going through the same hole. During the state’s first firing squad death, the autopsy found that Brad Sigmon’s heart had been destroyed. Just one of the four chambers of Mahdi’s heart was perforated, which likely meant he didn’t die in the 15 seconds experts predicted he would have if the squad’s aim was true, according to his lawyers. Witnesses said Mahdi, who had a hood over his head, groaned 45 seconds after he was shot. Lawyers for Stanko said Mahdi’s autopsy lacked X-rays, an examination of his clothing or other testing typically done to allow the results — like where a bullet tracked — to be independently verified. South Carolina Supreme Court responds But the state Supreme Court rejected the request for any reports the prison agency produces to review executions, the description of the training the firing squad conducts and the steps taken when an X-ray is done before the shooting to locate the heart. The justices also refused to require prison officials to say if the same members of the firing squad and target placement team used for Mahdi would work on Stanko’s execution. “Appellant has made no showing that Mahdi’s execution was ‘botched’ or that protocols were not followed such that Appellant needs further information to make an informed election of the method of his execution,” the justices wrote. The crimes Stanko is being executed for killing his 74-year-old friend Henry Turner. Stanko went to Turner’s home in April 2006 after lying about his father dying and then shot Turner twice while using a pillow as a silencer, authorities said. Stanko stole Turner’s truck, cleaned out his bank account and then spent the next few days in Augusta, Georgia, where he told people in town for the Masters golf tournament that he owned several ******** restaurants. He stayed with a woman who took him to church. She then called police once she saw his photo and that he was wanted, police said. Hours before killing Turner, Stanko beat and strangled his girlfriend in her home and ****** her daughter before slashing the teen’s throat. The daughter survived and testified against him at one of his trials. “Stephen Stanko is just plain evil. He has in his core down deep inside something that makes him evil. He’s a bad man, he knows it, and he likes it. He doesn’t turn away from it. He will hide it. He’s very, very, very good at hiding it, but you cannot equate evil with insanity,” then-prosecutor Greg Hembree said in his closing statement at one of Stanko’s trials. Hembree later became a state senator and was the chief sponsor of the 2021 law allowing South Carolina to use a firing squad. Source link #South #Carolina #Supreme #Court #rejects #inmates #request #firing #squad #details Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Elon Musk leaving Trump administration, White House official says – Reuters Elon Musk leaving Trump administration, White House official says – Reuters Elon Musk leaving Trump administration, White House official says ReutersElon Musk is leaving the Trump administration after leading effort to slash federal government AP NewsElon Musk Leaving the Trump Administration The InformationElon Musk, Distanced From Trump, Says He’s Exiting Washington and DOGE The New York TimesBack at SpaceX, Musk says in interview DOGE became D.C.’s ‘whipping boy’ The Washington Post Source link #Elon #Musk #leaving #Trump #administration #White #House #official #Reuters Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]