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Judge Sets Trump Sentencing for Jan. 10, Promises No Jail Time

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In a rare legal move, Judge Juan M. Merchan scheduled President-elect Donald Trump’s sentencing in his hush money case for January 10, just 10 days before Trump’s inauguration, while signaling he will impose no jail time. 

Merchan, who oversaw Trump’s trial, indicated in a written decision that he plans to sentence the former and future president to a conditional discharge, a resolution where the case is dismissed if the defendant avoids rearrest. 

Trump’s legal troubles stem from his May conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records. The charges relate to an alleged scheme to conceal a $130,000 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in the final weeks of Trump’s 2016 campaign. The payment was allegedly made to prevent Daniels from publicizing claims of a past sexual encounter with Trump, which he has denied, asserting her story is false and that he committed no wrongdoing. 

The timing of the sentencing adds another layer of complexity to an unprecedented case involving a sitting president-elect. 

Following Trump’s reelection on November 5, Merchan halted proceedings and postponed sentencing indefinitely, allowing both the defense and prosecution to present their arguments on how to proceed given Trump’s impending presidency. 

Trump’s legal team argued for the case to be dismissed, citing concerns that the conviction could cause unconstitutional disruptions to the president-elect’s ability to govern. 

Prosecutors, while acknowledging the need for accommodations due to Trump’s upcoming role as president, insisted that the conviction remain intact. 

Prosecutors presented several options, including freezing the case during Trump’s term or guaranteeing a no-jail sentence. They also floated an unconventional resolution: formally closing the case while maintaining a record of Trump’s conviction and pending appeal. This approach is inspired by procedures in some state courts for defendants who die while appealing their cases. 

Judge Merchan’s decision to impose a conditional discharge avoids immediate incarceration and allows Trump to assume office on January 20 without the looming threat of imprisonment. However, the conviction will likely remain a contentious issue as Trump begins his second term. 

Trump’s legal team has not indicated whether they will continue to pursue appeals or seek additional remedies to clear the conviction. 

AP

UPDATED: Mike Johnson Reelected House Speaker in Dramatic Floor Vote Amid Republican Divisions 

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Republican Mike Johnson secured reelection as House Speaker on Friday in a high-stakes first ballot vote, overcoming opposition from hardline GOP members and bolstered by a public endorsement from President-elect Donald Trump. 

The vote followed a tumultuous week for the 119th Congress, underscoring the challenges Johnson faces as he leads a deeply divided Republican Party with one of the slimmest majorities in modern history. 

Johnson’s path to reelection was far from smooth. Early in the roll call, Representatives Tom Massie (R-Ky.), Keith Self (R-Texas), and Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) withheld their support, joining a contingent of GOP hardliners who gathered in the back of the House chamber. Some declined to vote, while others cast ballots for alternative candidates. 

However, Johnson managed to flip two of the dissenting votes, securing applause from his Republican colleagues as he crossed the threshold needed for reelection. 

Johnson’s reelection ensures a functioning House as the GOP takes unified control of Washington. Yet the divisions laid bare during the vote signal potential turbulence for advancing President-elect Trump’s ambitious agenda, which includes tax cuts and mass deportations in the first 100 days. 

The House speakership election, a constitutional prerequisite to conducting legislative business, delayed the swearing-in of new members and cast uncertainty over the planned certification of Trump’s 2024 presidential victory on January 6. 

“No speaker’s perfect,” said GOP Conference Chair Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), who nominated Johnson. “But the goal is to make progress toward shared priorities for the country.” 

Democrats, meanwhile, rallied behind their leader, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), presenting him as a steady hand in contrast to Republican “chaos and dysfunction.” 

Johnson assumes his role with a precarious majority of 219-215, requiring near-unanimous support from Republicans to advance legislation. The resignation of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) has further reduced the margin. 

Notable holdouts like Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) initially criticized Johnson for GOP leadership’s handling of key issues, including the year-end spending bill. Roy ultimately supported Johnson, but other far-right members, including Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), voted for alternative candidates. 

Johnson has already made concessions to appease both centrist and conservative factions, including a rule change requiring nine members of the majority party to back any resolution to oust the speaker—a move to avoid a repeat of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s ouster. 

The opening of the new Congress also marked historic milestones. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) became the first two Black women to serve in the Senate simultaneously. 

In the House, Sarah McBride (D-Del.) became the first openly transgender member of Congress, while Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi returned to Washington following hip replacement surgery. 

Johnson’s leadership will be tested as he aligns the House with Trump’s agenda. The speaker described himself as the “quarterback” to Trump’s “coach,” emphasizing the urgency of a unified GOP to prevent a constitutional crisis on January 6, when Congress is required to certify the electoral votes. 

As the session began, Vice President Kamala Harris swore in new senators, while Johnson prepared the House for what promises to be a contentious term with the GOP at the helm. 

Air Zimbabwe Employee Arrested for Stealing Jet Fuel From Grounded Plane

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A 49-year-old Air Zimbabwe employee has been arrested for allegedly stealing Jet A1 fuel from a grounded aircraft at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport. 

The accused, identified as Jacob Mutemeri, reportedly drained fuel from an Air Zimbabwe Boeing 737, nicknamed “Mbuya Nehanda.” The aircraft, which had arrived from Botswana on November 8, 2024, was parked in the airline’s Engine Run Section for maintenance due to a reported fuel leak. At the time, the plane contained 6.3 tonnes of jet fuel. 

According to prosecutors, Mutemeri began siphoning the fuel on November 15, 2024. Using an Air Zimbabwe Nissan Navara, he allegedly accessed the hangar under the cover of darkness, filled containers with fuel, and exited through Gate A3. The theft reportedly continued on November 16 and November 18. 

The theft was uncovered during maintenance work on November 22, 2024, when technicians identified the missing fuel and reported the incident to authorities. Mutemeri was later arrested and charged with theft. 

Mutemeri appeared before a Harare magistrate and was granted bail of $150. He is scheduled to return to court on January 23, 2025, to face the charges. 

The incident has raised concerns over airport security and the safety of grounded aircraft. 

Kanye West and Bianca Censori Share Intimate Maldives Vacation Photos

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Rapper Kanye West, 47, and wife Bianca Censori, 29, have shared revealing vacation photos from their winter getaway in the Maldives. West posted several intimate shots to his Instagram Stories, showing the couple in their luxury suite’s walk-in closet.

West appeared noticeably slimmer in the mirror selfies, wearing an all-black ensemble of t-shirt, loose trousers, and boots. The rapper was also spotted DJing at the resort, notably playing Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off” despite their past public feud.

The vacation posts emerged as West’s ex-wife Kim Kardashian shared Christmas photographs with their four children – North, 11, Saint, 9, Chicago, 6, and Psalm, 5. The couple has been married for two years following West’s highly publicized divorce from Kardashian.

Gang Members Suspected in 2020 Southern California Marijuana Grow Killings

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Authorities believe gang members of Laotian descent were involved in the 2020 killings of seven people at an illegal marijuana grow in Aguanga, a rural community in Southern California, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department said.

Investigators have identified a dark-colored, mid-size SUV thought to have been used during the targeted attack. Officials plan to provide further details about the case during a news conference on Friday.

The shooting claimed the lives of seven Laotian individuals. Six victims were found dead at the scene, and a seventh died later at a hospital. More than 20 people lived on the property, which featured makeshift dwellings, a nursery, and a large-scale illegal marijuana operation.

Authorities recovered over 1,000 marijuana plants and several hundred pounds of processed marijuana at the site. Despite California legalizing recreational marijuana in 2018, the illicit market has remained strong, with many consumers avoiding high taxes on legal cannabis by turning to illegal sources.

Aguanga, located about 50 miles northeast of San Diego, is a remote area known for its horse ranches and dirt roads. The killings shocked the small, quiet community and highlighted ongoing issues with unlicensed marijuana cultivation in the state.

JLo Celebrates New Year in Aspen with Bold Bikini Photos Post-Divorce

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Jennifer Lopez, 55, marked the New Year in Aspen by sharing striking bikini photos on social media Thursday, displaying her signature physique while vacationing following her recent divorce from Ben Affleck. The singer posed in a string bikini accessorized with a cowboy hat and fur snow boots.

The vacation photos showcase Lopez celebrating with an intimate group including her mother Guadalupe, sister Lynda, manager Benn Medina, and various entertainment industry professionals. Her “We’ll be back Aspen” caption garnered enthusiastic fan responses praising her styling choices and appearance.

The posts come months after Lopez’s divorce filing from Ben Affleck in August, citing “irreconcilable differences.” The couple’s relationship spanned two decades, beginning with their first engagement in 2002, followed by a 2004 split.

They rekindled their romance in 2021, marrying twice in 2022 – first eloping in Las Vegas before hosting a white-themed ceremony at Affleck’s Georgia estate.

Their recent separation marks the end of their highly publicized reunion, dubbed “Bennifer” by media and fans. Lopez has moved forward with holiday celebrations amid the ongoing divorce proceedings.

Preview: Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Arsenal – Prediction, Team News, Lineups

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Brighton & Hove Albion host Arsenal at the Amex Stadium this Saturday in a crucial Premier League encounter.

Arsenal head to the South Coast after a commanding 3-1 win over Brentford, marking their first game of the year. Meanwhile, Brighton fought back for a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa, extending their streak of draws to three matches. 

Arsenal Aim to Sustain Title Charge

Mikel Arteta’s side continues their pursuit of league leaders Liverpool, who maintain a six-point advantage with a game in hand. Arsenal, unbeaten in 12 matches across all competitions, hope to extend their recent dominance despite challenges in away fixtures. 

Their recent victory over Brentford showcased a rejuvenated Gabriel Jesus, while goals from Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli sealed the three points. However, Arsenal’s defensive inconsistencies on the road remain an area of concern, as they look to clinch their first away win since their Champions League demolition of Sporting Lisbon in November.

Brighton Struggling for Form

Brighton, on the other hand, has faltered in their campaign, enduring a seven-match winless streak. Fabian Hurzeler’s squad remains mid-table, five points shy of the Europa League qualification spots. Their recent draws against Aston Villa, West Ham, and Brentford highlight their knack for resilience but lack of cutting-edge performances. 

Tariq Lamptey’s stunning equalizer against Villa was a rare bright spot for the Seagulls, who have played out more draws than any other Premier League side this season.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Arsenal face a defensive dilemma following Jurrien Timber’s suspension, leaving Arteta without recognized right-backs. Thomas Partey is expected to fill in as a makeshift defender, allowing the return of Declan Rice or Kai Havertz in midfield. Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling remain unavailable, but Ethan Nwaneri could feature again after his impressive debut. 

Brighton hope to see Pervis Estupinan return after illness, while Adam Webster faces a late fitness test. However, Danny Welbeck, Evan Ferguson, and Mats Wieffer remain sidelined. New signing Diego Gomez will not be available for this clash.

Brighton & Hove Albion Predicted XI:

Verbruggen; Lamptey, Dunk, Van Hecke, Estupinan; Baleba, O’Riley; Adingra, Rutter, Mitoma; Pedro 

Arsenal Predicted XI:

Raya; Partey, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Martinelli, Jesus, Trossard 

Prediction: Brighton 1-3 Arsenal

Brighton’s defensive vulnerabilities and Arsenal’s offensive strength make for an engaging contest. While Brighton’s attack can exploit Arsenal’s weaknesses on the road, the Gunners’ form and firepower should secure a convincing victory.

British Woman and fiancé Found Dead in Vietnamese Villa

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A British woman and her South African fiancé were found dead in a holiday villa in Hoi An, a coastal city in central Vietnam, authorities confirmed. 

Greta Marie Otteson, 33, was discovered on a bed in a first-floor room at the villa on Dec. 26 around 11:18 a.m. local time (0418 GMT), police said Monday. Els Arno Quinton, 36, was found in another room of the villa, reportedly locked from the inside. 

The UK Foreign Office confirmed it is in contact with local authorities and providing support to Otteson’s family. Otteson worked as a social media manager, and Quinton was a musician and livestreamer. 

The couple announced their engagement in a video posted on Instagram by videography company Red Eye Studios on Dec. 11. They had registered as long-term temporary residents at the Hoa Chuong villa in the Cam Thanh commune since last summer, according to officials. 

Preliminary police inspections found no signs of external injuries or burglary. Local media reported that several empty wine bottles were discovered at the scene. The investigation into the cause of death is ongoing. 

“We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died in Vietnam and are in contact with the local authorities,” a UK Foreign Office spokesperson said. 

Liverpool vs. Manchester United Preview: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups

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Liverpool will host long-time rivals Manchester United at Anfield this Sunday in a much-anticipated Premier League clash. The Reds, under Arne Slot’s guidance, are soaring as title favorites, holding an imposing 23-point lead over a struggling Manchester United side led by Ruben Amorim. 

While Liverpool’s march toward stardom continues, Manchester United teeters on the edge, nervously looking over their shoulders at the relegation zone. 

Liverpool’s Dominance:

Liverpool closed 2024 in style, demolishing West Ham United with a 5-0 victory at the London Stadium. Goals from Luis Díaz, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Diogo Jota, Mohamed Salah, and Cody Gakpo capped off a dominant display. This win extended Liverpool’s unbeaten streak to 23 matches across all competitions, a run that stretches back to their solitary loss to Nottingham Forest in mid-September. 

Currently leading the Premier League table by six points over Arsenal, with a game in hand, Liverpool’s form at Anfield has been particularly formidable. They boast the best home record in the league, having overtaken Brentford in this regard, and have scored at least two goals in their last 11 Premier League games. 

Despite a brief lapse in defensive stability over the festive period, Liverpool restored order with a clean sheet against West Ham. Slot’s men will aim to continue their ruthless form against their bitter rivals on Sunday. 

Manchester United’s Struggles:

On the other hand, Manchester United enters the match amid a disastrous run of form. A 2-0 loss to Newcastle United on December 30 marked their fourth consecutive defeat, leaving the team in 14th place, just seven points clear of the relegation zone. 

United’s problems have been stark: three straight home league losses, failure to score in their last three games, and the looming threat of a fourth consecutive Premier League defeat without scoring—a scenario not seen in over a century. 

The pressure on Ruben Amorim continues to mount, as breaking unwanted records has become a theme during his short tenure. However, United’s recent history against Liverpool is not entirely bleak. The Red Devils have avoided defeat in three of their last four encounters, including a 0-0 draw at Anfield last season. 

Team News:

Liverpool:

Joe Gomez is sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Ibrahima Konaté (knee) and Conor Bradley (thigh) have returned to training but may not be match-fit. Jarell Quansah is expected to partner Virgil van Dijk in central defense. Dominik Szoboszlai is set to return from suspension, vying for a midfield spot alongside Curtis Jones, who assisted Mohamed Salah’s 17th league goal of the season. 

Predicted Liverpool XI:

Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Díaz 

Manchester United:

Manuel Ugarte and Bruno Fernandes are available after serving suspensions, while Marcus Rashford could feature after returning to the squad. Mason Mount (thigh), Victor Lindelöf (unspecified), and Luke Shaw (calf) remain unavailable. Joshua Zirkzee is likely to be dropped after a poor outing against Newcastle, with Kobbie Mainoo expected to start. 

Predicted Manchester United XI:

Onana; Yoro, Maguire, Martinez; Mazraoui, Mainoo, Ugarte, Dalot; Diallo, Fernandes; Højlund 

Prediction:

Liverpool 3-0 Manchester United

Disjointed in attack and fragile at the back, Manchester United is likely to struggle against Liverpool’s relentless pressing and attacking prowess. While the expected return of Fernandes, Mainoo, and Ugarte may bolster the visitors slightly, it is difficult to envision anything other than a comfortable Liverpool victory. 

Liverpool’s title ambitions should receive another boost, while United’s woes deepen, further threatening their Premier League status. 

7-Year-Old Zimbabwean Boy Survives 5 Days in Lion-Inhabited Game Park

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A 7-year-old boy survived five harrowing days in Zimbabwe’s Matusadona Game Park, home to lions, elephants, and other wild animals, after wandering away from his home, officials said. 

The boy, identified as Tinotenda Pudu, traveled at least 23 kilometers (14 miles) into the perilous game park, according to Mashonaland West MP Mutsa Murombedzi, who detailed the incident on social media. The park is known for its dense lion population, with about 40 lions inhabiting the area. 

Tinotenda endured five days sleeping on rocky perches surrounded by roaring lions and passing elephants. He survived by eating wild fruits and digging small wells into dry riverbeds with a stick to access drinking water — a survival skill common in the drought-prone region. 

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority confirmed the incident to the BBC, though officials said the boy was seven years old and had walked 49 kilometers (30 miles) from his home, contrary to earlier reports. 

“The young boy demonstrated incredible survival skills and knowledge of the wild, which ultimately saved his life,” Murombedzi said. 

Members of the Nyaminyami community launched a search effort, beating drums daily to help guide the boy back home. Despite their efforts, it was park rangers who ultimately found him. 

On the fifth day, Tinotenda heard a ranger’s vehicle and ran toward it but narrowly missed being seen. Undeterred, the rangers spotted fresh human footprints and tracked him until they found him. 

“This was probably his last chance of being rescued after five days in the wilderness,” Murombedzi added. 

Matusadona Game Park spans more than 1,470 square kilometers (570 square miles) and is home to zebras, elephants, hippos, lions, and antelope. Once, it boasted one of Africa’s highest lion population densities, according to African Parks. 

Social Media Reaction 

The boy’s survival story has drawn widespread praise on social media, with many lauding his resilience and resourcefulness. 

“This is beyond human comprehension,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter). 

Another said, “He’s going to have one hell of a story to tell when he gets back to school.” 

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