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French Court Approves Extradition of American Accused of 2013 College Rape

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A French court in Metz has ruled that Ian Cleary, a 31-year-old American accused of sexually assaulting a Pennsylvania college student in 2013, can be extradited to the United States. Cleary, who had been the subject of an international search, was arrested in April in Metz after evading authorities for three years.

The case gained notoriety when Cleary allegedly sent a Facebook message to his accuser, Shannon Keeler, in 2021 stating, “So I raped you.” This message, along with persistent efforts by Keeler, led to the issuance of a felony warrant in Pennsylvania.

Cleary, originally from Saratoga, California, was a 20-year-old Gettysburg College student at the time of the alleged assault. The warrant accuses him of stalking Keeler at a party, sneaking into her dorm, and sexually assaulting her while she texted friends for help.

Despite the court’s ruling, Cleary has refused extradition, which may delay but not prevent the process. His case now moves to the French Justice Ministry, which must prepare and submit the extradition order for the French prime minister’s signature. Cleary remains in custody in France during this process.

This case highlights several critical issues:

1. The challenges of prosecuting campus sexual assaults: Keeler’s years-long struggle to have charges filed underscores the difficulties victims face in seeking justice.

2. The role of social media in criminal cases: The Facebook messages allegedly sent by Cleary played a crucial role in reviving the case.

3. International law enforcement cooperation: Cleary’s arrest in France after a three-year search demonstrates the complexities of pursuing fugitives across borders.

4. The impact of media attention on cold cases: The Associated Press’s 2021 story on the reluctance to pursue campus sex crimes preceded the issuance of the arrest warrant.

Shannon Keeler, who has chosen to be publicly identified, stayed at Gettysburg to graduate and helped lead the women’s lacrosse team to a national title. Her persistence in seeking justice highlights the long-term impact of sexual assault on survivors and their determination to hold perpetrators accountable.

As the case moves forward, it continues to draw attention to the broader issues of sexual assault on college campuses and the challenges of prosecuting these crimes. The eventual outcome may have significant implications for how similar cases are handled in the future, both in the United States and internationally.

Hamas Warns Israel’s Gaza City Operations Threaten Cease-Fire Talks

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Hamas has issued a stark warning that Israel’s expanding military operations in Gaza City and the resulting displacement of thousands of residents could have “disastrous repercussions” for ongoing cease-fire negotiations and efforts to release Israeli hostages. This development adds a new layer of complexity to the already fragile peace talks, now in their ninth month since the outbreak of war in Gaza.

Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas’ top political leader, cautioned mediators about the potential “collapse” of negotiations, placing the “full responsibility” on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli army. This statement comes at a critical juncture, just days after both sides appeared to be narrowing gaps in the long-running talks aimed at pausing the fighting.

The current round of cease-fire negotiations in the Gaza Strip was expected to resume this week. However, Hamas’ warning casts a shadow over these prospects. The militant group is demanding an agreement that ensures Israeli troops fully withdraw from Gaza and that the war comes to a definitive end. In contrast, Israel maintains that it cannot halt military operations before Hamas is eliminated, highlighting the significant ideological divide between the two parties.

Key contentious issues in the negotiations include postwar governance and security control of the Gaza enclave. These points of disagreement underscore the complexity of reaching a lasting peace agreement in the region.

The ongoing conflict, which began with Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel, has resulted in devastating consequences. Israeli ground offensives and bombardments have led to over 38,000 deaths in Gaza, according to the territory’s Health Ministry. The war has caused massive destruction across the besieged territory, displacing most of its 2.3 million inhabitants, often multiple times.

Humanitarian conditions in Gaza have deteriorated significantly, with Israeli restrictions, ongoing fighting, and the breakdown of law and order severely hampering aid efforts. This has led to widespread hunger and fears of famine among the population. The situation has drawn international attention, with the top U.N. court ordering Israel to take steps to protect Palestinians as it examines genocide allegations against Israeli leaders – charges Israel strongly denies.

As the conflict approaches its tenth month, the international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough in negotiations that could bring an end to the violence and suffering. However, Hamas’ latest warning suggests that the path to peace remains fraught with challenges, with both sides still far apart on key issues.

The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the cease-fire talks can overcome this latest obstacle or if the conflict will continue to escalate, further complicating efforts to achieve a lasting peace in the region.

AP

Karen Read Defense Team Claims Jurors Unanimously Acquitted Her of Murder, Seeks to Question Jury

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Karen Read’s defense team has made a startling claim regarding the jury’s deliberations in her high-profile trial. According to a motion filed Monday in Norfolk County Superior Court, the lawyers assert that jurors unanimously concluded Read was not guilty of murder or leaving the scene of a deadly accident before the judge declared a mistrial. The defense contends that the jury was only deadlocked on the remaining manslaughter charge.

This revelation comes as Read’s attorneys seek permission from the judge to question all 12 jurors. Their goal is to establish grounds for double jeopardy, potentially preventing the state of Massachusetts from retrying Read on the murder charge. The defense motion is based on information obtained from three jurors who described their conclusions after the trial.

Read faced charges in the January 2022 death of her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe. Prosecutors accused her of striking O’Keefe with her SUV and leaving him to die in a snowstorm. The defense, however, argued that O’Keefe was killed inside the home of another Boston police officer and that Read was framed as a “convenient outsider.

The mistrial was declared on the fifth day of deliberations after the jury reported being hopelessly deadlocked. The defense team criticizes the judge’s handling of the situation, stating that she announced the mistrial without questioning jurors about individual charges or allowing lawyers from either side to comment.

According to the defense motion, one juror informed Read’s attorneys that the jury voted 12-0 to acquit her of second-degree murder and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death. The motion requests these charges be dismissed. The jury was reportedly only split on the charge of manslaughter while operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

The defense team also cited second- and third-hand accounts from two other jurors, both indicating agreement on acquitting Read of second-degree murder. This information forms the basis of their request to question the entire jury.

A significant turning point in the two-month trial came when the lead investigator, State Trooper Michael Proctor, was forced to acknowledge sending offensive texts about Read during the investigation. Following the trial, Massachusetts State Police relieved Proctor of duty and opened an internal affairs investigation.

As the legal drama unfolds, Read’s defense team is leveraging this new information to potentially shield their client from further prosecution on the most serious charges. Their strategy hinges on the principle of double jeopardy, which prohibits a defendant from being tried twice for the same crime.

This development adds another layer of complexity to an already controversial case, raising questions about jury deliberations, the declaration of mistrials, and the rights of defendants in high-profile criminal cases. As the court considers the defense’s motion, the outcome could have significant implications for Read’s future and potentially set a precedent for similar cases in Massachusetts.

abcnews.go.com

Tragic Gas Explosion Claims Lives of Mother and Daughter in Ogun State, Nigeria

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In a heartbreaking incident on Church Street along Èbúté Road in Ibafo, Ogun State, Nigeria a gas explosion claimed the lives of Rafiat Sheriff, aged 40, and her seven-year-old daughter, Asisat, on Saturday evening around 8:30 pm.

According to reports gathered by PUNCH Online, the tragedy unfolded when Rafiat Sheriff instructed her daughter to light the gas cylinder for their evening meal. Sadly, during the process of igniting the cylinder, it erupted into flames, engulfing their home in a devastating fire.

A neighbor named Abiodun, who witnessed the incident, recounted to the police that the entire apartment quickly became engulfed in flames, leading to the tragic deaths of both mother and daughter.

Confirming the incident, Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson for the Nigeria Police, Ogun State Command, expressed sorrow over the loss and disclosed that two other individuals are currently hospitalized, fighting for their lives as a result of the explosion.

The incident occurred last night when the mother instructed her seven-year-old daughter to cook. As the girl attempted to light the gas cylinder, a tragic explosion occurred, resulting in the loss of their lives. Two other individuals, including one of the deceased’s children, are currently receiving medical treatment in the hospital,” stated Odutola.

Despite efforts to respond promptly, the state fire service, according to police documents, did not arrive on the scene. However, Fatai Adefala, the state Director of Fire Service, denied knowledge of the incident and emphasized that no report had been received regarding a gas explosion in the area.

“I am unaware of any gas explosion. There was no such incident reported to our fire service team. We have fire trucks stationed in Ibafo and Isheri, as well as another at the Redeemed Christian Church of God,” clarified Adefala. “There has been no call to our staff regarding a gas explosion incident.”

This tragic event underscores the importance of safety measures when handling gas appliances, and it serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with such everyday tasks.

Punchng

Kenyan Cult Leader Paul Mackenzie Faces Trial for ‘Shakahola Forest Massacre’

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Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, the self-proclaimed pastor and leader of a Kenyan doomsday cult, has begun his trial in Mombasa on terrorism charges related to the deaths of more than 400 of his followers. This macabre case, known as the “Shakahola forest massacre,” has sent shockwaves through Kenya and the international community, bringing attention to the dangers of extreme religious manipulation.

Mackenzie appeared in court on Monday alongside 94 co-defendants. The proceedings quickly took on a secretive air as journalists were removed from the courtroom to allow a protected witness to testify, underscoring the sensitive nature of the case.

The charges against Mackenzie and his associates are severe and multifaceted. While they all pleaded not guilty to terrorism charges in January, they also face additional accusations of murder, manslaughter, kidnapping, and child torture and cruelty in separate cases. These charges paint a disturbing picture of the alleged activities within Mackenzie’s cult.

The scale of the tragedy became apparent as authorities unearthed the remains of more than 440 people in a remote wilderness near the coastal town of Malindi. Autopsies conducted on 100 bodies revealed a horrifying pattern: while starvation appeared to be the primary cause of death – allegedly encouraged by Mackenzie as a way for his followers to “meet Jesus” – some victims, including children, showed signs of strangulation, beating, or suffocation.

Even more disturbing, previous court documents suggested that some bodies had their organs removed, hinting at possibly ritualistic elements to the deaths. This grim detail adds another layer of horror to an already shocking case.

Mackenzie’s arrest in April 2023 marked the beginning of a complex investigation that has unveiled the extent of his influence over his followers. The case has raised serious questions about religious freedom, cult mentality, and the responsibilities of authorities in identifying and preventing such tragedies.

As the trial unfolds, it is expected to shed light on the inner workings of Mackenzie’s cult and the events that led to the mass deaths in Shakahola forest. The proceedings will likely be closely watched both in Kenya and internationally, as they touch on issues of faith, manipulation, and the potential for religious beliefs to be twisted into deadly extremes.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by charismatic leaders who exploit religious beliefs for nefarious purposes. It also highlights the challenges faced by authorities in balancing religious freedom with the need to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and harm.

Self-proclaimed pastor Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, (C) who set up the Good News International Church in 2003 and is accused of inciting cult followers to starve to death “to meet Jesus”, appears at the Shanzu law courts in Mombasa on May 5, 2023. A Kenyan cult leader accused of inciting and possibly forcing his followers to starve themselves to death appeared in court on May 5, 2023 in connection with the deaths of more than 100 people found buried in mass graves. The deeply religious Christian-majority country has been stunned by the discovery of the graves last month near the Indian Ocean coastal town of Malindi, in what has been dubbed the “Shakahola forest massacre”. (Photo by SIMON MAINA / AFP)

As Kenya grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the trial of Paul Mackenzie and his co-defendants may provide some answers and, potentially, a measure of justice for the hundreds of lives lost in the Shakahola forest. However, the true impact of this case on Kenyan society and its approach to regulating religious groups remains to be seen.

Punchng/AFP

First-Year Student Found Dead in Drainage at University of Nigeria Nsukka

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The University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) community has been shaken by the tragic discovery of a first-year student’s lifeless body in a drainage system near the Akanu Ibiam Stadium on the university premises. The incident, which occurred on Friday, July 5, has prompted an immediate response from university authorities and security agencies.

Favour Okenyi, a student in the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, was identified as the deceased. The circumstances surrounding her untimely death remain unclear, leading to a joint investigation by university officials and local law enforcement.

Okwun Omeaku, the Acting Public Relations Officer for UNN, issued a statement on Sunday confirming the incident and expressing the university’s deep shock and sadness. The University Community was shocked on Friday, July 5, by the distressing discovery of a lifeless body found in a drainage near Akanu Ibiam Stadium, UNN,” Omeaku stated.

The university administration has extended heartfelt condolences to Okenyi’s family, acknowledging the loss of a promising young student. In response to this tragedy, UNN officials are taking proactive steps to uncover the full details of the incident and prevent any potential recurrence.

The circumstances surrounding the death are currently under investigation that will aid investigations and fish out perpetrator/s of the evil act,” Omeaku explained. This statement suggests that foul play has not been ruled out, and authorities are exploring all possible angles in their inquiry.

The university’s response emphasizes collaboration between multiple parties. “The management is collaborating with security agencies and the family of the deceased to uncover the circumstances surrounding her death and to prevent any potential recurrence of such incidents in the future,” the statement added. This approach underscores the seriousness with which the university is treating the incident and its commitment to ensuring campus safety.

This tragic event raises important questions about campus security and student safety at Nigerian universities. It highlights the need for increased vigilance and potentially improved safety measures to protect students on and around university grounds.

As the investigation unfolds, the UNN community and Okenyi’s family await answers. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities that can exist even in academic environments and the importance of constant vigilance in maintaining student safety.

The loss of a young life at the beginning of her university journey is particularly poignant, casting a shadow over the usually vibrant atmosphere of campus life. As the university and law enforcement agencies work to uncover the truth behind this tragedy, the broader academic community in Nigeria will likely be watching closely, considering potential implications for campus safety policies across the country.

Punchng.com

Kenyan Court Rules 2022 Shooting of Pakistani Journalist Unlawful, Orders Compensation

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A Kenyan court has ruled that the 2022 shooting death of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif by police in Nairobi was unlawful and unconstitutional. The verdict, delivered by Justice Stella Mutuku in Nairobi on Monday, marks a significant development in a case that has drawn international attention and raised concerns about press freedom and police accountability.

The court’s decision not only deemed the shooting unlawful but also criticized Kenya’s attorney general and the director of public prosecutions for their laxity in investigating the incident. This ruling comes in response to a case filed by Sharif’s widow, Javeria Siddique, in collaboration with Kenyan journalists’ unions.

Sharif, a 50-year-old journalist, had fled Pakistan earlier in 2022 to avoid arrest on charges of maligning Pakistan’s national institutions. His death on October 23, 2022, occurred when police opened fire on his vehicle at a roadblock checkpoint near Nairobi. The incident initially sparked controversy, with Kenyan police initially attributing the shooting to “mistaken identity” during a search for a similar car involved in a child abduction case.

However, Sharif’s family has accused an elite Kenyan police unit of intentionally killing the journalist. This claim gained further credence when a panel of Pakistani investigators concluded in December 2022 that Sharif’s death was a “planned assassination.” Their report suggested that the fatal bullet was fired from either inside the car or at close range, contradicting the initial police account.

In a significant move, the Kenyan court has ordered the government to compensate Sharif’s family with 10 million Kenyan shillings (approximately $78,000). Additionally, the court has directed Kenyan authorities to conclude their investigation into the officers involved in the shooting. To date, none of the police officers linked to the incident have been arrested or charged.

Dudley Ochiel, the lawyer representing Sharif’s widow, hailed the ruling as “a big win for the man’s family and friends in Kenya, Pakistan and all over the world.” Ochiel expressed his expectation that the public prosecutor would now file a case against the two officers suspected of fatally shooting Sharif at the roadblock.

The killing of Arshad Sharif sent shockwaves through Pakistan, with thousands attending his funeral. The Pakistani government has maintained that no state institution was involved in his death, a claim that continues to be scrutinized in light of the ongoing investigations and court rulings.

Javeria Siddique, while acknowledging that the ruling cannot bring her husband back, expressed satisfaction that “at least now everyone knows that he was killed intentionally.” Her statement underscores the importance of this ruling in seeking justice and transparency in a case that has raised questions about cross-border politics, press freedom, and police conduct.

This court decision not only provides a measure of closure for Sharif’s family but also sets a precedent for holding law enforcement accountable for extrajudicial killings. It highlights the ongoing challenges faced by journalists working in politically sensitive environments and the importance of international cooperation in investigating crimes against members of the press.

As the case continues to unfold, with expectations of further legal proceedings against the involved police officers, it remains a focal point for discussions on press freedom, state accountability, and the safety of journalists operating across international borders.

The Associated Press

Hurricane Beryl Batters Texas Coast: Live Updates and Extensive Travel Disruptions

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Hurricane Beryl made a forceful landfall on the Texas coast near Matagorda at approximately 4am CDT Monday, intensifying to a Category 1 hurricane just before reaching land. The storm, now moving inland across eastern Texas, is unleashing a trifecta of threats: heavy rainfall, strong winds, and life-threatening storm surge along the Gulf Coast.

The National Hurricane Center reports that Beryl is maintaining maximum sustained winds of 75 mph (120 km/h) as it traverses inland. The storm’s impact was immediately felt, with over 200,000 Texan customers losing power within hours of landfall. Tragically, officials have confirmed one fatality in Humble, Texas, where a falling tree caused a house to collapse.

Acting Texas Governor Dan Patrick has taken swift action, declaring 120 counties as disaster areas in anticipation of Beryl’s destructive path. The governor warned that Beryl “will be a deadly storm,” underscoring the gravity of the situation. In response to the imminent threat, school systems, airports, and major oil shipping operations across the region have suspended activities for Monday.

The National Hurricane Center has issued stark warnings about the dangers posed by Beryl. Of particular concern is the risk of life-threatening storm surge inundation along the Texas coast from Mesquite Bay to Sabine Pass, including Matagorda Bay and Galveston Bay. Residents in these areas are strongly urged to heed evacuation orders and follow the advice of local officials.

Meteorologist Colin McCarthy highlighted the exceptional nature of Beryl, stating, “We have never seen such a strong hurricane this early in the season.” This unprecedented strength has caught many off guard, amplifying the potential for widespread damage and disruption.

The storm’s impact on travel has been severe and far-reaching. Major airports across Texas, including George Bush Intercontinental and Hobby airports in Houston, have cancelled hundreds of flights. British Airways has been forced to cancel its London Heathrow-Houston services for Monday, while other affected airports include Austin, Corpus Christi, Harlingen, McAllen, and San Antonio.

In response to the crisis, airlines are offering flexible rebooking options to affected passengers. Southwest Airlines, which is based in Texas, is allowing passengers booked up to July 9 to rebook or travel standby within 14 days of their original travel date without additional charges. Delta is offering free changes for travel through July 12, while United and American Airlines have extended their travel waiver period to July 16.

The UK Foreign Office has issued a travel advisory for the region, urging people to “follow and monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Center and follow the advice of local authorities including any evacuation orders.”

As Beryl continues its inland journey, the National Hurricane Center warns of additional hazards, including considerable flash and urban flooding through Monday night across portions of the middle and upper Texas Gulf Coast and eastern Texas. There is also a risk of isolated major river flooding and the potential for tornadoes.

The timing of Beryl’s arrival is particularly unfortunate, coinciding with a peak travel period in the region. Christina Tunnah, general manager of Americas for World Nomads, advises travelers whose plans have been disrupted to first contact their airlines or travel providers, as they may offer assistance.

As Hurricane Beryl pushes further inland, authorities are now focusing on rescue and recovery efforts. The storm’s impact on Texas and neighboring states is expected to be significant and long-lasting, with the potential for extended power outages, widespread flooding, and substantial property damage in the days to come. Residents and travelers in the affected areas are advised to remain vigilant, stay informed about local conditions, and prioritize personal safety above all else.

Independent.co.uk

Former ‘Big Brother’ Contestant Autumn Daly Arrested for Theft in Texas-TMZ

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Autumn Daly, a contestant from the second season of “Big Brother” in 2001, has been arrested on theft charges in Lewisville, Texas. TMZ reports that the arrest occurred last month when police tracked Daly to her local retail store, Encore! Encore!

According to law enforcement, Daly was arrested on an outstanding warrant for theft. When approached by an officer and asked about any warrants, Daly reportedly confirmed their existence, stating she was in the process of addressing them. Despite her claim, police proceeded with the arrest.

The charge against Daly is property theft between $30,000 and $150,000, stemming from an alleged incident in 2023. She was released after posting a $2,500 bond. Details about the specific nature of the theft remain undisclosed, with police citing an ongoing investigation.

Responding to the arrest, Daly provided a statement to TMZ, claiming the charges are retaliatory. “It’s a retaliation attempt on the part of a former business associate who sued me in civil court and lost,” she stated. Daly added that she believes the charges “won’t stick” and mentioned her own plans to sue for $500,000, declining to comment further due to the pending legal action.

Daly gained public recognition during her brief stint on “Big Brother 2”, where she was the third contestant eliminated after nearly three weeks in the house. The season was ultimately won by Dr. Will Kirby.

This incident highlights the often complex post-reality TV lives of contestants, where public recognition can intersect with personal and legal challenges. As the investigation continues, the case draws attention to the enduring public interest in former reality show participants and the potential long-term impacts of brief television fame.

The arrest of a former “Big Brother” contestant for alleged theft serves as a reminder of the unpredictable trajectories that reality TV participants may face years after their time in the spotlight. As Daly contests the charges and pursues her own legal action, the story underscores the ongoing fascination with the lives of reality TV alumni and the sometimes tumultuous aftermath of their fifteen minutes of fame.

Kenyans Honor Protest Victims with Commemorative Concert in Nairobi

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Hundreds of Kenyans gathered in Nairobi’s Uhuru Park for a poignant concert commemorating the victims of recent anti-government protests. The event, held on Saba Saba Day, honored at least 39 people killed during demonstrations that began on June 18, sparked by planned tax hikes and calls for President William Ruto’s resignation.

The concert, featuring local artists, saw attendees holding placards with messages like “RIP Comrades” and “We promise we’ll keep fighting.” The crowd chanted “Ruto must go” while some participants hammered crosses into the ground, symbolizing the lives lost during the unrest.

Activist Boniface Mwangi, present at the event, expressed mixed emotions: “The government is listening now because of the protests. So we’re kind of happy, but there’s also a lot of sadness because so many people died for the government to listen.” He emphasized the importance of standing with the families of those who lost their lives.

The significance of Saba Saba Day adds historical context to the gathering. The date marks the beginning of protests in 1990 that ultimately forced the government of Daniel arap Moi to reintroduce multi-party politics in Kenya.

Recent weeks have seen intense clashes between protesters and police, with authorities using tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds. The police reported arresting over 270 individuals suspected of criminal activities during the rallies.

In response to mounting pressure, President Ruto scrapped a controversial finance bill that would have introduced new taxes, which critics argued would have further increased the cost of living. On Friday, he proposed additional austerity measures, including reducing the number of his advisers and dissolving 47 state corporations, aimed at addressing the budget gap created by withdrawing the tax hikes.

Ruto expressed optimism about these changes, stating, “I believe these changes will set our country on a trajectory towards economic transformation.” However, the concert and ongoing tensions highlight the deep-seated concerns many Kenyans have about the country’s economic and political direction.

As Kenya grapples with these challenges, the commemorative concert serves as both a tribute to those who lost their lives and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for economic justice and political accountability in the nation.

Source: aljazeera.com

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