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Karen Read’s Attorney Alan Jackson Seen with Wife Following Client Canoodling Controversy

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Alan Jackson, the high-profile attorney representing Karen Read in her recent murder trial, was seen with his wife, Lisa Kassabian, in Los Angeles on Wednesday. This public appearance comes just hours after The New York Post published images that appeared to show Jackson in an intimate embrace with his client, Karen Read, outside a Boston steakhouse last week.

Karen Read’s attorney Alan Jackson and his wife Lisa Kassabian seen together in a car at their Los Angeles home.Toby Canham for NY Post

Jackson and Kassabian, an LA County Deputy District Attorney, were photographed arriving at their home in one of their BMW SUVs after apparently visiting the gym and picking up lunch. Kassabian, dressed in workout attire, was noticeably not wearing a wedding ring as she carried bags from the car. Jackson, holding his phone and what appeared to be takeout food, kept his eyes down and maintained a neutral expression.

Read’s case ended in a mistrial on Monday after Jackson argued that she’d been framed by her boyfriend’s cop buddiesAP

The couple’s appearance marks their first public sighting since The Post revealed a 1.5-second iPhone Live image that seemed to show Jackson embracing Read from behind outside Smith and Wollensky in downtown Boston on June 27. This occurred while jurors were deliberating in Read’s murder trial.

A photo from late June appeared to show Jackson embracing Karen Read.Obtained by New York Post

The image, which The Post verified through metadata analysis, showed Jackson with one arm around Read’s midsection and another across her chest, pulling her close as she appeared to giggle. A source close to Read told TMZ that the image was “taken out of context” and was merely “goofing around” after a dinner with the legal team.

ackson’s wife Lisa Kassabian appeared to have no ring on.Toby Canham for NY Post

Read was on trial for allegedly running down her boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, in 2022 and leaving him to die in a snowbank. Jackson’s defense strategy argued that Read was framed by local police. The trial ended in a mistrial on Monday when the jury became hopelessly deadlocked.

Attorney Alan Jackson was seen at his LA home on Thursday.Toby Canham for NY Post

The photographer who captured the controversial image told The Post, “It looked wrong and inappropriate so I just grabbed the closest phone and took a picture,” adding that it seemed “inappropriate for an attorney-client type situation.”

Neither Jackson nor Read have responded to requests for comment from The Post. This incident adds another layer of complexity to the high-profile case and raises questions about professional boundaries in attorney-client relationships.

It was the couple’s first appearance together since The Post published photos of Jackson appearing to canoodle with his client Read in Boston.Toby Canham for NY Post

Jackson, a former prosecutor turned defense attorney, has previously represented other high-profile clients including Kevin Spacey and Harvey Weinstein. The Karen Read case and its aftermath continue to draw public attention, highlighting issues of legal ethics and the intense scrutiny faced by those involved in high-profile criminal cases.

Source:nypost.com

Flight to New Hampshire Diverted After Passenger Exposes Himself and Urinates in Aisle

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A flight bound for Manchester, New Hampshire, was unexpectedly diverted to Buffalo, New York, on Wednesday following a disturbing incident involving a passenger who allegedly exposed himself and urinated in the airplane’s aisle. The incident led to the arrest of a 25-year-old Oregon man, who now faces federal charges for indecent exposure.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York, the man was taken into custody after the American Eagle flight made an emergency landing at Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Following an initial appearance in federal court in Buffalo, the accused was released.

The passenger reportedly told officers that he was traveling from Portland, Oregon, to Manchester, with a layover in Chicago. He admitted to consuming several whiskey and cola drinks before boarding the flight in Portland, during his layover in Chicago, and after boarding the connecting flight. The man claimed he got up to use the restroom but has a medical urination problem, as stated in the criminal complaint.

American Airlines, the parent company of American Eagle, confirmed the incident in an emailed statement. The airline expressed gratitude to their team members for their professionalism and to the other passengers for their understanding during the unexpected situation. The flight resumed its journey to Manchester shortly after the disruptive passenger was removed.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges airlines face with passenger behavior, particularly when alcohol is involved. It also underscores the serious legal consequences that can result from disruptive or indecent conduct on flights.

The case is now in the hands of federal authorities, with the accused likely to face further legal proceedings. NBC News reported that they have sought comment from the man’s federal public defender, but no response had been received at the time of reporting.

As air travel continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible passenger behavior and the potential consequences of misconduct during flights.

Hezbollah Launches Massive Attack on Israel, Escalating Border Conflict

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Hezbollah fighters rise their group's flag and shout slogans, as they attend the funeral procession of Hezbollah fighter, Bilal Nemr Rmeiti, who was killed by Israeli shelling, during his funeral procession in Majadel village, south Lebanon, Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, launched a significant attack against Israel on Thursday, firing over 200 rockets and a swarm of drones at 10 Israeli military sites. This escalation comes in retaliation for Israel’s killing of Hezbollah commander Mohammed Nasser in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, marking a dangerous new phase in the ongoing border conflict.

Hezbollah fighters

The Israeli military confirmed that approximately 200 projectiles and over 20 suspicious aerial targets were identified crossing from Lebanon into Israeli territory. While some were intercepted by air defenses and fighter jets, the attack set off fires due to drones and interceptor shrapnel. Remarkably, Israel’s ambulance service reported no casualties.

In response, the Israeli air force struck Hezbollah military structures in the Lebanese villages of Ramyeh and Houla. The conflict, which has been steadily intensifying for months, has raised fears of a full-scale war, despite both sides indicating they want to avoid such an outcome.

The violence has extended beyond the immediate border area, with sonic booms from Israeli jets rattling nerves in Beirut and other parts of Lebanon for the second consecutive day. This psychological warfare adds to the growing tension in the region.

Hashem Safieddine, a senior Hezbollah official, warned of further escalation, stating that the group would target new sites “that the enemy did not imagine would be hit.” This threat of widening the conflict has heightened concerns among international observers and diplomats working to prevent a larger confrontation.

The United States is leading diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the fighting, with Amos Hochstein, a senior U.S. official, discussing French and American efforts to restore calm with French officials. However, Hezbollah has stated it will not cease fire as long as Israel continues its offensive in the Gaza Strip.

The ongoing hostilities have taken a heavy toll on both sides of the border, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee their homes. Since October 7, when Hezbollah began firing at Israeli targets in support of Hamas, Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed more than 300 Hezbollah fighters and about 90 civilians. Conversely, fire from Lebanon has killed 18 Israeli soldiers and 10 civilians.

As diplomatic efforts continue, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has stated that while Israel prefers a negotiated arrangement, its forces are hitting Hezbollah “very hard every day” and are prepared to take any necessary action against the group.

This latest escalation underscores the volatile nature of the Lebanon-Israel border and the potential for the conflict to expand beyond its current boundaries, posing a significant challenge to regional stability and international peace efforts.

Source: Reuters

Britons Head to Polls in General Election Expected to Usher in Labour Landslide

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Britons are casting their votes today in a parliamentary election that is widely expected to bring Keir Starmer’s Labour Party to power, potentially ending 14 years of Conservative rule under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Opinion polls consistently predict a landslide victory for Labour, reflecting a desire for change among voters after a tumultuous period that saw five prime ministers in eight years.

The election, called months earlier than anticipated by Sunak, has seen 40,000 polling stations open across the country from 0600 GMT. Both party leaders cast their votes early, with Sunak voting in his northern England constituency of Richmond and Starmer in his north London district.

Keir Starmer, the 61-year-old former human rights lawyer leading Labour, has framed the election as a chance for Britain to “begin a new chapter.” He emphasized the need for change, stating, “We cannot afford five more years under the Conservatives.” However, Starmer faces the challenge of potentially taking office with a massive to-do list but without overwhelming public support or substantial financial resources to address it.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, 44, has shifted his campaign strategy in recent weeks. Initially calling for a fifth consecutive Conservative victory, he now warns of the dangers of an unchallenged Labour Party in parliament. Sunak cautioned voters that a Labour government would increase taxes, hinder economic recovery, and leave Britain more vulnerable in times of geopolitical tension – claims Labour denies.

The polls suggest Britain may follow other European countries in punishing incumbent governments after the cost of living crisis stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Unlike France, the UK appears poised to move towards the center-left rather than further right.

Labour has maintained a substantial poll lead of 15 to 20 points since Sunak took office in October 2022. Modelling by pollsters predicts Labour could achieve one of the biggest election victories in British history, potentially surpassing majorities won by Tony Blair or Margaret Thatcher.

This dramatic shift in political fortunes was unimaginable during the last election in 2019 when Boris Johnson secured a large victory for the Conservatives. Since then, the Conservative Party has faced internal turmoil, scandals, and the fallout from Brexit, eroding its credibility and unity.

Starmer, who took over Labour from Jeremy Corbyn after the party’s worst defeat in 84 years, has steered the party back to the center. He now faces the challenge of delivering on his promise of change while managing limited resources and high expectations.

The election result could also be influenced by factors such as the performance of smaller parties like the Liberal Democrats and Reform UK, as well as Labour’s potential recovery in Scotland.

As Britons cast their votes, the country stands at a crossroads, with the outcome likely to shape British politics and policy for years to come. The exit poll at 2100 GMT will provide the first indication of the results, with detailed official tallies expected in the early hours of Friday.

Reuters

Mbappe and Ronaldo Headline Highly-Anticipated France vs Portugal Euro 2024 Quarter-Final Clash

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France and Portugal are set to renew their European Championship rivalry in a highly-anticipated quarter-final match on Friday in Hamburg, with much of the attention focused on team captains Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo. This clash brings together two of the tournament favorites, though both teams have shown inconsistencies in their performances so far.

Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo

France has reached the quarter-finals for the sixth time in the last seven major tournaments, despite struggling to score goals in open play. Les Bleus have netted only three times in four games, with one penalty from Mbappe and two own goals. Mbappe’s performance has been affected by a broken nose suffered in the opening match against Austria, forcing him to miss the game against the Netherlands and impacting his sharpness since returning.

France assistant coach Guy Stephan addressed Mbappe’s condition, stating, “I don’t think any of us have made enough of the fact he broke his nose. It is not an excuse, but he was traumatised by the collision.” Despite these challenges, Stephan emphasized, “Kylian is still Kylian. He has scored almost a goal a game for us since 2021.

Portugal Cristiano Ronaldo

On the other side, Portugal reached this stage after a penalty shootout victory over Slovenia following a goalless 120 minutes. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa emerged as the hero by saving all three of Slovenia’s penalties. However, the match was also notable for Cristiano Ronaldo’s emotional reaction after missing a penalty in extra time.

Ronaldo’s quest to become the oldest ever goal-scorer at the tournament has led to criticism from some who feel he may be holding back Portugal’s talented squad. However, coach Roberto Martinez continues to defend the veteran forward, praising his passion and commitment to the team.

France Kylian Mbappe

Both teams have faced goal-scoring challenges in recent matches. Portugal has gone more than four hours without finding the net, while France has relied heavily on penalties and own goals. The upcoming match will test both sides’ ability to break through strong defenses.

The history between these two teams adds another layer of intrigue to the quarter-final. Their previous encounters in knockout rounds have always seen the winner go on to lift the trophy. Notable past meetings include Portugal’s victory in the Euro 2016 final and France’s wins in the 1984 and 2000 semi-finals.

As the teams prepare for this crucial match, both will be looking to overcome their recent scoring difficulties and secure a place in the semi-finals. With Mbappe and Ronaldo leading their respective sides, the stage is set for a potentially classic European Championship encounter that could define the tournament’s trajectory.

Punchng.com /AFP

University of Benin, Nigeria, Shuts Down Indefinitely Following Student Protests Over Power Outage

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The University of Benin (UNIBEN) in Nigeria has indefinitely suspended all academic activities and ordered students to vacate their hostels immediately following intense student protests over electricity rationing. This drastic measure was announced on Thursday, July 4, 2024, by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Benedicta Ehanire, in response to what the university administration deemed “unrealistic demands” from the student body.

The crisis began when the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC PLC) disconnected power to the institution due to an outstanding bill of over 250 million naira, a significant increase from the previous 80 million naira bill. This disconnection led to severe power rationing on campus, with students reporting only one hour of electricity per day.

On Wednesday, July 3, students took to the streets in protest, blocking the busy Benin-Ore highway. This action caused significant disruption to traffic and hardship for commuters. Protesters, carrying placards and chanting slogans, demanded a resolution to the power crisis, citing difficulties in studying and preparing for exams due to the lack of electricity.

John, a protesting student, expressed frustration: “We only have one hour of electricity every day since this issue started. We are tired of studying in the dark. We need electricity to read and prepare for our exams.” Another student, Sarah, emphasized the protesters’ determination: “We will not leave the highway until something is done. We can’t afford to fail our exams because of the university’s negligence.”

The university Senate held an emergency meeting on Wednesday to address the situation. However, the failure to reach an agreement with the students led to the decision to shut down the institution. Ehanire’s statement read, “Following the refusal of students of the University of Benin to shift grounds on their demands for 24-hour supply of electricity and more, considered unrealistic by the university’s Senate, the university has shut down academic activities indefinitely.”

This shutdown affects all academic activities, with students ordered to vacate hostels immediately. However, non-teaching staff and those on essential duties are not affected by the closure.

The situation has highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Nigerian universities in maintaining infrastructure and providing essential services. It also underscores the tension between student expectations and the financial realities of running a large educational institution in Nigeria.

As the university remains closed, questions arise about the long-term impact on the academic calendar and the potential for finding a sustainable solution to the power supply issues. The incident also draws attention to the broader issues of electricity supply and infrastructure development in Nigeria’s education sector.

The university administration and student representatives will need to engage in further dialogue to resolve this crisis and ensure the timely resumption of academic activities. Meanwhile, the local community and commuters hope for a swift resolution to prevent further disruptions to daily life in the area.

Punchng

28-Year-Old Son Kills Anglican Priest Father in Delta State, Nigeria

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In a shocking incident that has rocked the agrarian community of Okpare in Olomu Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria, a 28-year-old man has allegedly killed his father, an Anglican priest, in the early hours of Wednesday. The victim, identified as Rev. Isaac Umurie, was attached to St. John’s Anglican Church in Okpare-Olomu.

According to reports from PUNCH Metro, the gruesome murder took place around 2 a.m. when the suspect, Ufuoma Umurie, allegedly attacked his sleeping father with a cutlass. The assailant reportedly hacked at his father’s skull and other parts of his body before neighbors and church members could intervene.

The Police PRO and the suspect, Ufuoma Umurie, who allegedly attacked his sleeping father with a cutlass

In the chaos that ensued, the priest’s wife narrowly escaped a similar fate. Sources claim that Ufuoma chased his mother as she attempted to save her husband, but she managed to flee unharmed. The community was thrown into pandemonium as news of the horrific event spread.

While the exact motive behind the attack remains unclear, multiple sources within the community allege that Ufuoma has a history of mental instability. This incident is reportedly the second time he has attacked his father, with the previous assault resulting in a beating that was resolved without police involvement at the father’s request.

A source, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed, “This is the second time Ufuoma is attacking his father. The other time, he beat him up, and the Okpare-Olomu vigilantes held him. But the father pleaded that he should not be taken to the police station. We heard that he is not mentally stable.”

The source added that Rev. Umurie was nearing retirement and had been stationed closer to home in preparation for this next phase of his life. The tragic irony of this timing has not been lost on the community.

In the aftermath of the attack, local residents managed to overpower Ufuoma and hand him over to the police at the Otu-Jeremi Divisional Headquarters for prosecution. The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the incident and stated that the suspect is in police custody and will face prosecution for his alleged crime.

This devastating event has raised serious questions about mental health support and family violence in the region. It has also cast a shadow over the tight-knit religious community, leaving many grappling with the shocking loss of a respected spiritual leader at the hands of his own son.

As the investigation unfolds, the community of Okpare and the wider Anglican church in Delta State are left to mourn the loss of Rev. Umurie and contemplate the complex issues surrounding this tragedy. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for improved mental health services and support systems for families dealing with such challenges.

Punchng

Argentina Aims for Copa América Semi-Finals as Messi’s Fitness Remains in Question

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Argentina, the reigning world champions and Copa América title holders, are gearing up for their quarter-final clash against Ecuador at NRG Stadium on Thursday, as the knockout stage of the prestigious South American tournament begins. The Albiceleste’s journey through the group stage was marked by solid performances, securing victories against Canada, Chile, and Peru. However, as they approach this crucial match, the fitness of their talisman, Lionel Messi, remains a significant concern.

Lionel Scaloni, Argentina’s head coach, faces a tactical dilemma as he awaits a final assessment of Messi’s condition. The 37-year-old superstar sat out the team’s last group stage match against Peru due to a sore right hamstring. Scaloni has adopted a cautious approach, stating, “Yesterday we had good feelings and we’ll take this day to define the team based on the response we get today.” The coach emphasized the importance of consulting with Messi directly about his readiness for the game.

Should Messi be unable to start, Scaloni might opt for a potent striking partnership of Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez. Martínez, despite starting on the bench in the first two games, has emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with four goals in three appearances. The last time this duo started together was in a pre-tournament friendly against Ecuador on June 9, which Argentina won 1-0.

Scaloni praised both strikers, noting, “Lautaro is doing very well, in a good moment, the same as Julián. Lautaro has not only done well, but he has waited for his chance and that makes me very happy. They both scored goals, let’s hope that streak continues tomorrow.”

Ecuador, who qualified for the quarter-finals ahead of Mexico and Jamaica, presents a formidable challenge despite suffering a defeat to Venezuela in their opening group match. Argentina’s recent record against Ecuador is favorable, with their last defeat dating back to a 2015 World Cup qualifier. However, Scaloni remains cautious, stating, “I don’t believe in statistics, they are there to be broken. Ecuador is a well-trained team, they have good players and a good coach.”

Ecuador’s veteran striker and captain, Enner Valencia, the country’s all-time top scorer with 41 goals, believes an upset is possible. “They have a lot of experience, they’ve been working together for a long time. They are the best players in the world, but we have a young squad with a lot of personality, respecting our opponents but wanting to win,” Valencia commented.

Ecuador’s coach, Félix Sánchez, anticipates that Argentina’s gameplay won’t change drastically with or without Messi. We know we are playing a high-level team, Lionel Messi is the player that makes the difference, and we have played against them with him and without him on the field,” Sánchez noted. “Their gameplan doesn’t change much – they are a group who have been with their head coach for a long time, they know their game plan, and we have had to be ready either way.”

As the tournament progresses, other intriguing quarter-final matchups await. Canada, surprise qualifiers from Group A, will face an impressive Venezuela side that won all three of their group matches. Colombia, who topped Group D ahead of Brazil, are set to play Panama in Arizona. Perhaps the most anticipated clash sees Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay take on Brazil in Las Vegas.

This Copa América knockout stage promises high-stakes football, with teams vying for continental glory. Argentina’s quest to defend their title faces its first major test against Ecuador, with the outcome potentially hinging on Messi’s fitness and Scaloni’s tactical decisions.

AP/AFP

Inter Miami Secures 2-1 Victory Over Charlotte FC Without Messi and Suarez

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Inter Miami FC extended their impressive run in Major League Soccer with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium, despite the absence of their star players Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. The win marks Inter Miami’s fourth consecutive MLS victory and fifth game unbeaten, solidifying their position atop the Supporters’ Shield standings with 47 points.

The match began with Charlotte FC applying early pressure, creating several scoring opportunities that Inter Miami managed to weather. The tide turned 30 minutes into the game when Robert Taylor capitalized on Jordi Alba’s assist, calmly finishing into the far corner to put the visitors ahead.

Charlotte FC responded swiftly, with Patrick Agyemang equalizing just before halftime with a well-placed low drive that goalkeeper Drake Callender couldn’t keep out despite getting a hand to it.

The second half saw tactical adjustments from Inter Miami coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino, including shifting Sergio Busquets to left-sided center-back, providing added security and distribution from the back. While Charlotte pressed for a winner, it was Inter Miami who struck late.

In the dying moments of the match, Julian Gressel, positioned at right-wing, delivered an excellent cross to Benjamin Cremaschi, who made a decisive run into the box to tap home the winning goal.

This victory is particularly significant for Inter Miami as they continue to perform well without their star duo of Messi and Suarez, who are representing Argentina and Uruguay respectively in the ongoing Copa America 2024 hosted by the United States.

Martino’s ability to guide the team through this challenging period without key players demonstrates the depth and resilience of the squad. As Inter Miami maintains their position at the top of the league, they prove they’re more than just a team reliant on star power.

The result not only cements Inter Miami’s status as current MLS frontrunners but also sends a strong message to their competitors about their ability to secure crucial away victories even when not at full strength.

New Video Reveals Shocking Details of Rapper Julio Foolio’s Murder in Tampa

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In a disturbing development, TMZ has obtained surveillance footage revealing the final moments of Florida rapper Julio Foolio’s life. The video, captured on June 23 in a shared parking lot between a Hilton and Holiday Inn in Tampa, shows the brutal attack that resulted in the 26-year-old artist’s death.

The footage, timestamped at 4:37 AM, depicts a masked gunman armed with what appears to be a semi-automatic rifle rushing through the parking lot. The assailant quickly approaches Foolio’s black car and opens fire at point-blank range, leaving the rapper and his companions with little time to react.

As the car attempts to evade the gunfire, it hits a curb while trying to speed around a corner. The video suggests the presence of multiple gunmen, intensifying the already violent scene. While Foolio was fatally wounded in the attack, three other occupants of the vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The shooting occurred just two days after Foolio’s 26th birthday. The Jacksonville native had been in Tampa celebrating with friends, documenting their activities on Instagram as they moved from an Airbnb to the hotel where the tragedy unfolded.

In the aftermath of Foolio’s death, his mother released a statement acknowledging her son’s involvement in a “gangsta lifestyle” while announcing plans to release a documentary about his life. Bizarrely, Foolio’s Instagram account remains active, featuring a recent post with an AI-generated video placing the deceased rapper’s face on WWE wrestler The Undertaker’s body.

The Tampa Police Department reports that the investigation into Foolio’s murder remains active, with no updates on the suspects who managed to flee the scene. This shocking video provides crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation and serves as a stark reminder of the violence plaguing the hip-hop community.

The release of this footage sheds new light on the circumstances surrounding Foolio’s death, potentially aiding law enforcement in their pursuit of justice while also reigniting discussions about gun violence and safety in the entertainment industry.

Credit: TMZ

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