Jimmy Melvin Jr., a notorious Nova Scotia gangster, was acquitted of first-degree murder in the death of Terry Marriott after a four-week trial and a day-and-a-half of jury deliberation. The trial highlighted a multigenerational rivalry between the Melvin and Marriott families, both involved in drug-related crimes. Key witness Derek MacPhee, who had a history of criminal activity and lying under oath, failed to convince the jury of Melvin's guilt. The case involved complex testimonies and allegations, including MacPhee's potential motive and involvement in the crime.

BP, a young offender with a history of violence and criminal activity, is testing the limits of the juvenile detention system in Nova Scotia. Sentenced for a murder committed at age 15, BP's case has drawn attention from various stakeholders, including judges, psychologists, and justice reform advocates. Despite his violent behavior and involvement in a riot, BP has shown some progress in therapy. However, his return to the youth facility has raised safety concerns among staff, who feel unprepared to handle him. The article highlights the complexities of balancing rehabilitation and safety within the juvenile justice system.

Halifax has seen a rise in murder rates, with 11 people killed this year, the highest since 2013. The recent murder of Shakur Jefferies, allegedly by local hip-hop artist Carvel Clayton, has sparked community outrage and highlighted ongoing issues of gun violence. Clayton, known as Certi, had gained recognition for his anti-violence song 'Pray for Scotia.' The community, including newly-elected municipal councillor Lindell Smith, is calling for a town hall meeting to address the crisis. The article also touches on the challenges faced by Halifax's rap scene amid racial discrimination and the impact of the murder on the local music community.

The article discusses the ongoing refugee crisis at the Polish-Belarusian border, where migrants from countries like Syria, Ethiopia, Yemen, and Afghanistan attempt to enter the European Union through the Bialowieza Forest. The number of illegal crossings has decreased since the 2021 crisis but may be rising again. Belarus is accused of facilitating these crossings as a form of hybrid warfare. In Poland, despite a court ruling against pushbacks, migrants still face challenges from border guards. Mariusz Kurnyta, working with the Wolno Nam Foundation and Podlaskie Voluntary Humanitarian Rescue, aids these refugees. The Polish government, particularly the ruling Law and Justice party, is using the border issue as a campaign point, linking migration to security threats, especially with the presence of Russia's Wagner paramilitary force in Belarus. The article also touches on the humanitarian efforts by groups like Grupa Granica and the contrasting treatment of Ukrainian refugees in Poland.

The article discusses the lingering effects of uranium mining in the Northwest Territories, Canada, on the local community of Délı̨nę, whose residents were unknowingly complicit in the Manhattan Project during World War II. Uranium from the Port Radium mine near Délı̨nę contributed to the development of the nuclear bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The community, which includes many Indigenous people, has not received an apology from the Canadian government for the risks and moral injuries they suffered. The article highlights the community's desire for recognition and apology, their own apology to Japan, and the ongoing health concerns related to the mining activities. It also touches on the government's response to the issue and the community's readiness to forgive if an apology is extended.

Nova Scotia's last strip club, Ralph's Place in Dartmouth, has closed its doors, marking the end of an era for the local strip club scene. The closure reflects broader trends in the industry, including stricter city regulations, the rise of alternative forms of sex work, and gentrification. Despite its reputation and low ratings, Ralph's held sentimental value for many, including former employees and patrons. The future of strip clubs in Halifax faces significant regulatory hurdles, with local officials indicating that opening a new club would be a challenging process.

The Ontario Human Rights Commission has initiated a public interest inquiry into racial profiling and discrimination by the Toronto Police Service. Despite new rules introduced in 2016, issues persist, with significant disparities in police interactions with black individuals. The commission aims to analyze data from 2010 to 2017 to propose targeted solutions. However, there is tension between the commission and the police over data sharing, with the police citing budgetary constraints. The inquiry comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Toronto Police, including the recent termination of a program placing armed officers in schools and the imprisonment of Constable James Forcillo for a 2013 shooting.

Alphabet subsidiary Sidewalk Labs has partnered with Waterfront Toronto to develop a tech-driven neighborhood on Toronto's waterfront. The plan includes futuristic elements like heated pedestrian lanes, self-driving buses, and underground channels for utilities and deliveries. Sidewalk Labs has committed $50 million to the planning phase, with concerns raised about affordability and privacy due to the involvement of Google's thinkers. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has endorsed the project for its potential to create jobs and establish an urban innovation hub. Local reactions are mixed, with some residents excited and others, like ACORN Canada, protesting for more clarity on affordable housing. Privacy concerns are also prominent, with Sidewalk Labs planning to use sensors and data collection to optimize urban design. CEO Dan Doctoroff emphasizes the opportunity to integrate privacy into the project's design from the start.

With the impending legalization of marijuana for adult use in Canada by July 2018, Health Canada faces challenges ensuring the safety of cannabis products. Recent recalls of medical marijuana due to banned pesticides have raised concerns about regulatory oversight. Despite current regulations, incidents involving companies like OrganiGram, Aurora Cannabis, and Mettrum Ltd. highlight gaps in testing and enforcement. Health Canada plans to implement random testing, but experts suggest more stringent measures. The situation underscores the need for robust regulatory frameworks to protect consumers as the market expands.

James 'Jimmy' Melvin Jr. is on trial for the first-degree murder of Terry Marriott Jr. The defense attorney, Patrick MacEwen, suggested that the main accuser, Derek MacPhee, who has immunity for his cooperation, was romantically involved with the victim's wife, Nadine Marriott, which MacPhee denied. MacPhee admitted to helping Melvin with the murder and a 2015 home invasion. The defense questioned MacPhee's actions and credibility, highlighting his incentive to lie due to immunity and financial stipend for testifying. Judge Jamie Campbell warned the jury about the reliability of MacPhee's testimony.

In a Halifax courtroom, the defence attorney for James 'Jimmy' Melvin Jr., accused of first-degree murder in the death of Terry Marriott Jr., challenged the credibility of the Crown's key witness, Derek MacPhee. MacPhee, described as a drug-addled 'professional criminal,' testified that he drove Melvin to the location where Marriott was shot while sleeping. MacPhee, who has a criminal history and is financially supported by the Halifax Regional Police, is testifying in exchange for immunity from charges related to a 2015 home invasion. The defence highlighted MacPhee's criminal activities and questioned his motives and reliability.

With the impending legalization of marijuana for adult use in Canada by July 2018, Health Canada faces the challenge of ensuring cannabis products are safe and high-quality. Recent recalls due to banned pesticides have highlighted the need for stringent regulations. Current regulations require testing for potency, cannabinoid profile, heavy metals, and microbes, with plans to standardize THC amounts in products. The development of non-medical system regulations is ongoing, considering existing requirements.

Following a controversial acquittal in a sexual assault case by Halifax judge Gregory Lenehan, the Canadian House of Commons has unanimously agreed to fast-track a bill proposed by Opposition leader Rona Ambrose. The bill mandates comprehensive sexual assault training for federally appointed judges. The decision has garnered support from various political leaders and activists, highlighting a collective effort to improve the judicial system's handling of sexual assault cases. The bill also requires the Canadian Judicial Council to report on its training and for judges to write out their decisions in sexual assault cases. Nova Scotia's government has announced the appointment of special prosecutors for sexual assault cases and is seeking federal funding to provide free legal advice to survivors.

Women's rights advocates are calling for the removal of Nova Scotia Judge Greg Lenehan after he acquitted taxi driver Bassam Al-Rawi of sexual assault, despite the driver being found with a passed-out woman in his taxi and her DNA on his mouth. The case has parallels to the Rehtaeh Parsons case, which Lenehan also oversaw, leading to further scrutiny of his judicial conduct. An online petition for a formal inquiry into Lenehan's actions has gained traction, and legal experts weigh in on the rarity and complexity of removing judges. The Canadian Judicial Council is involved in deliberations over similar issues with another judge, Robin Camp, known for his controversial remarks in a rape trial.

Lauri Love, a British hacker facing extradition to the US on multiple charges, has been granted the opportunity to appeal his extradition to the UK's High Court. Love, who suffers from Asperger's syndrome and other health issues, argues that he would not survive the harsh conditions of the US prison system. The US Department of Justice accuses Love of participating in a series of hacks in retaliation for the prosecution and subsequent suicide of internet activist Aaron Swartz. Love discusses the poor state of cybersecurity in federal systems and the changing landscape of digital protest and hacking. The appeal provides a temporary reprieve for Love, who hopes the High Court will deliver a favorable verdict.

Nova Scotia's education system is in turmoil as contract negotiations between the provincial government and the Nova Scotia Teachers Union break down, leading to a work-to-rule action by teachers. Education Minister Karen Casey initially closed schools citing safety concerns but later reversed the decision after the union provided safety guidelines. The government paused emergency legislation intended to impose a contract, causing frustration among parents and students. Teachers continue to work under minimal conditions, and protests have erupted, with public sentiment largely supporting the teachers' stance against the government's handling of the situation.

In Glace Bay, Cape Breton, the community is divided over the reopening of a coal mine by Kameron Collieries, a subsidiary of The Cline Group. While some locals see it as a much-needed source of employment, others are concerned about the environmental impact and the safety record of the operators. The island has faced economic decline since the last coal mine closed in 2001, and many residents are desperate for jobs. However, there is also a push for developing a more sustainable economy through tourism and creative industries. The debate highlights the tension between economic necessity and environmental responsibility.

The article discusses the viral website encouraging Americans to move to Cape Breton if Donald Trump wins the presidency, highlighting the island's perceived progressive values. However, it points out the challenges in accessing abortion services in Cape Breton and Nova Scotia, despite legal rights. The piece includes personal experiences and commentary from local activists and health professionals, emphasizing the bureaucratic and logistical hurdles women face. The article also touches on broader issues of abortion access in the Maritime provinces and contrasts them with the political climate in the United States.

Heather Jordan Ross, a rape survivor, has created a comedy show titled 'Rape Is Real and Everywhere' with fellow survivor and comedian Emma Cooper. The show, which sold out in three days, features rape survivors as comedians sharing their experiences with sexual violence through humor. Ross discusses the empowering aspect of the show, its challenge to the male-dominated comedy scene, and the importance of survivors controlling the narrative. The show aims to confront societal attitudes towards rape and provide a space for survivors to express themselves.