Sheila Flynn

Thirteen current and former Pennsylvania State University students, along with the father of one student, were charged in an alleged cocaine trafficking network involving the Delta Upsilon and Sigma Chi fraternities. Prosecutors say Agostino Abbatiello led the operation, supplied cocaine, recruited distributors and made fraternity pledges package drugs as part of hazing. Investigators reportedly traced the network through Snapchat and Venmo, then raided Thomas Robinson's fraternity room in December 2024, where they found drugs, drug paraphernalia, a firearm and ammunition. Robinson allegedly identified Abbatiello as his supplier, leading to wider charges. Penn State and both fraternities condemned the conduct and imposed suspensions or expulsions.

Police departments in the United States are increasingly producing true crime podcasts to publicize cold cases and solicit new tips. Aurora Police are using the White Whale podcast to investigate the 2016 murder of Chelsea Yasser, with more than 7,000 downloads and several leads, including one still being pursued. Similar efforts helped publicize the case of fugitive murderer Peter Chadwick and supported the investigation that found Karen Schepers’s remains in Illinois after more than four decades. The approach can broaden public reach and help detectives organize investigations, but it requires significant resources and carries legal and ethical risks, particularly when police describe suspects as guilty before trial.

Women athletes in lumberjack sports set new world records at the Lumberjack World Championships in Wisconsin, reflecting rapid growth in female participation. Karolina Urbanova of the Czech Republic broke records in the Standing Block and Underhand Chop events, while Hayward native Meredith Ingbretson set a new mark in the Boom Run. Event director Samantha LaSalle notes that women’s involvement has expanded significantly as more disciplines open to them. The sport maintains a supportive global community despite limited prize money, with competitors often hosted by local families. Both Urbanova and Ingbretson hope their success inspires younger participants as they continue to train and pursue broader titles.

An 82-year-old Minnesota resident, Anita LeBrun, successfully advocated for a new state law allowing nursing homes and assisted living facilities to serve alcohol at special events without a licence. After testifying before lawmakers, she joined Governor Tim Walz for a ceremonial signing of the measure, which aims to reduce regulatory barriers and give seniors greater freedom in their living communities. The change followed a citation issued to her facility for serving champagne at an event, prompting advocacy from senior care groups. Other providers are expected to adopt the new approach, and LeBrun’s home is planning a celebration under the updated rules.

An 82-year-old Minnesota resident, Anita LeBrun, successfully campaigned for a state law allowing nursing homes and assisted living facilities to serve alcohol at special events without a licence. After testifying before lawmakers, she joined Governor Tim Walz for the ceremonial signing of the legislation, which supporters say restores personal freedoms for seniors while maintaining safety guidelines. The change follows concerns raised after her facility was cited for serving champagne at an event, with advocates arguing residents should have the same rights as those living independently. Other care providers are expected to adopt similar practices following the new law.

Prosecutors presented extensive evidence linking Tyler Robinson to the killing of Charlie Kirk, including DNA on a rifle and text messages in which he admitted responsibility. Surveillance footage, witness testimony, and forensic findings outlined Robinson’s movements and attempts to hide the weapon. Defense attorneys challenged the credibility of the evidence and witnesses throughout the multi‑day preliminary hearing. Judge Tony Graf will decide whether the case proceeds to trial as both sides prepare written briefs. The Kirk family expressed hope for a fair and transparent process.

Prosecutors presented extensive evidence in a preliminary hearing against Tyler Robinson, accused of assassinating political activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Surveillance footage, DNA on a rifle, and text messages— including an apparent confession to roommate Lance Twiggs—were highlighted as key elements supporting probable cause for trial. The defense challenged the credibility of forensic reports and testimony, raising concerns about hearsay and potential juror bias. Emotional courtroom scenes unfolded as family members and public spectators observed the proceedings. Judge Tony Graf will determine whether the case proceeds to trial, with written briefs due before the next hearing in September.

Testimony in a Utah court detailed how Tyler Robinson confessed to killing Charlie Kirk in texts to his roommate Lance Twiggs, expressed regret afterward, and later turned himself in. Prosecutors presented video interviews, text messages, and evidence including an engraved rifle and cartridges, while the defence challenged forensic findings. A judge ruled that parts of Twiggs' recorded statement and messages could be released with redactions as the preliminary hearing continued.

Testimony in a Utah court detailed how Tyler Robinson allegedly confessed to killing Charlie Kirk, expressed regret and told his roommate, Lance Twiggs, that he intended to turn himself in. Prosecutors presented text messages showing Robinson admitting responsibility shortly after the shooting and attempting to recover the rifle used. Evidence shown included engraved bullets and DNA analysis linking Robinson and Twiggs to items found at the scene. The judge allowed publication of Twiggs’ interview and text exchanges with limited redactions as the hearing continued to determine whether the case proceeds as a potential death penalty trial.

Prosecutors presented new surveillance footage in a Utah court showing a man they say is Tyler Robinson on a campus rooftop shortly after the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in September 2025. Investigators testified that the footage traced the suspect’s movements across Utah Valley University before and after the shooting, while defence attorneys challenged the admissibility and accuracy of the video evidence and witness accounts. The hearing will determine whether sufficient evidence exists for Robinson to stand trial as he faces multiple charges, including aggravated murder.

Prosecutors presented surveillance video at a Utah preliminary hearing that they say shows Tyler Robinson running across a rooftop after the fatal 2025 shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Investigators testified that the footage depicts the suspect changing clothes, accessing a campus rooftop, and fleeing after the shot was fired. Kirk’s widow attended the proceedings, while Robinson’s defense team challenged the admissibility and accuracy of the video evidence and sought removal of the death penalty. The judge will determine whether sufficient evidence exists for the case to proceed to trial.

Family members of Charlie Kirk appeared in a Utah court for the preliminary hearing of Tyler Robinson, who is charged with aggravated murder and other offenses for the 2025 shooting of the conservative activist at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors, seeking the death penalty, outlined their planned witnesses as defense lawyers attempted unsuccessfully to limit evidence and remove capital punishment as a sentencing option. Kirk’s family issued a statement expressing grief and requesting privacy while the proceedings continue through the week.

Charlie Kirk’s family attended a preliminary hearing in Utah for Tyler Robinson, the 23‑year‑old charged with Kirk’s fatal shooting during a 2025 event at Utah Valley University. Prosecutors outlined plans to call law enforcement witnesses as they pursue the death penalty, while defense attorneys sought to suppress evidence and remove capital punishment from consideration. Kirk’s family issued a statement expressing grief and requesting privacy as the proceedings continue through the week.

Recently deported Venezuelan migrants went missing or were injured when twin earthquakes struck shortly after their return on a US deportation flight. Families searched hospitals, morgues, and collapsed buildings for information as access and official details remained limited. Some survivors recounted escaping rubble, while others suffered severe injuries. Relatives expressed anguish over the rapid sequence of detention, deportation, and disaster and called for confirmation and return of their loved ones’ remains.