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Disturbing Revelations in 7-Year-Old Boy’s Tragic Death

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In a grim case that has shocked the community, a young boy allegedly tortured by his mother and her two transgender partners succumbed to blunt force trauma to the head. Authorities have not discounted the possibility of sexual assault. 

During a press conference held on Tuesday in Cincinnati, unsettling details about the tragic demise of William Michael Evans-Ellis were revealed by coroner Dr. Lakshmi Sammarco.

William was discovered lifeless at his residence in Cincinnati last week. His mother, Kaitlin Evans, 38, along with her transgender partners, Nessa Keaney and Kirby Rankin, both aged 23, now face murder charges.

Dr. Sammarco, the coroner for Hamilton County, emphasized that due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, they are unable to dismiss the possibility that William may have been sexually assaulted before his death.

Authorities claim the young boy was subjected to torture inside a home in Oakley, where he was found deceased on Thursday, stirring distress and outrage within the community. 

The trio were co-parenting the youth prosecutors said in court last week after they were arraigned over the death of William. 

Hamilton County court records seen by the Daily Mail indicate that both Keaney and Rankin are biological males. Evans is the boy’s biological mother. 

According to WLWT, prosecutors said in court that there was evidence to show that William was being abused for over two months by the trio. 

William Michael Evans-Ellis was found dead last week inside the Cincinnati home he shared with his mother and her trans lovers

William Michael Evans-Ellis was found dead last week inside the Cincinnati home he shared with his mother and her trans lovers

Kaitlin Evans, pictured here, is the biological mother of William Evans who was found dead inside the home in Oakley

Kaitlin Evans, pictured here, is the biological mother of William Evans who was found dead inside the home in Oakley

Kirby Rankin

Nessa Keaney

Hamilton County court records seen by the Daily Mail indicate that both Keaney, right, and Rankin, left, are biological males 

After police entered the property, prosecutors said they found him in a closet where he had been bound and duct-taped. 

It was claimed that despite neglecting and torturing the boy, they managed to take a dog of theirs to a vet to be vaccinated the day before his death. 

Investigators said the boy suffered visible injuries which included ‘indicated physical beatings’ over his body. 

He also suffered impact injuries to the back of his head and had been water tortured for a period of time and was badly burned, investigators said.  

An attorney for Evans claimed that she did not cause the death of her son, saying that one of the others caused his death but did not name either Rankin or Keaney.

Her attorney did say in court that she had failed to save her son, and pleaded with the judge for a $250,000 bond.

Prosecutors asked for a $1 million bond on the murder charge and a further $500,000 on a child endangerment charge. The judge sided with the prosecution. 

The boy’s other biological parent, who was not identified, was given the chance to address her in court, telling her: ‘I trusted you.’

Prosecutors said in court last week that they found him in a closet where he had been bound and duct-taped

Prosecutors said in court last week that they found him in a closet where he had been bound and duct-taped

William also suffered impact injuries to the back of his head and had been water tortured for a period of time and was badly burned

William also suffered impact injuries to the back of his head and had been water tortured for a period of time and was badly burned 

It was claimed that despite neglecting and torturing the boy, they managed to take a pet of theirs to a vet to be vaccinated the day before his death

It was claimed that despite neglecting and torturing the boy, they managed to take a pet of theirs to a vet to be vaccinated the day before his death

According to Fox56, they also said that William had been kept away from them ‘over lies’. 

A lawyer for Keaney said she had failed to ‘administer treatment’ for the boy’s injuries which were allegedly ’caused by somebody else.’

Her attorney requested a $200,000 bond, prosecutors pushed back saying that Keaney failed to inform the authorities of the abuse. Her bond was set at $1 million. 

Attorneys for Rankin requested an evaluation, saying she suffered from ‘documented serious mental health issues’.

The judge agreed, with Rankin to be back in court for the results at the beginning of next month. 

A detective who was part of the investigation said that Rankin disclosed her own involvement in the abuse and implicated the two others as being involved. 

Her bond was set at $1 million on the murder charge, with another $100,000 secured for the child endangerment charge. 

detective said the case was ‘one of the most disturbing examples of child abuse’ that he had ever seen in his two decades of work. 

The trio are next back in court on August 17. All of them are on suicide watch inside Hamilton County Jail, Fox19 reported.

Private Investigator Unravels ‘House of Horrors’: Trio Arrested in Shocking Child Murder Case

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If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

In Ohio, the mother of a 7-year-old boy and two co-parents face murder charges following a family investigation by the child’s grandparents, who suspected abuse. This tragic case has captured national attention, highlighting the ongoing issue of child welfare.

According to Cincinnati police, Kaitlin Evans, 38, along with her co-parents Kirby Rankin, 33, and Nessa Keaney, 23, have all entered pleas of not guilty concerning the death of young William Evans. This development has sparked community outrage and calls for justice.

Discrepancies have emerged in how authorities document Kirby Rankin’s gender; while the Hamilton County jail and Municipal Court refer to Rankin as male, Cincinnati police records list Rankin as female.

Police records and 911 dispatch details reveal a disturbing sequence leading from a call to the Mercy Rookwood emergency room to a Cincinnati apartment. It was there that officers discovered William bound and unresponsive in a closet, a heartbreaking scene that underscored the severity of the charges.

Booking photo of Kaitlin Evans wearing a yellow jail uniform against a gray background.

Kaitlin Evans faces murder and endangering children charges in the death of her 7-year-old son, William Evans. (Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office)

The sequence began when a charge nurse called 911 to report that a barefoot woman had entered the emergency department, dropped to the floor and said someone was trying to kill her and had taken her son.

The nurse told the dispatcher the woman claimed her son was being held in the attic of a nearby apartment.

FOX19 NOW reported that the woman identified herself as William’s mother and named Rankin as the partner she accused of trying to kill her and taking the boy.

Family photos of 7-year-old William Evans smiling indoors and sitting in a car seat while wearing pink sunglasses.

Family photos show 7-year-old William Evans, who was found dead inside a Cincinnati apartment on Aug. 6, police said. (Credit: GoFundMe)

Police were sent to the hospital and the apartment for a welfare check, according to radio traffic and computer-aided dispatch records. An officer reported that a juvenile boy was in a closet and “not moving.”

A dispatch entry also stated that a child was “found tied up in closet.” Dispatchers then asked fire personnel to expedite their response, records show.

Alt text: Booking photo of Nessa Keaney wearing a yellow jail uniform against a gray background.

Nessa Keaney faces murder and endangering children charges in the death of 7-year-old William Evans. (Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office)

Cincinnati police said officers found William unresponsive inside the residence and that Cincinnati Fire Department personnel determined he was dead.

FOX19 NOW reported that Cincinnati homicide Detective Kyle Smith testified in court on Friday that William had been severely beaten over the previous two months, calling the case “probably one of the most disturbing cases of child abuse” he had encountered during decades in law enforcement.

Smith told the judge investigators believe William was held underwater for a prolonged period. He also said Rankin disclosed her involvement in what he described as a prolonged child-abuse incident and implicated Evans and Keaney as active participants.

Rankin’s attorney sought a competency evaluation, citing what the attorney described as serious mental health issues.

William’s grandparents, Mike Evans and Tina Evans, told WLWT they feared their grandson’s home had become a “house of horrors.”

The grandparents said William, who regularly spent Fridays and many Saturdays with them, told them about six weeks before his death that he did not want to return home.

Booking photo of Kirby Rankin wearing a yellow jail uniform against a gray background.

Kirby Rankin faces murder and endangering children charges in the death of 7-year-old William Evans. (Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office)

They said Kaitlin later restricted their contact with William. Mike and Tina said they saw him once during the final six weeks of his life and noticed a bruise on his shoulder. That visit, nearly four weeks before William’s death, was the last time they saw him.

Mike and Tina said they met with an attorney alongside William’s other grandparents and hired a private investigator to monitor Kaitlin and William. Mike said relatives feared both William and Kaitlin were being abused.

He said he rented a car Thursday intending to watch the home but arrived to find police vehicles outside. A detective then told Mike that William had died and Kaitlin was being questioned downtown.

The Cincinnati Police Department’s Homicide Unit is investigating.

Ex-College Golfer Quits in Shame as Shocking Cheating Scandal Video Goes Viral

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Zach Holland, an amateur golfer boasting a 2-handicap and a former player at William Carey University, has resigned from his seat at WingHaven Country Club. This decision follows the revelation of security footage capturing him fabricating a hole-in-one during an exclusive members-only event at the O’Fallon, Missouri course.

Speaking candidly in a Friday interview with “The Morning After” show on 101 ESPN St. Louis, Holland acknowledged his misconduct to club authorities. He also shared the unfortunate backlash his wife and two young children experienced after the incident came to light.

“When you engage in something as foolish as I did, consequences are inevitable,” Holland remarked, reflecting on his actions.

Holland confessed to placing his golf ball in the hole on the par-3 fourth hole even before the event had commenced, an event that featured a prize for a hole-in-one. He then misled his fellow players with his false claim.

“What I did was inexcusable,” Holland admitted, expressing deep regret. “There wasn’t any rationale behind it—just pure foolishness. Even though we were giving two shots back to the field, it’s not a justification. There’s no excuse for my actions.”

After completing the first three holes with his group, Holland told his playing partners he needed to take a personal phone call, allegedly regarding his ill grandmother — and that he would tee off on the fourth hole ahead of them and meet them later on the green.

Holland eventually returned to the group and explained that he “thinned” his tee shot, but wasn’t sure where the ball landed.

That’s when his group found the ball in the cup and celebrated what they believed was a hole-in-one by Holland.

Security footage reviewed by WingHaven staff showed Holland driving near the fourth green before his scheduled tee time, resulting in him confessing to the fake hole-in-one and resigning from the club.

“I made a bad decision, and I have to suffer the consequences,” Holland said. I’m trying to move forward as best I can and it’s been rough.”

He added that he’s worried about his family, who’ve been collateral damage due to backlash from his actions.

“I made a terrible mistake,” Holland said. “The lack of moral character — I can take the banter and the chatter and the heat because I deserve that from a golf perspective.

“What I am most worried about is my family. … It’s not fair to them for me to put them in that situation where when they walk through a room, there is a stigma there that your dad is a [cheater]. So questions that they may get asked or be getting asked down the road, that’s the worst part. The golf is secondary.”

Nathan Charnes, the acting PGA of America president and general manager at WingHaven, said that the club “promptly addressed the matter” and the incident is closed.

“WingHaven Country Club is aware of the recent attention surrounding an incident involving a former member during a Club event,” Charnes told GOLF.com. “The Club promptly addressed the matter.

“We care deeply about the integrity of the game and the experience we provide for our members and guests. Because this situation involved the actions of an individual and has been resolved, we consider it closed and have no further comment.”

Shocking Reveal: Lindsay Clancy’s Drug Saga Takes Dramatic Turn in Court

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Nurse Julie Paul expected to return to stand

Anticipation builds as Day 11 of Lindsay Clancy’s trial is about to commence in the Plymouth County Superior Court, Massachusetts. Scheduled to take center stage this morning is Nurse Julie Paul, who will be returning for a cross-examination by the defense, led by attorney Kevin Reddington.

Nurse Julie Paul, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, briefly interacted with Clancy in November 2022, just two months prior to the tragic events that led to the trial.

Paul facilitated a postpartum program and was introduced to Clancy through Sue Clancy, Patrick Clancy’s mother, who shares the same nursing profession.

Clancy dealt with intense anxiety and an incessantly racing mind. Yet, according to Paul, it was insomnia that posed the biggest challenge for her.

On November 21, 2022, Paul prescribed Prozac to Clancy. Shortly thereafter, she added Ambien, Remeron, and Klonopin to Clancy’s regimen, aiming to address her sleep issues.

In late-November, Paul was relocating to another hospital so transferred Clancy’s care to another nurse.

At that time, Clancy was also in the care of Dr Jennifer Tufts – who faced a grilling from Reddington on Monday about her experience and the quality of her treatment of Clancy in the four months leading up to the killings.

Nurse Julie Paul sits on the witness stand during Lindsay Clancy's murder trial in Plymouth Superior Court, Monday, Aug. 10, 2026, in Plymouth, Mass. (Greg Derr/The Patriot Ledger via AP, Pool)

Omar Alleges Federal Surveillance at Minneapolis Suburb Meeting

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Democratic U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar recently revealed that an agent from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) was stationed outside her regular town hall gathering in Richfield, Minnesota, last Thursday.

In a letter made public on social media Monday, Omar addressed Michael McCarthy, the interim special agent leading HSI’s St. Paul office, expressing concerns about the event. Omar’s letter detailed how a young woman, seated in a Ford Explorer, seemed out of place as she observed arrivals at a local community center where the meeting was convened. A Richfield police officer found her behavior questionable, prompting further investigation.

The letter explained that the officer decided to check the vehicle’s license plates and discovered they were registered to a different car. Subsequently, the officer approached the woman for clarification.

Initially, the woman identified herself as part of a security team. However, when Richfield Police verified with Omar’s security detail and found no association, she contacted her supervisor. At that juncture, it was disclosed she was an undercover HSI agent engaged in a local drug operation, according to Omar’s letter.

Following the interaction with her supervisor, the woman left the premises, as stated in the letter from Omar.

“Instead of monitoring the area for those who might wish harm to me and my constituents, Richfield Police were required to devote time to investigating why an HSI agent was outside of a Congressional event in a vehicle with mismatched plates,” Omar said in a written statement on Monday. “It also raises serious and uncomfortable questions about the purpose of HSI’s presence outside of my event.”

According to Omar’s letter, the Richfield Police Department said they had no advance communication of an undercover operation from HSI that would have “allowed them to ensure the safety of the officer and the community, as well as support HSI’s broader work to combat drug trafficking.”

WCCO has reached out to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for comment.

Omar said the incident “raises concerns” about practices at HSI and its parent agency, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. She’s asking McCarthy to explain why the agent was stationed outside the community center, how the agency learned of the meeting and what training the agent had completed.

Omar also requested information from McCarthy about any other official events or Minnesota leaders HSI agents may have observed this year.

Galyna Saltkovska Leaves ‘The McBee Dynasty’ Drama Behind, No Time for Masha Petrova’s ‘Mashed Potatoes’ Antics

The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys star, Galyna Saltkovska, is ready to turn the page after a startling breakup with Steve McBee Sr. The shocking revelation of Steve’s affair with her former best friend, Masha Petrova, left Saltkovska heartbroken. Declaring that she will never forgive Petrova for the betrayal, Saltkovska is determined to avoid any future entanglements with her. “She’s not worth it,” Saltkovska remarked, underscoring her resolve. She continued, “Protecting myself, my daughter Erena Chaples, and our future is what truly matters now.”

With newfound determination and a commitment to her work, Saltkovska is proving her place in the McBee family was never just about romance. “They can see that my presence on the farm wasn’t solely tied to my relationship with Steve,” explained Saltkovska. “I’ve always wanted to be part of their family.” In her role as CFO at McBee Farm & Cattle Co, she remains a pivotal figure, someone Steven McBee Jr. and his brothers, Jesse and Cole, rely on. Even when faced with challenges like balancing personal and professional life, Saltkovska stays grounded. “I had to set my boundaries,” she reflected. “It’s essential to focus on yourself sometimes.”

Saltkovska feels a sense of pride in her business partners as they steer through challenging times both at work and in their personal spheres. “I’m particularly proud of Steven’s efforts lately,” she commented, addressing concerns about whether the brothers might replicate their father’s mistakes with women. “He’s recognizing past missteps and making positive changes.” Saltkovska’s unwavering support will always be available should Steven or his brothers seek her guidance.

Stopping by the Decider studio, Saltkovska chatted about the series, the transformation of the McBee brothers into doting fathers, and addressed any feelings of being “business trapped” in her relationship with Steve.

DECIDER: Galyna, what has it been like watching this season back for you?

GALYNA SALTKOVSKA: It has been a much better experience for me. Everybody knows that I had a rough couple of years. For me, this season was about showing who I am outside the relationship I once had with Steve while continuing to support the family and the business.

I don’t know what you’ve been seeing online, but I’ve noticed that fans are giving you a lot of support this season. Are you glad it’s clear to people that your intentions and your love for this family are genuine?

I really appreciate that so much. You’re right. I’ve gotten so much support. I did not expect that, but I’m so grateful. Steve Sr.’s going to prison was obviously emotional for everyone. Did you get to say goodbye to him before he left? Yes, we all did. I obviously did not go with him and his family on the bus. I wanted to make sure that they had their space.

There’s been a lot of talk about Steven Jr.’s trying to give Allie Eklund 20% of the tallow business. People are claiming that he tried to “business-trap” her like Steve Sr. did to you. Do you feel “business-trapped” at all?

I do feel a little business-trapped. Though, I try not to look at it that way. I look at it as Steve giving me an opportunity because he saw something in me. Our personal relationship did not go the way I had expected, but I still appreciate the chance to be in business with the family and be part of everything.

Steve’s sons have maybe inherited some of their father’s less than desirable qualities when it comes to relationships. Is there hope for them to make some changes before it’s too late?

I think so, and I already see the changes, especially in Steven. I’m very proud of everything that Steven has been doing recently. He is changing his behavior and acknowledging the things he’s done wrong in past relationships. He knows he needs to do better in the future.

The boys’ reaction to Steve Sr.’s making his ex-wife Kristi McBee the interim president of McBee Farm & Cattle Co. was well covered, but what were your thoughts on that decision?

It’s a lot of pressure to deal with the business. It’s great to have somebody from the family to hold everyone accountable and watch over things. I was grateful to Kristi for stepping into the role.

I love Kristi, but I’m afraid she’s letting internet trolls get under her skin. What advice would you give her when dealing with keyboard warriors?

Don’t pay attention to any of them. If you do go look at their pages and profiles, they usually have zero followers and zero pictures. It’s best not to pay attention. Also, Kristi is more successful than any internet troll will ever be.

I think when a business is having financial issues, people are eager to put the blame anywhere they can. In that vein, the boys came at you at the car wash for having work/life balance. Were you surprised by their accusations?

I was not incredibly surprised, just because I know their perceptions. I would advise that it’s healthy to have a work/life balance. If you’re not able to have that balance, your business is not going to do well.

How did you get over that moment with the boys and move forward?

I just said, “Thank you for the TV show.” [Laughs] One of my biggest takeaways from this experience is that I’ve learned how to get over things. I have been so tough on myself my entire life, but once the show started airing, I knew I had to start drawing boundaries. It’s okay to have a work/life balance. It’s okay to focus on yourself. It took me a while to understand that, but you have to have it. If the boys don’t like it, it is what it is.

The McBee Dynasty, Galyna Saltkovska

Bryan Steffy/Bravo

As a mother to a beautiful daughter, Erena, what’s it been like for you to watch Cole and Jesse become girl dads?

I love it. I am so enjoying watching the girls grow up. Having my own daughter was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. Becoming a parent really does change who you are.

I can’t believe they both have daughters.

I know! And Steven is a grandfather to only girls. Let’s see if he changes the way he treats women.

Speaking of Steve’s women, his girlfriend Masha Petrova has been testing you this season.

I call her “Mashed Potatoes” now [laughs].

You can call her whatever you want! Although you’ve had some dustups in the past—and I’m putting that kindly—you’ve handled yourself very well and allowed people to see that she is the real instigator. Do you think you’ll ever let her get under your skin again?

She definitely knows how to get my blood boiling. That’s why I stay away from any situations involving her now. It’s not worth it. She’s not worth it. My life is more important. I have to protect myself, my daughter, and our future. So, I’m passing on mashed potatoes, thanks [laughs]. She’s in the past now.

Masha even tried to come for Kristi, which didn’t end well for her. The McBees can see how much you care for them. Does it feel good to know that the family now trusts and appreciates you?

Absolutely. They can see that I wasn’t just on the farm for my relationship with Steve. I always wanted to be part of the family. I want to help build something together. I am glad that they are seeing it now. It’s extremely rewarding.

I was so glad to see that Kacie and the girls invited you to her Bachelorette party in Vegas! What did it mean to you to be included?

I was sad that I wasn’t there for the engagement, but so happy to be able to join the girls in Vegas. Honestly, I haven’t been to a lot of Bachelorette parties. The only Bachelorette outing I went to before this was Alexis Bellino’s party. That was a different vibe [laughs]. Kacie’s Bachelorette night was a full-out party with strippers! Those guys were so hot.

Did you all stay out late?

I was not out as late as the rest of the crew. My age is getting to me [laughs]. I was like, “I’m checking out; I will let you youngsters do your thing.” I know that they had so much fun, and I’m still thinking about those guys!

Kacie and Cole just had their second daughter, Tate. When did you hear the news? Will you get to meet her soon?

I found out the next morning. It was very unexpected. Cole called me and told me all about the experience before I had to fly here. As soon as I’m back in Kansas City, I will make sure to meet their new little one because I freaking adore that family.

Lastly, what can you tease about the rest of the season?

All I can say is that the season finale is going to be a reality TV spectacle. It’s definitely something that you do not want to miss.

Colombia Earthquake Tragedy: Over 130 Lives Lost in Devastating 7.4 Magnitude Quake

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Rescue operations in western Colombia stretched into a second day on Tuesday as emergency crews worked tirelessly to unearth people from the rubble of collapsed structures. The devastating earthquake, the country’s most intense in decades, left many fearing that the death toll could climb even higher.

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck the region late Monday, setting off a desperate scramble in multiple cities to locate and rescue survivors.

President Abelardo de la Espriella, who has been at the helm for just three days, assured from Bogota that the national government remained fully engaged. “We are committed to using all resources at our disposal to safeguard lives, support affected communities, and ensure aid reaches every region in need,” he affirmed.

As confirmed by the Colombian Association of Capital Cities, the catastrophe has claimed at least 132 lives so far. The group plays a key role in coordinating efforts across Colombia’s major urban centers.

The epicenter of the quake was located in the country’s coastal Choco region at a depth of 100km. Officials in this economically struggling area have reported 13 fatalities.

The nearby city of Pereira was one of the worst-hit areas, with local authorities earlier announcing that at least 66 people had died.

The quake crumpled a tower of a beloved cathedral in the city of Manizales.

A woman wearing a blue T-shirt is being helped by a man wearing a black singlet

“A great many buildings” in the city sustained damage, administrative worker Jaime Zuluaga, 50, said.

“Traffic is paralysed and people don’t want to go back to their homes for fear of an aftershock.”

‘Missing people’ trapped beneath the rubble

At least 20 buildings crumbled in Colombia’s third-largest city, Cali, trapping people beneath the debris, mayor Alejandro Eder said.

Choco’s governor warned of serious damage in the provincial capital Quibdo, where videos showed more buildings reduced to rubble.

“We are all devastated,” Quibdo community leader Luis Gregorio Moreno told the Agence France-Presse (AFP) news agency.

“At this moment there are reported deaths, dozens of wounded, but what there are most of are missing people,” he said.

Ecuador, Panama and Venezuela also felt the early-morning quake, which prompted building evacuations in the Colombian capital, Bogota.

Still wearing their pyjamas, crowds of people rushed out into the street upon feeling the tremor, AFP reporters saw.

“The quake was very, very strong,” said content creator Valeria Polo, 29, in the capital, where only minimal damage was recorded.

Six small airports in western Colombia suspended operations, the civil aeronautics agency said, and the soccer governing body postponed upcoming football matches.

The United States was “closely monitoring the large earthquake that struck Colombia and stands ready to support the people of Colombia,” US secretary of state Marco Rubio said in a post on X.

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen said the EU was “ready to provide more support” to the South American country.

“We have already mobilised Copernicus, our satellite service, to help with rescue operations,” she wrote on social media.

Mexico, Ecuador and France also offered assistance.

Latin America is already reeling from two disastrous quakes that struck Venezuela in June, killing more than 6,000 people and causing widespread destruction.


Oklahoma Survivor Stands Firm as Teen Rape Suspect Released; Federal Intervention Possible

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An Oklahoma teenager, accused of sexually assaulting and strangling two female high school students, avoided serving any prison time, leading to public uproar as the family of one victim plans to take legal action.

“Our focus now shifts to a new chapter, which is pursuing civil litigation,” stated Rachel Bussett, the attorney for one of the victimized girls’ families, during a conversation with News Media.

Jesse Mack Butler found himself facing adult charges at 17, which included attempted first-degree rape, rape by instrumentation, sexual battery, forcible oral sodomy, and domestic assault and battery by strangulation. Despite these serious charges, he later secured youthful-offender status and entered a no contest plea to all 11 accusations in August 2025.

Rather than being incarcerated, Butler was placed under the oversight of the Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs and required to complete a rehabilitation plan. As Butler celebrated his 19th birthday at the stroke of midnight on Aug. 4, the court no longer held jurisdiction over him, resulting in the dismissal of the case by law.

Jesse Mack Butler

A photo shows Jesse Butler in a baseball uniform, a snapshot from before the criminal allegations surfaced. (Risin Baseball)

For the family she represents, Bussett said, the outcome was painful but hardly unexpected.

“They were sad and upset, obviously, because they didn’t want the deal to go through this way, but they weren’t surprised,” Bussett said. “They knew that it was going to happen from the beginning.”

The family may now have two possible paths forward.

80% OF CLAIMS IN AMERICA’S LARGEST SEXUAL ABUSE SETTLEMENT IN HISTORY COULD BE FRAUDULENT, LA DA SAYS

Bussett said the family is preparing for civil litigation while also hoping federal authorities take a fresh look at the case.

She said her understanding is that materials are being referred for review to determine whether content allegedly found on Butler’s phone could qualify as child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and whether it was distributed. Bussett said her client had seen material she believes was on the phone.

“We know that that’s a long shot,” Bussett said of possible federal action, “but we’re holding confident in the process.”

News Media has reached out to the Department of Justice for additional information on the case.

Jesse Butler protest sign

A protester raises a sign reading “Hold Jesse Responsible” during a demonstration outside the courthouse in Stillwater, Okla., on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025. (Nathan J. Fish/The Oklahoman/USA Today Network via Imagn Images)

Bussett also blasted her client’s treatment during the earlier prosecution, describing an encounter with the former elected district attorney that she characterized as a “mock cross-examination.”

Bussett said the teen believed she was speaking with someone she could trust to protect her, only to feel “absolutely attacked.”

“Not only are they often not believed, but then they’re attacked by those who are supposed to help them,” Bussett said of sexual-assault victims coming forward.

News Media has reached out to the previous district attorney for comment.

Jesse Butler sits down with sister and mother near by

Jesse Butler is seen sitting down on a bench, with his sister and mother standing nearby. (Amber “Mckinzie” Selvey)

Beyond the family’s troubling encounters with public officials, Butler’s defense attorney, Derek Chance, drew further criticism at the hearing after suggesting Butler was innocent and had been victimized by the case, according to newly elected Payne and Logan County District Attorney Jeremiah Gregory.

“Today’s hearing included disingenuous assertions from the defense regarding the defendant’s innocence, that he was the victim in this matter and that the victim’s assertions were false and had no bearing. The defense portrayed that somehow the perpetrator suffered more than these victims. What was said was insincere, untruthful and an affront to these victims and what they have endured,” Gregory said in a statement.

“Nothing has made my blood boil more.”

Gregory said constitutional double jeopardy protections bar Oklahoma from prosecuting Butler a second time, and he has contacted the appropriate federal agency to request a prosecutorial review of the case.

“I cannot undo what has already been done,” Gregory said, “but I can — and will — continue to stand as a strong voice for all victims of violent crime.”

News Media reached out to the Payne and Logan County District Attorney’s Office, the Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs and Butler’s attorney for additional comment.

Ex-Media Star Praises Carlson, Kelly; Slams CBS as ‘Embarrassment

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Katie Couric, a seasoned figure in American broadcast journalism, recently surprised many by commending Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson for their successful journeys in independent journalism.

At 69, Couric highlighted the achievements of these former Fox News personalities when asked by Status about rising independent media outlets that seem poised for lasting success.

The esteemed broadcaster praised both Kelly and Carlson for their entrepreneurial spirit and the success they have achieved outside traditional media institutions.

“When you speak to them, they express a sense of freedom due to their ability to make swift decisions and avoid bureaucratic hurdles,” Couric noted.

Couric also took a moment to critique the state of network news, pointing out that her former employers have struggled to remain relevant and adapt swiftly, a sentiment she experienced during her tenure at ABC as well.

The former 60 Minutes correspondent concluded that ‘corporate ownership and journalistic integrity don’t always align,’ before taking a shot at CBS directly.

‘The stories coming out of “60 Minutes” about trying to direct the storytelling in a way that is less offensive to the administration or that fudges the truth is a total embarrassment,’ she said.

‘It’s hard to measure, but there is probably some anticipatory obedience, if you will.’

Longtime legacy media journalist Katie Couric, 69, spoke at length about the current state of network news in an interview of the weekend

Longtime legacy media journalist Katie Couric, 69, spoke at length about the current state of network news in an interview of the weekend

She name-dropped Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson after being asked about independent media ventures she thinks 'will last.' Couric - an alum of all three legacy networks - offered a sterner assessment when asked about her former employers and their influence

She name-dropped Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson after being asked about independent media ventures she thinks ‘will last.’ Couric – an alum of all three legacy networks – offered a sterner assessment when asked about her former employers and their influence

Couric clarified that she does not think this obedience – to Donald Trump and the administration – is ‘everywhere.’

‘There’s still very good reporting being done.’

‘But when corporate interests are trying to achieve something with the administration’s blessing, it’s hard for the news organizations to be completely independent and liberated to report and to seek out the truth,’ she added.

Couric worked at CBS News for roughly half-a-decade. At the time, she was the highest-paid news anchor in the world and worked on both Evening News and 60 Minutes.

‘From everything I’ve read about the reporters who were fired, some of the stories behind the scenes were very troubling,’ she said of the latter’s current state.

A slew of firings hit 60 Minutes on May 28 at the behest of CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss, who was appointed by then-new Paramount CEO David Ellison in October.

Couric said she viewed Ellison’s ownership of CBS News as ‘very concerning’, due to the 43-year-old father’s well-known support for Trump. 

Ellison is the son of conservative billionaire Larry Ellison, and his former company, Skydance, acquired Paramount last year days after CBS settled a $16 million lawsuit filed against the network by Trump. Claims of bribery and political slant ensued.

A CBS source pushed back on Couric's take on the current state of CBS News, which she framed as an 'embarassment'

A CBS source pushed back on Couric’s take on the current state of CBS News, which she framed as an ’embarassment’

CBS News has been plagued by accusations of pandering to the president since Paramount  appointed Bari Weiss as its editor-in-chief in October

CBS News has been plagued by accusations of pandering to the president since Paramount  appointed Bari Weiss as its editor-in-chief in October

60 Minutes’ former top executive Bill Owens paved the way for the allegations by publicly accusing Paramount of already interfering with the show’s journalistic integrity while the merger was in limbo, before resigning in protest in April 2025. 

Paramount is now set to acquire the parent company of CNN, Warner Bros. Discovery, as well.

‘Having control of too many media outlets is not a good thing. It’s cause for concern how they’re going to manage CNN and who’s going to be in charge there,’ Couric said.    

‘I think it’s unclear at this juncture, so I’m taking a wait-and-see attitude right now. But anytime there’s massive consolidation, it’s not good for journalists, and it’s definitely not good for viewers, in my opinion.’

As for the changes specifically at 60 Minutes, Couric said she was also waiting.

‘It will be interesting to see how the program coalesces around new hires,’ she said. ‘We’ll see if the quality of the reporting and the quality of the pieces are still there.’

Scott Pelley – previously Couric’s CBS Evening News replacement – Cecilia Vega, Sharilyn Alfonsi, and Anderson Cooper have all exited the program in recent months, with the latter the only one going willingly.  

Cooper – a CNN anchor since 2001 – left his longtime 60 Minutes gig last May as his contract expired. 

Paramount CEO David Ellison - the man who hired Weiss in October - is now involved in CBS News' operations

Paramount CEO David Ellison – the man who hired Weiss in October – is now involved in CBS News’ operations

Scott Pelley - Couric's CBS Evening News replacement - Cecilia Vega, Sharilyn Alfonsi, and Anderson Cooper have all exited the program in recent months, with the latter the only one going willingly

Scott Pelley – Couric’s CBS Evening News replacement – Cecilia Vega, Sharilyn Alfonsi, and Anderson Cooper have all exited the program in recent months, with the latter the only one going willingly

Cooper privately told colleagues he does not want to work for Weiss, according to a report from The New York Times published in June about CNN parent Warner’s looming merger with Paramount.     

A CBS source pushed back on Couric’s categorization of CBS News, pointing out how Weiss already oversaw 60 Minutes last season and that it included a number of pieces critical of the Trump Administration.

Segments set around the impact of SNAP cuts on rural Americans, the administration’s attacks and threats on the federal judiciary, and the impact of tariffs on family farms were indeed aired during Weiss’s first year.

Couric, meanwhile, was replaced by Pelley at CBS Evening News back in 2011. She famously anchored the Today show throughout the 90s and early 2000s. She launched Katie Couric Media in 2017 and now runs a popular podcast.

The Daily Mail approached CBS News for comment.