Home Blog Page 75

Shark Swims Dangerously Close to Surfers at Southern California’s El Porto Beach

0

A shark was filmed swimming perilously close to surfers at a popular Los Angeles-area beach, with its dorsal fin cutting through shallow water only a few feet from shore.

The unsettling video, shared Friday by social media influencer Josh Hublitz, captures the animal moving through the surf at El Porto Beach in Manhattan Beach.

“Surfing with sharks in Los Angeles… I’ve actually never seen a shark in El Porto before. This is the first,” Hublitz said in an Instagram post.

“Ankle deep water. That is super sketch,” he added.

In the footage, the shark’s dorsal fin emerges above the surface as it glides through the water near the shoreline.

One Instagram user speculated that the animal could be a harmless “baby thresher,” a species known to pursue baitfish in waters close to shore.

Officials and experts have not confirmed the shark’s species.

The sighting follows a series of shark encounters reported along the Southern California coast in recent months.

On Tuesday, the Huntington Beach Fire Department shut a two-mile section of beach after an “aggressive” great white, estimated at 10 to 12 feet long, was reportedly seen circling near Lifeguard Tower 16.


In late June, a 9-foot great white was spotted off La Jolla. Officials posted warning signs, although the shark was not reported to have behaved aggressively.

The recent encounters coincide with unusually warm ocean temperatures associated with a powerful El Niño pattern, which has also been linked to a wave of unusual marine-life sightings off Southern California.

Scientists say warmer waters could be driving some shark species northward from their typical habitats and bringing them closer to heavily visited California beaches.

Two endangered olive ridley sea turtles were also found nesting on Orange County beaches near Seal Beach and Huntington Beach Pier, marking the species’ first documented nests on the West Coast.

Other rare visitors have included a hammerhead shark spotted off Malibu and venomous sea snakes seen along the Southern California coastline.

Selena Gomez Reveals Nicotine Addiction Changed Her Voice

Selena Gomez is speaking publicly about her nicotine addiction, saying years of vaping have permanently affected the sound of her voice.

“I’m not going to be able to change my voice. I vaped nicotine a lot and, just so everyone knows, that’s somewhat … vaped,” Gomez, 34, said in a candid Instagram Story posted Sunday, October 18. Describing the habit in the past tense, she added, “Nicotine is so hard to quit, and I think I just wanted to say, if you’re going through it or even if you’re trying to vape, it’s just not worth it.”

The Only Murders in the Building star, who has been photographed with a vape on multiple occasions, continued, “It’s so stupid and it’s changed my voice. So if you guys don’t like listening to my voice, that’s totally understandable. I don’t mind, just don’t listen. But I am really excited because I stopped, and I just hope I can keep it up.” Acknowledging how difficult quitting can be, Gomez offered encouragement to others: “It’s really hard, but I know if you are going through something, you can get through it too. It sucks.”

Gomez has appeared to vape for several years. She was seen with the device while preparing to marry her husband, Benny Blanco, and seemingly held a vape while getting ready to go out with Taylor Swift last year. In August 2018, she was also photographed carrying one while walking through Rome, Italy.

Selena Gomez Celebrates The Launch Of Rare Beauty's Kind Words Matte Lipstick And Liner Collection

The Only Murders in the Building star has also responded to online speculation about cosmetic procedures she was supposedly undergone over the years. Gomez, 32, commented on a TikTok posted by a physician’s assistant who works in a plastic surgeon’s office and was discussing the rumors. Although the original video dated to 2023, Gomez later shared her reaction in the comments.

Her latest comments follow months of public discussion about subtle changes in her voice. They also mark another instance of Gomez addressing concerns raised by fans online. During an Instagram Live session in December 2025, she acknowledged that viewers had noticed apparent changes in her vocals.

“There’s no excuse, I don’t really care,” she said during the December 16 livestream. “I think my point is that sometimes things happen. I get weird [or] my throat swells from the inside sometimes. That’s all.”

Gomez also said she appreciated the directness of the conversation. “I’m glad y’all are being real with me on the Live. I appreciate it though, for real,” she told viewers.

Selena Gomez's Mental Health Battle in Her Own Words 032 2nd Annual Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Gala - Arrivals, Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, Los Angeles, California, United States - 16 Oct 2022

Gomez has long been open about her mental health journey. After being diagnosed with lupus, the singer first sought treatment in 2014 and has since participated in several voluntary programs to address anxiety, panic attacks and depression. Nine months after completing treatment in January 2018, Us Weekly reported that she had continued discussing her experiences publicly.

In a more recent interview with People published September 16, Gomez reflected on the physical changes that come with growing older. She said the aging process does not frighten her.

“I don’t feel like it’s a bad thing,” she said. “Getting older has been so fun. I’m not scared at all. I love getting older. Things are going to change and things are going to sag, but you’re alive. I think age is just a number in many ways.”

After sharing her admission about nicotine, Gomez posted a playful mirror selfie wearing tortoiseshell glasses, suggesting that her day continued as usual. She later shared a fresh-faced outdoor photo showing off her glowing complexion, along with fan videos celebrating her beauty brand, Rare Beauty.

Arizona Man Accused of Plotting Mass-Casualty Attack at Religious Site Using Cookbook Linked to Oklahoma City Bombing

0

In a separate case, prosecutors say an Arizona man accused of plotting a mass-casualty attack at a Jewish or Muslim place of worship possessed a notorious bomb-making guide associated with Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh.

Matthew Bjornholt, 27, has been charged with felony terrorist threats over the alleged plan to target a religious institution.

Maricopa County prosecutors allege that Bjornholt developed a detailed plan involving firearms, explosives and a second person who would shoot at anyone left alive after the initial attack.

At a Friday court hearing, prosecutor Stephen Garcia requested a $500,000 cash bond and described Bjornholt as an immediate threat to the public, FOX 10 reported.

Matthew Bjornholt

Matthew Bjornholt, 27, is charged with felony terrorist threats in connection with the alleged plan to attack a religious site. (Maricopa County Jail)

Garcia told the court that Bjornholt allegedly mapped out an attack on a religious location. Prosecutors also said investigators found a copy of “The Anarchist Cookbook,” a controversial book featuring bomb-making instructions and historically associated with McVeigh.

According to Garcia, Bjornholt allegedly described the manual as his “Bible.”

Prosecutors said the alleged scheme called for explosives to be detonated first, followed by an accomplice using a gun to begin “picking off people.”

Authorities later recovered three firearms and ammunition from Bjornholt’s residence.

Defense attorney Chad Schell disputed the allegations, arguing that the case rests entirely on unconfirmed claims made by a former acquaintance who was upset with Bjornholt, FOX 10 reported.

Schell told the judge that the information came from a “homeless alcoholic” who had briefly stayed at Bjornholt’s home before being asked to leave late last month.

Maricopa County prosecutors allege that Bjornholt created a violent plan involving explosives, firearms and an accomplice who would shoot survivors. (Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office)

Schell said federal officials had reviewed the accusations weeks earlier. According to the defense attorney, the FBI searched Bjornholt’s home on Sept. 29, and Bjornholt voluntarily turned over his electronic devices and the passwords needed to access them.

The defense said federal investigators found no proof of terrorism or bomb-making activity and declined to bring federal charges before county authorities assumed the case several weeks later.

“There is no evidence he’s a danger to the community. What is the evidence that he’s a danger to the community? Some hearsay statements from some dude — that my client kicked out of his house two days before September 29,” Schell told the court.

“Again, the FBI served a search warrant, got all of his electronic devices. He gave them access, gave him his passwords to those devices. They went through all of those electronic devices. They didn’t see anything about terrorism. And FBI cut him loose,” he continued.

Schell further maintained that Bjornholt legally owned the three guns. He said his client’s civil rights had been restored after Bjornholt completed a sentence on a drug charge connected to a previously closed first-degree murder case. The murder allegation was dismissed because prosecutors lacked sufficient evidence, according to Schell.

The ammunition found at the residence, Schell argued, amounted only to ordinary magazine loads.

"The Anarchist Cookbook," a manual containing bomb-making instructions that has been linked to Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh.

“The Anarchist Cookbook” is a controversial manual containing bomb-making instructions and has been associated with Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

News Media has reached out to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and FBI Phoenix for comment.

Despite prosecutors citing Bjornholt’s criminal history in arguing for a larger bond, the judge said the state’s preliminary evidence relied heavily on hearsay and set Bjornholt’s bond at $100,000, according to FOX 10.

The judge nevertheless found enough probable cause to move the case forward.

It remains unclear whether specific houses of worship were targeted in the alleged plot or whether there was a specific accomplice.

Bjornholt is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 22 for a status conference and then later for a preliminary hearing on Oct. 26.

One Nation Leader Pauline Hanson Warns French-Style Protests Could Spread to Australia

0

Pauline Hanson has delivered a stark warning that Australia could see violent riots similar to those in France unless mass migration is brought to an end.

The One Nation leader said protests in France and other European countries were the result of what she described as “mass migration”.

In a social media post, Hanson wrote that migrants threatened the Australian “way of life”.

She warned that similar unrest could become common in Australian cities unless the government stopped “importing people who reject our democracy”.

“France is burning. End mass migration or the same will come to Australia,” Hanson wrote.

In an earlier post, Hanson wrote: “Australia cannot afford to repeat the mistake of mass migration which is tearing apart Europe.”

“Countries like France, Germany, Belgium and the U.K. are all suffering because of mass migration.

“Unless Australia stops importing people who reject our democracy, our way of life and the values of Western civilisation, these riots will eventually be coming to Australian cities.”

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has warned Australia could experience violent protests, like the ones sweeping Europe, if the government does not curb mass migration

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has warned Australia could face violent protests like those sweeping Europe if the government fails to curb mass migration

French President Emmanuel Macron made an impassioned appeal “for unity” after a weekend of disorder that involved more than 500,000 protesters.

During a live television address on Sunday night, Macron pledged to take action against the violence spreading across France.

“Businesses have been looted, while public buildings, shops, and town halls have been attacked,” he said.

“Looking at these images, we have all asked ourselves how French people could do this to France.”

While Macron was speaking, rioters continued clashing with police at Place de la République, or Republic Square, in central Paris.

France had endured nearly five weeks of protests, with more than half a million people taking part in demonstrations across the country on Saturday.

More than 2,400 people were arrested during the violence and looting that followed protests over high prices and inadequate public services.

Limoges Town Hall, an iconic building constructed in 1883 that survived both world wars, collapsed in flames after rioters set it alight in south-west France.

Hanson claimed protests in France, and other countries in Europe, were a consequence of 'mass migration'

Hanson said protests in France and elsewhere in Europe were a consequence of “mass migration”

France has endured almost five weeks of protests, with more than half a million people joining protests in cities across the country

France has endured almost five weeks of protests, with more than half a million people joining protests in cities across the country

More than 2,000 people arrested amid the violence and looting, with protesters burning down Limoges Town Hall on Saturday (pictured)

More than 2,000 people arrested amid the violence and looting, with protesters burning down Limoges Town Hall on Saturday (pictured) 

A video seen by 1.4 million people on X showed the building, which played a significant role in the French Resistance during the Second World War, collapsing, with its bell tower engulfed in flames.

Copycat protesters also took to the streets in other European countries including Tirana, Albania and Milan, Italy. 

Hanson’s warning comes after a Centre for Independent Studies poll on immigration showed Australians were dissatisfied with the government’s migration levels. 

In July, a poll conducted by Spectre Strategy asked 3,552 Australian voters about whether migration has had a positive impact on society.

The poll found 54 per cent believed migration has historically had a positive impact while just 25 per cent believed migration was having a positive impact today. 

Meanwhile, 52 per cent claimed migration was having a negative impact in today’s society. 

Centre for Independent Studies senior fellow Parnell Palme McGuinness claimed there was a growing mistrust of the benefits of migration.

‘The multicultural bargain is not failing because Australians have stopped believing in it,’ Ms McGuinness said.

Police carry out numerous detentions and arrests as protesters, including many young demonstrators, flee from law enforcement during protests in Milan, Italy (pictured)

Police carry out numerous detentions and arrests as protesters, including many young demonstrators, flee from law enforcement during protests in Milan, Italy (pictured)

Hanson (pictured) has proposed a net-negative migration plan for three years before re-introducing migration, which would then be capped at 130,000

Hanson (pictured) has proposed a net-negative migration plan for three years before re-introducing migration, which would then be capped at 130,000

‘It is fraying because both sides increasingly feel they are putting more into the relationship than they are getting back.’

Net overseas migration exceeded 500,000 in 2022-23 before falling to 446,000 in 2023-24.

In the year to March, migration stood at 292,100, with the Albanese government’s long-term target of 225,000. 

Opposition Leader Angus Taylor promised the Coalition would cut net overseas migration to 100,000.  

Meanwhile, One Nation has proposed a net-negative migration plan for three years before re-introducing migration, which would then be capped at 130,000.

Police Officer Attacked by Dogs While Working Sues Victoria Police

0

Few people would volunteer for a role built around being attacked by police dogs. Yet that was the job former Victoria Police Dog Squad Sergeant Hayden Bodycomb says he performed for years.

Bodycomb claims the work caused lasting physical and psychological harm, leaving him permanently unable to work.

He has now launched legal action in the Supreme Court of Victoria, alleging the state failed to protect him from serious injury while he was serving with the force.

The 50-year-old filed a writ and statement of claim on October 9. Unless the dispute is settled, the case is expected to proceed to trial in Melbourne.

The lawsuit comes only weeks after the Daily Mail reported that Victoria Police was facing mounting civil complaints, including allegations of widespread bullying by senior officers.

Bodycomb’s case centres on his work as a police dog decoy — the person who impersonates a fleeing or violent offender so dogs can be trained to pursue, bite and restrain a suspect.

According to the court documents, taking part in that training was a condition of his employment.

The claim alleges Bodycomb was subjected to “repeated attacks by police dogs”, which often sent him crashing heavily to the ground.

Former Victoria Police Dog Squad Sergeant Hayden Bodycomb (pictured) was attacked by dogs for a living. Bodycomb alleges the physical and mental toll was severe

Former Victoria Police Dog Squad Sergeant Hayden Bodycomb (pictured) says he was attacked by police dogs as part of his job, alleging the experience caused serious physical and psychological injuries

The statement of claim outlines three principal types of decoy training Bodycomb was required to undertake.

In some exercises, he wore a bite suit — protective equipment designed to shield the body from a dog’s jaws — while the animals were trained in scenarios intended to replicate real muzzle attacks.

In other drills, Bodycomb allegedly wore no bite suit, although the dogs were fitted with muzzles and the exercises continued to simulate genuine attacks.

The decoy duties also involved repeated lifting, twisting and other forms of manual handling, the claim states.

Bodycomb further alleges he was exposed to “repetitive force and strikes” affecting his neck and lower back.

He claims the cumulative impact left him with protruding discs in his lower back and neck, persistent pain, restricted movement, surgical scarring and neurological symptoms.

The former officer also alleges he developed chronic anxiety, depression, irritability, disrupted sleep and an adjustment disorder.

The documents allege those responsible for the training — including the Chief Commissioner or, alternatively, Inspector James Duggan and Senior Sergeant Paul Morgan — failed to provide adequate risk assessments, supervision, instruction and rotation of duties.

A police decoy is attacked by a dog during a training drill (stock image of a Belgian police dog biting a professional decoy during an outdoor exercise)

A police decoy is attacked by a dog during a training exercise, shown in this stock image of a Belgian police dog biting a professional decoy outdoors

Bodycomb’s claim alleges there was no proper system for monitoring his health and that concerns he raised about the work were ignored.

It also alleges Victoria Police failed to provide suitable facilities for conditioning dogs to attack people safely.

In one of the more striking allegations, the claim suggests disciplinary complaints were fabricated against him. The document gives no further detail.

He further alleges breaches of workplace safety regulations on hazardous manual handling, including a failure to use mechanical aids or alter the system of work.

The action is being spearheaded by top legal firm Maurice Blackburn, which declined to comment when contacted by the Mail. 

The claim states Bodycomb was earning $142,772 a year before tax when he last worked. 

He has been incapacitated for all employment and will remain so permanently, his lawyers have submitted.

While Bodycomb’s medical costs have been covered by WorkCover, he holds a serious injury certificate that allows him to sue for damages for pain and suffering and loss of earning capacity.

Decoys are routinely bitten by ferocious dogs as part of their training (stock image from a police demonstration in Thailand in 2014)

Decoys are routinely bitten by ferocious dogs as part of their training (stock image from a police demonstration in Thailand in 2014) 

Police dogs attend the home of mushroom killer Erin Patterson in November 2023

Police dogs attend the home of mushroom killer Erin Patterson in November 2023

He is seeking unspecified damages, with the matter to be decided by a judge alone.

In May, Bodycomb made headlines when he was found guilty of dragging a colleague along the road and resisting arrest at a police station. 

Police had stopped Bodycomb on Bungower Road in Somerville on October 4, 2023, and asked him to hand over his phone and exit his vehicle. 

He refused and said to police: ‘How about you guys f**k off?’, the Herald Sun reported then. 

He then dragged Detective Senior Sergeant Jens Bertelsen along the road while driving away when the latter put one hand inside Bodycomb’s Holden Colorado to try to switch off the ignition. 

Bodycomb, who had resigned from Victoria Police, was twice commended for bravery and promoted to sergeant in 2016. 

He appeared for sentencing in the County Court of Victoria in July, where Judge Geoff Chettle convicted and fined him $25,000.

Tom Homan Cites ‘Strong’ Evidence in Ilhan Omar Deportation Push

0

White House border czar Tom Homan has cautioned that Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar could lose her U.S. citizenship and face deportation if a federal investigation finds evidence that she committed immigration fraud.

Speaking to Fox News, Homan said investigators had developed what he described as a “strong case” against the Somali-born congresswoman, whose Washington, D.C., residence was searched by federal agents last week.

When asked whether the probe could ultimately lead to Omar’s denaturalization and removal from the United States, Homan said that possibility could not be ruled out.

“Of course,” he said, explaining that federal law provides a process for revoking citizenship if an individual lied or concealed information during the naturalization process.

“We’ve done it before, and it is a long, tedious process, but it’s been done before,” Homan said.

He added: “I’ve been involved with those investigations before, and certainly if the evidence points that way, yes, it could happen.”

Homan’s comments came as former President Barack Obama mounted an unusual defense of Omar, accusing Donald Trump’s administration of using federal power against one of its most outspoken political opponents.

The dispute intensified after the FBI searched Omar’s Washington, D.C., home last Monday. Agents reportedly seized her cellphone during an investigation into allegations concerning immigration documents linked to her family.

White House border czar Tom Homan warned that Ilhan Omar could face denaturalization and deportation if investigators uncover immigration fraud, claiming the feds have a 'strong case'

White House border czar Tom Homan said Ilhan Omar could face denaturalization and deportation if investigators uncover immigration fraud, claiming federal authorities have a “strong case”

Federal agents swooped on the Washington home of Ilhan Omar last Monday in a criminal fraud probe into how the congresswoman got into America

Federal agents searched Ilhan Omar’s Washington home last Monday as part of a criminal fraud investigation into the congresswoman’s immigration history

Barack Obama spoke out against Trump following the raid calling the investigation appalling in lengthy rant to X

Barack Obama condemned Trump after the raid, calling the investigation appalling in an extended post on X

Omar, 44, has not been charged with a crime and strongly denies any wrongdoing. She has described the investigation as a politically driven witch hunt.

Homan, however, suggested that investigators had growing confidence in the material collected during the probe.

“I’ve been told we have a strong case,” he told Fox News on Saturday. “We’ll let the evidence see where it leads. She’ll be held to the same standard you and I are held. If she violated law then she’d be held accountable.”

The border czar also portrayed the case as part of a broader effort to deter violations of U.S. immigration law.

“Deterrence is a part of what this administration is doing,” Homan said, citing reviews of refugee cases and the pursuit of denaturalization proceedings.

Pressed on whether Omar was being investigated for potential crimes beyond alleged immigration fraud, Homan declined to provide further details.

“I won’t go there,” he responded.

Homan’s remarks mark a further escalation in the politically sensitive investigation, which has drawn fierce criticism from Democrats and prompted Obama to intervene publicly on Omar’s behalf.

Former President Barack Obama mounted a rare public defense of Ilhan Omar, accusing the Trump administration of weaponizing the federal government to intimidate her

Former President Barack Obama issued a rare public defense of Ilhan Omar, accusing the Trump administration of weaponizing the federal government to intimidate her

Trump has long had a bitter feud with Omar, one of his fiercest critics in Congress, repeatedly attacking the Somali-born Democrat over her political views and immigration background

Trump has long had a bitter feud with Omar, one of his fiercest critics in Congress, repeatedly attacking the Somali-born Democrat over her political views and immigration background

Appearing on Fox News, border czar Tom Homan claimed investigators had a 'strong case' against Ilhan Omar and warned she could face deportation if immigration fraud is proven

Appearing on Fox News, border czar Tom Homan claimed investigators had a ‘strong case’ against Ilhan Omar and warned she could face deportation if immigration fraud is proven

The former president took to X on Sunday to condemn the investigation, accusing Trump of attempting to intimidate an elected official for exercising her right to criticize the White House.

‘It is a basic principle of American democracy that the government can’t selectively target individuals simply because of their political beliefs or what they say,’ Obama wrote.

‘But that’s exactly what the Trump Administration is doing to Congresswoman Ilhan Omar of Minnesota.’

Obama argued that the investigation appeared to hinge on a disputed question about Omar’s age when her father became a naturalized American citizen.

According to the former president, Omar arrived in the United States aged 12 and automatically acquired citizenship five years later when her father was naturalized.

He claimed investigators were pursuing a theory that she had actually been 18 at the time, potentially undermining her citizenship status.

‘Think about that. The full weight of the federal government is being brought down on a law-abiding elected official because she has dared to criticize the president,’ Obama wrote.

‘The fact that any president, or any administration, is willing to engage in such transparent efforts to intimidate someone should outrage all Americans, regardless of how they feel about Congresswoman Omar’s political views.’

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin revealed that multiple search warrants were executed as part of the investigation into Ilhan Omar, insisting authorities have a 'strong case'

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin revealed that multiple search warrants were executed as part of the investigation into Ilhan Omar, insisting authorities have a ‘strong case’

His intervention came after Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin revealed that multiple court-authorized search warrants had been executed on the same day as the raid on Omar’s residence.

Speaking on The Charlie Kirk Show, Mullin insisted the investigation was supported by substantial evidence and rejected accusations that Trump had ordered a political crackdown.

‘We had a judge sign it, and we expect to be able to take the case to a grand jury,’ Mullin said.

‘We wouldn’t move forward, and President Trump didn’t want to move forward either, unless we knew that it couldn’t be politically driven.’

Mullin also raised the possibility that investigators could examine potential offenses under federal racketeering laws if evidence emerged of a coordinated scheme to deceive immigration authorities.

He described a hypothetical situation involving fraudulent paperwork used to bring other people into the country.

‘Then that can be considered a RICO [Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations] case, right?’ he said.

However, no such charges have been brought against Omar, and officials have not publicly disclosed evidence establishing that she committed immigration fraud.

The investigation has revived longstanding allegations circulated by conservative critics that Omar married her brother to facilitate his immigration to the United States.

The congresswoman has repeatedly rejected those claims as ‘absurd and offensive.’

Her legal team has now demanded the immediate return of property seized during the search, accusing the Justice Department of conducting an unlawful and politically motivated investigation.

Omar’s attorneys insisted there was ‘no legitimate basis for any suggestion that she has violated any law concerning her citizenship status.’

Homeland Security Investigations police search the home of Rep. Ilhan Omar last Monday. The search was part of an ongoing criminal investigation

Homeland Security Investigations police search the home of Rep. Ilhan Omar last Monday. The search was part of an ongoing criminal investigation

HSI agents are pictured at the entrance of Omar's home last Monday

HSI agents are pictured at the entrance of Omar’s home last Monday 

Homeland Security officers carry boxes from the Washington residence of Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn. last Monday during a search of her home

Homeland Security officers carry boxes from the Washington residence of Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn. last Monday during a search of her home

They also accused federal authorities of disregarding longstanding Justice Department practices intended to prevent investigative actions from influencing elections.

‘This vindictive, retributive, and politically motivated criminal investigation into one of the President’s chief congressional critics violates Representative Omar’s constitutional rights and threatens the separation of powers,’ they wrote.

Justice Department spokesperson Emily Covington rejected the accusations, describing the lawyers’ letter as ‘riddled with false allegations and inaccuracies.’

‘Our attorneys and law enforcement partners complied with all court orders and legal obligations, as they always do,’ she said.

Trump previously denied having any involvement in the investigation, telling reporters following the search: ‘I think she’s a terrible person, but that’s really up to the DOJ.’

Man United Confidential: Leaky Roof Review, Academy Exit & Fanzone

0

GEN Korean BBQ to Sell 47 Restaurants to Chubby Group in $100 Million Deal

0

GEN, the California-founded Korean barbecue chain, is set for a major ownership change, with 47 restaurants nationwide included in a proposed $100 million sale. The incoming operator also plans to give the menu a new direction.

GEN Restaurant Group said it has reached an agreement to sell its restaurant operations to Chubby Group, the company known for its all-you-can-eat wagyu concepts Chubby Cattle and Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House.

Announced Wednesday, the transaction has not yet closed. If completed, Chubby Group would assume control of the restaurants over a 12-month period and add more wagyu-focused selections while preserving the signature GEN Korean BBQ format.

GEN operates 21 restaurants in California and expects the deal to reduce its restaurant lease obligations by roughly $160 million while helping the company wipe out its remaining debt.

After stepping back from restaurant operations, GEN intends to concentrate on its expanding Korean packaged-food division. Its products include ready-to-cook marinated meats sold at retailers including Costco and Albertsons.

The GEN brand will remain under the company’s ownership, along with three restaurants that will be used for employee training, staffing and new product development.

Chubby Group also owns or operates concepts such as Wagyu House, The X Pot and Niku X. The hospitality company has expanded into a sizable force in Asian dining, with more than 70 locations across over 25 brands.

Brandon Lee, a former Korean BBQ server, said he supports the proposed takeover. Speaking to the California Post, Lee described Chubby Group as offering a “more elegant and mature experience” than GEN.

“It is the right time for a necessary change,” said Yeshin Kim, a UCLA student and regular Korean BBQ customer.

Two Korean immigrants launched GEN in Los Angeles in 2011. Since then, the brand has grown into a national restaurant chain, with California continuing to serve as one of its key markets.

Chubby Cattle and Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House each have six California locations, giving the buyer an established presence in the state.

The companies hope to complete the transaction within 30 days, though final approval depends on regulatory clearance and the successful transfer of restaurant leases.

Fast-Moving Fire at Canadian Military Base Kills 4 Soldiers, Injures Dozens

0

Four Canadian service members were killed and dozens of others injured Sunday after a rapidly spreading wildfire engulfed troops taking part in live-fire training at a military base in Alberta, officials said.

The fire broke out Saturday at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright. Powerful winds suddenly shifted direction, driving the flames toward soldiers training nearby, according to The Associated Press.

Thirty-nine people were taken to hospitals, including 19 who were in critical condition. Eight patients were listed as stable, while 12 others were treated for less serious injuries.

Maj. Gen. Wade Rutland, commander of the Edmonton-based 1st Canadian Division, said officials had known about the fire for several hours but believed it remained sufficiently contained to allow training to continue, the AP reported.

Firefighters continue to work Wainwright, Alberta

Firefighters work to extinguish hot spots in Wainwright, Alberta, on Oct. 18, 2026. (REUTERS/Jennifer Gauthier)

“The fire was a kilometer away when the wind shifted. That is not normal for a fire to move a kilometer in 36 seconds,” Rutland said.

The cause of the blaze remained under investigation, and officials had not determined what ignited it.

The military identified those killed as Sgt. Morgan Wong and Privates Shaun Farrell, Aidan Goulding and Hayden Lykkemark, the AP reported.

Wong served with the Loyal Edmonton Regiment. Farrell, Goulding and Lykkemark were members of the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry. All four were serving with the Edmonton-based battalion.

Prime Minister Mark Carney described the fire as one of the worst peacetime tragedies to affect Canada’s armed forces on home soil, according to Reuters.

“I cannot recall such an incident in my short time for sure as a minister, but I cannot recall an incident like this in recent memory,” Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty told reporters.

The injured service members were being treated at hospitals in Wainwright, Edmonton, Red Deer and Calgary.

Air ambulances from Edmonton and Saskatoon were dispatched to the base Saturday to assist with transporting patients.

Hospitals across Alberta activated “Code Orange,” an emergency designation for mass-casualty events, as medical teams prepared to care for the wounded.

Military and civilian firefighters worked through the night to contain the flames as strong winds continued to intensify the fire.

Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Wainwright

A sign marks Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta on Oct. 18, 2026, one day after a deadly fire killed four service members and injured dozens of others. (REUTERS/Jennifer Gauthier)

The fire moved beyond the base perimeter into nearby areas, but officials said no evacuation orders were issued. By Sunday, local authorities said the blaze was not expected to expand beyond its existing boundaries.

Carney ordered flags on federal buildings across the country to be lowered to half-staff in memory of those killed and injured.

He also commended the emergency crews who fought the fire throughout the night.

Accused Killer Cop Beau Lamarre-Condon’s Final Desperate Message

0

On Friday, jurors visited Jesse Baird’s former rental property in Paddington.

They were shown the locations where the alleged murders occurred, as well as the places where important evidence was discovered.

Beau Lamarre-Condon was not present during the inspection.

Justice Natalie Adams told the jury on Thursday that viewing the property would help them understand the evidence in its proper context.

No new evidence was presented during the viewing, and the court did not sit on Friday afternoon.

The previous day, forensic biologist Lisa-Ann Wedervang told the court that Lamarre-Condon’s service firearm — alleged to be the murder weapon — contained DNA from three people.

She said Luke Davies, pictured below with Jesse Baird, was a major contributor to DNA detected on the gun’s barrel, slide and slide lock.

The court heard that Lamarre-Condon could not be excluded as a minor contributor to the DNA mixture found on the firearm.

Jurors were also told that Davies’ DNA may have been transferred to the gun if Lamarre-Condon touched his body before handling the firearm.

JESSE BAIRD and Luke DaviesWho is missing TV Jessie Baird as police officer is accused of murder.THE bodies of a missing TV presenter and his boyfriend who were said to have been shot by a jealous police officer have been recovered.The remains of Jesse Baird, 26, and Luke Davies, 29, were found in two surfboard bags at a rural property in Bungonia, Australia, more than 100 miles from Sydney where they were last seen.Mr Baird's ex-partner, senior constable Beaumont Lamarre-Condon, 28, has been charged with their murders. 14792503 14796287 15958145

Lamarre-Condon, pictured below, has claimed he fought with Davies over the gun and that Davies accidentally shot himself.

The Crown alleges instead that Lamarre-Condon shot Davies in the head through a door.

A former friend of Lamarre-Condon also told the court that she travelled from her home in Western Australia to Sydney to find celebrities and have her photograph taken with them.

She said she met Lamarre-Condon in 2010 because he was pursuing the same interest. The pair were both waiting outside Channel Seven’s Sunrise studio in Sydney for Pitbull.

According to the friend, Lamarre-Condon was particularly skilled at locating celebrities, including Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker.

She said much of their conversation centred on their shared fascination with famous people.

When Crown prosecutors asked whether they shared any interests beyond celebrities, the friend replied: “Covid, I didn’t agree with it and I used to bounce off him, ask him questions and whatnot.”

She later clarified that she opposed Covid vaccine mandates and had attended protests.

“I asked how a cop can push back against someone fighting for our freedoms, and he told me it was the devil’s work,” she told the court.

Asked if they had been close friends, she answered: “Close-ish, I thought we were.”

On February 20, the day after the alleged murders, Lamarre-Condon phoned the friend and asked whether she was available to speak.

During that call, he asked if she could ‘do him a favour’.

on now deleted post from beau Lamarre-condon

‘He told me that he’d stolen some police files from the Commissioner and he wanted me to get rid of the phone,’ she told the court.

‘I agreed to do it … I told him I lived 1.5 hours from Perth and he said I needed to be 30km away from my house when I did it … I needed to turn the phone on and off, and then throw it in the water.’

Two days later, he called the friend again. She told the court Lamarre-Condon said that two detectives had been to his mother’s house, looking for him.

‘He said he was going to be set up for two guys that had gone missing and then he went on to ask me what I had to do with the phone, and I told him what I was going to do with the phone so he could hear it.’

The friend told the court that Lamarre-Condon said he was being set up by police. She said his tone appeared ‘normal’.

Days later, she was at her sister’s house when they saw news articles about Jesse Baird and Luke Davies, and Lamarre-Condon.

She told the court there was information in the news articles about how Baird’s friends continued receiving texts from his phone, even after he died.

‘I became very concerned and went to the police,’ she said.

The friend said she approached police near her home in WA.

She never received a package from Lamarre-Condon.