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Woman Who Registered Her Dog to Vote Faces Unusual Penalty

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A California woman who registered her dog to vote and cast ballots in the animal’s name has been ordered to help finance a highly visible warning about voter fraud—featuring the same pet at the center of the case.

Laura Lee Yourex of Costa Mesa faced five felony charges after allegedly registering her dog, Maya Jean Yourex, to vote in two California elections. One was the contentious 2021 gubernatorial recall election targeting Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom.

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office said the ballot submitted in Maya’s name was counted in the 2021 recall election. A second ballot, cast under the dog’s name during the 2022 primary, was rejected and not included in the results.

The unusual voter fraud case surfaced after Yourex allegedly bragged about the scheme on social media. In one post, she shared a photograph of Maya wearing an “I voted” sticker while sitting beside a mail-in ballot.

Prosecutors said those social media posts helped bring the alleged misconduct to light. Criminal charges were ultimately filed in September 2025.

The case took an extraordinary turn when Yourex agreed to transform the evidence she had posted online into a public warning about the crime she admitted committing.

Under a plea agreement, Yourex pleaded guilty on April 10 to one count of knowingly registering a nonexistent person to vote.

She also agreed to contribute $1,500 toward four anti-voter-fraud billboards featuring the photograph of Maya wearing the “I voted” sticker.

Laura Lee Yourex, of Costa Mesa, submitted ballots in the name of her dog, Maya Jean Yourex, during California’s gubernatorial recall election in 2021 and the state’s 2022 primary election, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office

Laura Lee Yourex, of Costa Mesa, submitted ballots in the name of her dog, Maya Jean Yourex, during California’s gubernatorial recall election in 2021 and the state’s 2022 primary election, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office

The billboards deliver a direct message to drivers traveling through Orange County.

“Don’t be a dog. Voter Fraud is a Crime. If you can’t legally vote, don’t vote. The Orange County District Attorney’s Office will prosecute,” the signs state.

“As a result, the 2022 primary ballot cast in Maya Jean’s name was challenged and rejected,” the Orange County District Attorney’s Office said.

The recall effort against California Governor Gavin Newsom failed, with 61.9 percent of voters rejecting the proposal, according to the release.

Officials said the campaign aims to emphasize that registering an ineligible person to vote and submitting an unlawful ballot can carry serious criminal penalties.

Prosecutors said the billboards will remain along the 55 and 22 freeways until California’s midterm election on November 3.

The district attorney’s office also released an image of one of the billboards, placing Maya’s photograph at the heart of the public voter-fraud awareness campaign.

The investigation began on October 28, 2024, after the Orange County Registrar of Voters notified the district attorney’s office about the alleged voter fraud.

The case was fully dismissed earlier this week after Yourex pleaded guilty in April to one count of knowingly registering a nonexistent person to vote and agreeing to pay for four anti-voter billboards displaying her pet

The case was fully dismissed earlier this week after Yourex pleaded guilty in April to one count of knowingly registering a nonexistent person to vote and agreed to pay for four anti-voter-fraud billboards featuring her pet

By then, Maya had died. Prosecutors said Yourex later shared another social media post showing the dog’s identification tag next to a vote-by-mail ballot.

The alleged caption drew particular attention: “maya is still getting her ballot.”

The post became another element of the case against Yourex, whose conduct prosecutors said she had openly discussed online.

In a sworn statement included in her plea agreement, Yourex acknowledged registering the animal as a voter.

‘On or about 5/7/20, in Orange County, I did willfully and unlawfully cause an animal, to wit: a dog, to be registered as a voter, knowing that animal was not entitled to registration as a nonexistent person, and mailed and delivered that affidavit to a county elections official,’ she wrote.

Although Yourex initially faced five felony charges, the case was fully dismissed earlier this week following her guilty plea and agreement to fund the billboard campaign, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.

The resolution brings an end to a case that began with an election office referral and escalated after prosecutors examined the woman’s social media activity.

The outcome also leaves a lasting public reminder of the consequences of attempting to circumvent election laws with Maya’s photograph serving as an unlikely warning to would-be offenders. 

Trump recently slammed mail-in ballots as 'fraud' and publicly said he wanted to sign an executive order outlawing the voting method

Trump recently slammed mail-in ballots as ‘fraud’ and publicly said he wanted to sign an executive order outlawing the voting method

Join the discussion

Should voter fraud penalties use public shaming, or does this go too far in deterring future crimes?

The story comes after the Trump administration filed a lawsuit against the Orange County Registrar of Voters Bob Page in June for allegedly refusing to provide the Justice Department with records pertaining to the removal of people lacking documentation from its voter registration list, the Seattle Times reported.

Trump recently slammed mail-in ballots as ‘fraud’ and publicly said he wanted to sign an executive order outlawing the voting method.

The president snubbed the expansion of mail-in voting in the 2020 election to accommodate for the pandemic.

He declared mail-in ballots created widespread ‘fraud’ that he claims is to blame for his loss to Joe Biden.

But four years later during his successful 2024 campaign, he repeatedly pushed his supporters to embrace voting by mail.

The pendulum swung again when the president took to his Truth Social to slam the idea of voting in elections by mail ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Trump said he will be ‘leading a movement to get rid of mail-in ballots’ and overhaul voting machines that he claims were used by Democrats to steal that 2020 election for Joe Biden.

He did not give a timeline for issuance of an executive order on ending the voting method, though it’s likely to come before the 2026 midterm elections as Republicans aim to hold onto their majorities in the House and Senate.

Video emerged showing a local lawmaker and an accomplice stuffing papers into a ballot drop box in Michigan ahead of local elections.

At the White House on August 18, Trump reiterated his post, claiming: ‘We’ve got to stop mail-in voting and Republicans have to lead the charge.’

‘The Democrats want it because they have horrible policy,’ he told reporters gathered in the Oval Office for the president’s meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. ‘If you have mail-in voting, you’re not going to have many Democrats get elected.’

‘That’s bigger than anything having to do with redistricting, believe me. And the Republicans have to get smart,’ he concluded.

Trump kicked off his rant by claiming that the US is the ‘only country in the world that uses mail-in voting.’

‘All others gave it up because of the massive voter fraud encountered,’ Trump claimed.

But many nations use mail-in voting – including countries whose leaders are convening at the White House.

Some countries that have no-excuse mail-in voting, meaning they do not need a reason to vote by mail rather than in person, are Canada, Germany, New Zealand, Norway, South Korea, Spain, and many others.

There are also many countries that offer conditional or limited mail-in voting options.

Trump, despite pushing mail-in voting and early voting on his supporters in the 2024 election, says that Democrats are using the ‘mail-in ballot hoax’ because they can’t win elections through traditional in-person voting.

‘Democrats are virtually unelectable without using this completely disproven mail-in scam,’ Trump wrote on Truth Social.

He added: ‘Elections can never be honest with mail-in ballots/voting, and everybody, in particular the Democrats, knows this.’

Kylie Jenner Commands the Runway at 2026 Victoria’s Secret Show

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The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show made a glamorous return to Los Angeles on Sunday, marking the lingerie brand’s first show in the city in 19 years. Sony Studios in Culver City, California, provided the setting for an evening filled with dazzling designs and headline-making runway moments.

Kylie Jenner, 29, made her highly anticipated Victoria’s Secret runway debut in the brand’s $50 million fantasy bra, covered in glittering gemstones. The iconic piece returned to the runway for the first time since 2018.

She completed the striking ensemble with a transparent mini skirt, silver underwear, clear heels and a pair of dramatic white angel wings.

From the front row, Jenner received enthusiastic support from her boyfriend, Timothee Chalamet, and her mother, Kris Jenner.

The star-studded lineup also included two of Victoria’s Secret’s most recognizable models: sisters Gigi and Bella Hadid.

Bella Hadid, 30, opened the runway in a sparkling multicolored embellished bra, coordinating wings and a sheer green mini skirt.

Kylie Jenner, 29, stunned viewers as she made her Victoria's Secret runway debut on Sunday

Kylie Jenner, 29, made a memorable Victoria’s Secret runway debut during Sunday’s fashion show

She wowed in the brand's gemstone-encrusted $50 million fantasy bra

She commanded attention in the brand’s gemstone-covered $50 million fantasy bra

The event got off to a show-stopping start as Bella Hadid, 30, strutted down the runway

Bella Hadid, 30, launched the star-studded show with a dramatic runway appearance

She was soon joined by sister Gigi Hadid, 31, who wowed in a pair of silver fringe wings

Gigi Hadid, 31, followed in eye-catching silver fringe wings

Gigi, 31, soon joined the action, wearing a silver top with blue-and-pink underwear and showstopping silver wings trimmed with fringe.

Victoria’s Secret veteran Adriana Lima, 45, highlighted her figure in an eye-catching lime-green lace bodysuit.

Swedish model Elsa Hosk, 37, brought classic bombshell style to the catwalk in a pink corset featuring sweeping, dramatic sleeves.

Barbara Palvin, 33, also made her return to the Victoria’s Secret runway, appearing just six weeks after welcoming her first child with husband Dylan Sprouse.

South African star Candice Swanepoel, 37, showcased her long legs in a sleek pink bodysuit.

Alessandra Ambrosio, 45, raised the glamour stakes with a pink bra styled with a dramatic, voluminous skirt.

Vittoria Ceretti, 28, the girlfriend of Leonardo DiCaprio, made a bold impression in a matching brown bodysuit and oversized brown wings.

Ashley Graham, 38, delighted fans in a vibrant pink bodysuit finished with playful floral wings.

Irina Shayk, 40, added another memorable look to the show in a revealing pink slip dress.

Before the models appeared, the show opened with a teaser featuring Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen, 46, posing in delicate pink lingerie.

The iconic event also featured musical performances from Megan Thee Stallion, Katseye, Megan Moroney and Tate McRae.

A major moment will be the reveal and runway debut of Victoria’s Secret’s newest Angel, who was recently discovered through the brand’s YouTube streaming series Angels Among Us.

Jenner's look was paired with a sheer mini skirt and white wings

Jenner’s look was paired with a sheer mini skirt and white wings

She wore a pair of clear heels for the big moment

She wore a pair of clear heels for the big moment

The reality TV star was cheered on by boyfriend Timothee Chalamet and mom Kris Jenner who watched her from the front row

The reality TV star was cheered on by boyfriend Timothee Chalamet and mom Kris Jenner who watched her from the front row

Bella wore a dazzling multicolored embellished bra and matching wings, paired with a sheer green mini skirt

Bella wore a dazzling multicolored embellished bra and matching wings, paired with a sheer green mini skirt

Bella later returned in a sheer white dress and matching theatrical wings

Bella later returned in a sheer white dress and matching theatrical wings 

Her look featured an ombre skirt that trailed behind her

Her look featured an ombre skirt that trailed behind her

She was joined by singer Tate McRae

She was joined by singer Tate McRae

Victoria's Secret's veteran Adriana Lima, 45, who flaunted her incredible figure in a lace lime bodysuit

The sultry look was paired with green heels

Victoria’s Secret’s veteran Adriana Lima, 45, who flaunted her incredible figure in a lace lime bodysuit

Swedish beauty Elsa Hosk, 37, exuded bombshell glamour in a pink corset with dramatic flowing sleeves

Swedish beauty Elsa Hosk, 37, exuded bombshell glamour in a pink corset with dramatic flowing sleeves

Her hair was styled in bouncy locks

Her hair was styled in bouncy locks 

South African model Candice Swanepoel, 37, stunned on the runway in a pink bodysuit that showed off her long legs

South African model Candice Swanepoel, 37, stunned on the runway in a pink bodysuit that showed off her long legs

Alessandra Ambrosio, 45, sent temperatures soaring as she walked the show in a pink bra and voluminous skirt

Alessandra Ambrosio, 45, sent temperatures soaring as she walked the show in a pink bra and voluminous skirt

She blew a kiss for the audience

She blew a kiss for the audience 

Russian bombshell Irina Shayk, 40, got hearts racing in a pink slip dress

Russian bombshell Irina Shayk, 40, got hearts racing in a pink slip dress

Russian bombshell Irina Shayk, 40, got hearts racing in a pink slip dress

Barbara Palvin, 33, returned to the Victoria's Secret runway just six weeks after giving birth to her first child with husband Dylan Sprouse

Barbara Palvin, 33, returned to the Victoria’s Secret runway just six weeks after giving birth to her first child with husband Dylan Sprouse

She stunned in a sheer pink slip dress

She stunned in a sheer pink slip dress

Leonardo DiCaprio's girlfriend Vittoria Ceretti, 28, took the runway by storm in a pair of dramatic brown wings and matching bodysuit

Leonardo DiCaprio’s girlfriend Vittoria Ceretti, 28, took the runway by storm in a pair of dramatic brown wings and matching bodysuit

Plus size beauty Ashley Graham, 38, thrilled in a pink bodysuit and whimsical floral wings

Plus size beauty Ashley Graham, 38, thrilled in a pink bodysuit and whimsical floral wings

The show marked its third year back following a six-year hiatus that threatened the future of the iconic lingerie brand.   

However, the excitement hasn’t been entirely without controversy, as some big names were noticeably snubbed from the glittering line-up of models. 

Earlier this month, fans of the show vowed to boycott the event after several beloved supermodels were rejected from walking the catwalk.

Country darling Megan Moroney performed at the show

Country darling Megan Moroney performed at the show

McRae performed in red lingerie with a number of matching backup dancers

McRae performed in red lingerie with a number of matching backup dancers

The show kicked off with a teaser video of Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen, 46

The show kicked off with a teaser video of Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen, 46

She was seen posing in delicate pink lingerie before the models took the runway.

She was seen posing in delicate pink lingerie before the models took the runway.

Romee Strijd, 31, was among the first to detail her last-minute rejection from appearing at the show.

She took to TikTok to explain that she had attended the casting call in New York in September.

‘I trained for it this summer because I had to put a bit more energy in it since I’ve got two kids and you know how it goes – your body needs a little bit more working out than before. I felt like I wanted to do the show again even after kids because it felt like the right timing.’

Strijd, who appeared in the brand’s annual fashion show from 2014 to 2018, claimed that she then did not hear back from organizers ‘for weeks,’ which had been a ‘rollercoaster’ and ‘mentally exhausting.’

But less than an hour later, the beauty took to the video-sharing platform again with a tearful update and explained that she had just received a rejection from appearing at the show.

Re-enacting her conversation with her agent, she said she was told: ‘You were great, but they thought you wouldn’t fit in the show this year.’

The Dutch supermodel said there was confusion over the reasons behind her being turned down but that she had ‘closed the chapter.’

‘I don’t think I am going to cast any more in the future [for Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show] because I don’t like the way it went, I don’t like how the whole process went, I don’t like the way I was treated and I would love to keep the positive memories of VS,’ she concluded.

Gigi Hadid, 31, was pictured wearing a gold band on her ring finger on Sunday as she prepared backstage for the 2026 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Gigi Hadid, 31, was pictured wearing a gold band on her ring finger on Sunday as she prepared backstage for the 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show

The supermodel flashed a smile while getting her makeup done, with the ring on her finger adding fuel to ongoing rumors she secretly tied the knot with Bradley Cooper, 51

The supermodel flashed a smile while getting her makeup done, with the ring on her finger adding fuel to ongoing rumors she secretly tied the knot with Bradley Cooper, 51

She looked chic in a black halter neck top and blue jeans, with her long blond hair cascading down her shoulders

She looked chic in a black halter neck top and blue jeans, with her long blond hair cascading down her shoulders

She chatted with interviewers ahead of the show

She chatted with interviewers ahead of the show

Cooper's ex, model Irina Shayk, 40, with whom he shares daughter Lea, nine, was backstage getting ready as well

Cooper’s ex, model Irina Shayk, 40, with whom he shares daughter Lea, nine, was backstage getting ready as well

Alessandra Ambrosio, 45, sizzled in a bra as she got her hair done

Alessandra Ambrosio, 45, sizzled in a bra as she got her hair done 

Ambrosio and Adriana Lima, 45, were pictured at the Sony Pictures Studio as they prepared for the show

Ambrosio and Adriana Lima, 45, were pictured at the Sony Pictures Studio as they prepared for the show

Lima rocked hair rollers and a fresh-faced look

Lima rocked hair rollers and a fresh-faced look 

The ladies had a blast ahead of the show

The ladies had a blast ahead of the show

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, 39, was also seen getting her hair and makeup done

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, 39, was also seen getting her hair and makeup done 

Plus size model Ashley Graham rocked a black jacket embroidered with her name and angel wings

Plus size model Ashley Graham rocked a black jacket embroidered with her name and angel wings

Abby Champion was pictured getting her bombshell curls styled ahead of the show

Abby Champion was pictured getting her bombshell curls styled ahead of the show

Jude Law's daughter Iris Law, 25, was also in attendance

Jude Law’s daughter Iris Law, 25, was also in attendance 

The late Kobe Bryant's daughter Natalia Bryant, 23, was seen preparing in a pink robe and cozy slippers

The late Kobe Bryant’s daughter Natalia Bryant, 23, was seen preparing in a pink robe and cozy slippers

And she wasn’t the only one. Fellow former angel Frida Aasen, 31, commented on Strijd’s video with an update of her own.

The Norwegian beauty, who walked in 2017 and 2018, wrote: ‘I’m so sad you didn’t get it! I also went to the casting and it was a no. It sucks but sending you lots of love.’

As news of their absences began to circulate on social media, dozens of fashion lovers vowed to boycott the show.

‘Doesn’t fit with the show?! You ARE the show,’ one wrote.

‘I’m devastated. You literally embody angel energy, there’s so many other people out here rooting for you, this is so unprofessional having you there would’ve been such a highlight!’ another added.

The show, which debuted in 1995, returned in 2024 following a six-year hiatus. Last year’s runway featured familiar faces including Hadid and Lima, the brand’s longest-serving Angel. 

WNBA star Angel Reese made history as the first professional athlete to walk in the show, while Jasmine Tookes showed off her baby bump on the runway.

For decades, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was one of the most coveted runway events.

It first kicked off in 1995 and immediately attracted immense buzz, with some of the biggest models on the globe walking in the fashion show.

By 2001 it was being broadcast live on television, and each year, millions tuned in to watch the stunning models strut their stuff and the A-list performers dazzle on stage.

Earlier this month, Romee Strijd, 31, fought back tears as she revealed that she's been cut from the Victoria's Secret catwalk show with just one week's notice for 'not being a good fit'

Earlier this month, Romee Strijd, 31, fought back tears as she revealed that she’s been cut from the Victoria’s Secret catwalk show with just one week’s notice for ‘not being a good fit’

Pictured on the runway in 2018

Pictured on the runway in 2018

For decades, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which debuted in 1995, was one of the most coveted runway events; Bundchen walks the runway in 2005

For decades, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, which debuted in 1995, was one of the most coveted runway events; Bundchen walks the runway in 2005 

Tyra Banks pictured at the Victoria's Secret Spring 1998 fashion show

Tyra Banks pictured at the Victoria’s Secret Spring 1998 fashion show

But in 2019, after more than two decades of it reigning supreme, the annual show was canceled amidst immense criticism over the brand’s lack of diversity when it comes to body types before then-chief marketing officer Ed Razek’s eyebrow-raising comments about trans and plus-sized models.

In 2024, the Angels returned to the catwalk after a six year hiatus with a more diverse roster including plus-size models, such as Ashley Graham, and transgender models.

However, the show was derided as lackluster and lacking the traditional glamour for which the brand was known. 

By 2025, Victoria’s Secret’s new CEO Hillary Super announced plans to return to its ‘unapologetically sexy’ branding and move away from its woke rebrand.

The lingerie company embraced its bombshell roots after years of struggling sales and a tepid response to its diverse catwalk the year prior.

Air Force Member Killed in Alamodome Rappelling Ceremony

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SAN ANTONIO, Texas — An Air Force service member has died after being critically injured during a pregame rappelling demonstration at San Antonio’s Alamodome on Saturday, authorities said. The event was held as part of a college football ceremony honoring members of the armed forces and military veterans.

The accident happened shortly before kickoff of the game between Navy and the University of Texas at San Antonio.

“Once the band started playing, there was a guy that fell down,” Adrian Corey, a witness among the more than 23,000 fans at the game, told ABC San Antonio affiliate KSAT.

Witnesses said the airman was one of three service members taking part in a descent from the Alamodome ceiling, roughly 170 feet above the floor.

Corey, who captured the incident on his cellphone, said spectators realized something had gone wrong when the airman, whose identity has not been released, “started coming down fast.”

San Antonio Fire Department spokesman Joe Arrington said firefighters were dispatched to the Alamodome at about 7 p.m. local time after receiving a report that someone had fallen during the pregame ceremony. The injured service member was taken to a hospital in life-threatening condition, Arrington told ABC News.

A spokesperson for Nellis Air Force Base later confirmed that the airman died at the hospital.

The service member was assigned to the 6th

Kaprizov, Wallstedt Help Minnesota Wild Beat Blue Jackets 2-1

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ST. PAUL, Minn. – Kirill Kaprizov scored his NHL-leading 10th goal to break a second-period deadlock, while Jesper Wallstedt made 13 saves as the Minnesota Wild defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 2-1 on Sunday night.

Danila Yurov also found the net for Minnesota, which leads the Central Division and improved to 6-2-1.

Adam Fantilli scored Columbus’ lone goal, while Cam Talbot finished with 32 saves.

Kaprizov put the Wild ahead 3:06 into the second period with a power-play goal, beating Talbot high on the shoulder from the bottom of the left faceoff circle.

The goaltenders set the tone early. Wallstedt stopped Connor Garland on a breakaway two minutes into the game, and Talbot followed with three saves during Columbus’ successful kill of a 1:52-long 5-on-3 power play.

Minnesota opened the scoring late in the first period after Yakov Trenin picked off a turnover at the Columbus blue line. Trenin drove toward the net, beat a defender and sent a delicate pass across the slot to Yurov, who tapped it in.

The Blue Jackets answered a minute later during a delayed penalty. Fantilli’s slap shot found its way through traffic and past Wallstedt to make it 1-1.

Up next

Blue Jackets: Host Toronto on Tuesday night.

Wild: Visit Edmonton on Tuesday night to begin a five-game road trip.

___

See AP’s full NHL coverage here

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Mass Shooting Shakes California City as Police Descend on Home

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One person was killed and six others were injured in a mass shooting at a home in Eastvale, California, authorities said.

Riverside County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to the residence in the 7000 block of Morning Hills Drive shortly before 11:15 p.m. Saturday after receiving reports of a possible shooting.

When deputies arrived, they found seven people suffering from gunshot wounds. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Paramedics took the six remaining victims to nearby trauma centers for medical treatment.

The deceased victim’s identity has not been released. Authorities also have not disclosed the conditions of the six survivors who were hospitalized.

Investigators have not released descriptions of any suspects, and no arrests have been announced.

The investigation remains active and ongoing.

The Truth About Supermarket Wagyu and Burger King’s £11 Patty

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Melbourne Imam Says Husbands Can Rape and Beat Their Wives in Sermon

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A prominent Melbourne imam has apologised after a decades-old sermon resurfaced online in which he told men they could hit their wives to “shape them up”.

Samir Mohtadi founded and leads the MyCentre mosque in Broadmeadows, which recently came under scrutiny over alleged connections to Hamam al-Hammami, a Flydubai co-pilot accused of trying to hijack and crash an Israel-bound passenger plane on September 30.

The United Arab Emirates’ top prosecutor said earlier this month that al-Hammami met people linked to MyCentre while studying at Melbourne’s Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in 2017.

Mr Mohtadi strongly denied any connection between al-Hammami and MyCentre. Days later, footage of a contentious sermon delivered more than 20 years ago began circulating again.

In the 2003 address, titled “The Keys to a Successful Marriage”, Mr Mohtadi offered guidance to married couples. He urged women to wear “perfume” and keep their homes “nice and clean”, while saying wives who disobeyed their husbands “will go to hell”.

He also discussed circumstances in which he believed men could physically discipline their wives.

“This is the last resort, advise her for a long, long time, then you smack them, you beat them …. you are not allowed to bruise them, you are not allowed to make them bleed, it is haram (forbidden),” he said.

“If you disobey your husband you will go to hell, it is as simple as that.”

MyCentre founder Samir Mohtadi (pictured with MP Kathleen Matthews-Ward and then Victorian Police Minister, Anthony Carbines) has apologised for comments made in an old sermon which have resurfaced

MyCentre founder Samir Mohtadi (pictured with MP Kathleen Matthews-Ward and then Victorian Police Minister, Anthony Carbines) has apologised for comments made in an old sermon which have resurfaced

In the 2003 sermon, Mr Mohtadi gave instructions on how men should beat their wives

In the 2003 sermon, Mr Mohtadi gave instructions on how men should beat their wives

The sermon, which was uploaded to YouTube in 2013, also addressed when women should have sex with their husbands and challenged Australian laws concerning rape.

“In this country, if the husband wants to sleep with his wife and she does not want to she hasn’t got (inaudible) she just doesn’t feel like it and he ends up sleeping with her by force it is known to be as a rape. Amazing, how can a person rape his wife?” he said.

“Even if her husband was to ask her for a sexual relationship and she is preparing the bread on the stove she must leave it and come and respond to her husband.”

The sermon remains available online and first attracted widespread attention in 2009, when then-prime minister Kevin Rudd condemned Mr Mohtadi’s remarks.

“Under no circumstances is sexual violence permissible or acceptable in Australia,” Mr Rudd said at the time.

“Australia will not tolerate these sort of remarks. They don’t belong in modern Australia, and he should stand up, repudiate them and apologise.”

In a statement released on Saturday, Mr Mohtadi responded to the resurfaced comments, saying he had been answering questions during a lecture.

“Throughout my more than 30 years of community service, I have consistently opposed all forms of violence, particularly family violence and violence against women,” the statement said.

On Saturday, Samir Mohtadi publicly apologised for his previous comment

On Saturday, Samir Mohtadi publicly apologised for his previous comment

His comments resurfaced after MyCentre recently made headlines over alleged links to Hamam al-Hammami, the Flydubai co-pilot accused of attempting to hijack and crash an Israel-bound passenger jet last month

His comments resurfaced after MyCentre recently made headlines over alleged links to Hamam al-Hammami, the Flydubai co-pilot accused of attempting to hijack and crash an Israel-bound passenger jet last month

‘There is no place for violence against women in our homes and communities.

‘Family violence is a crime and we all have responsibility to prevent it.  

‘I sincerely apologise for my past comments.

‘My commitment to preventing family violence and supporting the safety and dignity of women and families remains unwavering.’ 

The Daily Mail has contacted MyCentre for further comment.

It comes after Mr Mohtadi distanced MyCentre and himself from alleged associations with al-Hammami.

‘I have never met al-Hammami… and we have no record of him ever attending our centre,’ he said last week.

‘The relevant authorities should have verified these claims with me before releasing or publishing such information.’

Hamam al-Hammami (pictured) began drifting towards extremism while studying in Melbourne almost a decade ago, according to a top United Arab Emirates prosecutor

Hamam al-Hammami (pictured) began drifting towards extremism while studying in Melbourne almost a decade ago, according to a top United Arab Emirates prosecutor

The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils added: ‘Attempts to associate MyCentre with terrorism are misleading, harmful and inconsistent with the facts.’

MyCentre previously received several substantial grants from the Victorian Labor Government.

Trump Hails Ukraine Peace Deal, Slams Zelensky Over Refinery Strikes

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President Donald Trump says negotiations aimed at ending the war between Russia and Ukraine are advancing, while sharply criticizing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over attacks on Russian oil facilities that he says are disrupting diesel markets worldwide.

In an extended Truth Social post on Sunday afternoon, Trump claimed he was making meaningful progress toward ending the four-and-a-half-year conflict. He warned that imposing new sanctions on Moscow could undermine those efforts.

His most pointed remarks, however, were directed at Zelenskyy. Trump accused the Ukrainian president of fueling the conflict while contributing to higher energy costs and placing additional pressure on American farmers, ranchers and businesses.

“I am in the process of negotiating Peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine, and don’t want to do anything that will drive, foolishly, Russia away from the bargaining table,” Trump wrote.

“Great progress is being made, and that includes current hostage negotiations!”

Trump’s remarks came after Ukraine launched one of its largest drone attacks of the war, sending more than 1,000 drones toward targets inside Russia and setting oil infrastructure in St. Petersburg on fire.

The statement also represented Trump’s strongest defense so far of his decision Friday to delay the immediate rollout of additional sanctions against Russia, a move that has drawn criticism from members of both parties.

“My decision on Russia is a very simple one,” Trump wrote, arguing that increased economic pressure could push Russian President Vladimir Putin away from negotiations.

“Signing that document at this time will do that, and I can sign it later, or any time that I want!”

In an extraordinary Truth Social tirade on Sunday afternoon, Trump insisted he was making headway in negotiations to end the four-and-a-half-year conflict

In an extraordinary Truth Social post Sunday, Trump said negotiations to end the four-and-a-half-year war were moving forward

Trump says major progress is being made in peace negotiations with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, insisting fresh sanctions against Moscow could derail efforts to end the war in Ukraine

Trump says peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin are making significant progress and cautions that new sanctions could jeopardize efforts to end the Ukraine war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has come under fire from Trump for targeting Russian oil refineries, with the US president accusing him of damaging global diesel markets

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has drawn Trump’s criticism over strikes on Russian oil refineries, which the US president says are harming global diesel markets

Trump also connected his Russia policy to the intensifying standoff with Iran. He argued that Moscow was providing Tehran with considerably less support than it could offer.

“Russia is doing very little, if anything, to help the Islamic Republic of Iran, compared to what they could be doing, and I want to keep it that way, and will, unless stupid people get in the way,” he wrote.

Zelenskyy, though, became the central target of Trump’s anger.

The president said Ukraine was knowingly striking Russian diesel refineries despite the potential consequences for fuel supplies around the world.

“Zelenskyy is using Diesel Refineries in Russia as a target, knowing that these attacks are seriously hurting the world diesel markets, including those in the United States,” Trump wrote.

“Farmers, ranchers, and businesses of all kinds are suffering greatly from this.”

Trump added that Russia was still sending millions of barrels of diesel into international markets at reduced prices.

He did not provide evidence or specific figures to substantiate his claims about the effect of Ukraine’s strikes on the economy.

Smoke billows into the sky following Ukrainian drone strikes on an industrial zone in St. Petersburg, Russia, on Sunday

Smoke billows into the sky following Ukrainian drone strikes on an industrial zone in St. Petersburg, Russia, on Sunday

Ukraine launched a massive drone attack on Putin's home city of St Petersburg, striking the port, power stations, hitting a bridge and forcing Pulkovo airport passengers into shelters

Ukraine launched a massive drone attack on Putin’s home city of St Petersburg, striking the port, power stations, hitting a bridge and forcing Pulkovo airport passengers into shelters

Part of Ukraine's drone attack hit the Korabelny Fairway Bridge in St. Petersburg, Russia

Part of Ukraine’s drone attack hit the Korabelny Fairway Bridge in St. Petersburg, Russia

The president painted a devastating picture of Ukraine's position, describing its territory as shattered and its population decimated by years of fighting. Trump is pictured on Saturday

The president painted a devastating picture of Ukraine’s position, describing its territory as shattered and its population decimated by years of fighting. Trump is pictured on Saturday

Trump then escalated his criticism into a deeply personal broadside against Zelensky, accusing him of having little interest in securing peace.

‘Zelensky doesn’t care, and frankly, with all of the money that Europe is famously giving him, and that Crooked Joe Biden gave him in the past, he doesn’t want to end this war, and probably never did,’ Trump declared.

‘He could have made a better deal two years ago than he can now.’

The president painted a devastating picture of Ukraine’s position, describing its territory as shattered and its population decimated by years of fighting.

‘His country is in shambles, a large portion of his land is lost, his oceans and seas are gone, and his male population is low, wounded, and/or dead,’ Trump wrote.

He ended his post with an emphatic declaration: ‘I WANT THIS WAR END!’

The extraordinary attack came just hours after Zelensky appeared on NBC’s Meet the Press, where he warned that Trump’s decision to waive sanctions could hand Putin a dangerous advantage.

The Ukrainian president argued that Washington siding with Moscow would amount to a ‘historic mistake.’

‘We can’t compare me and Putin. He’s (an) aggressor. He occupied us. He killed adults and children, his soldiers,’ Zelensky said.

‘He’s a terrorist. And that’s why I hope that President Trump will be very clear with this position.’

Local people at the site of a Russian strike on a residential area in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine this weekend, amid the ongoing Russian invasion. At least five people, including a child, were hurt

Local people at the site of a Russian strike on a residential area in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine this weekend, amid the ongoing Russian invasion. At least five people, including a child, were hurt

Ukrainian rescuers work at the site of a Russian strike on a residential area in Zaporizhzhia

Ukrainian rescuers work at the site of a Russian strike on a residential area in Zaporizhzhia

The massive strike by Russia in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine injured five people including a child

The massive strike by Russia in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine injured five people including a child

A man looks at a residential building damaged after a Russian airstrike in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, on Saturday

A man looks at a residential building damaged after a Russian airstrike in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, on Saturday

Zelensky also revealed that intelligence sharing between Washington and Kyiv had resumed following a temporary interruption.

The diplomatic confrontation unfolded against a backdrop of escalating violence.

Russian authorities said Ukraine launched 1,015 drones across 15 Russian regions, occupied Crimea and the Black Sea on Sunday.

In St. Petersburg, strikes ignited fires at the Petersburg Oil Terminal and the Ruchi oil depot, killing one person and injuring five others, according to regional governor Alexander Beglov.

A logistics facility belonging to Russian retailer Ozon and a data center operated by technology company VK were also targeted.

Meanwhile, Russian attacks on Ukraine continued, with a woman killed and a six-year-old girl among those injured in strikes on Zaporizhzhia.

The latest bloodshed has raised fresh questions about an ‘energy ceasefire’ Trump announced on October 11, claiming both countries had agreed to halt attacks on energy infrastructure.

Kyiv initially said it was observing the arrangement, but subsequently reported continued Russian attacks and resumed its own strikes after a three-day pause.

People watch the burning oil terminal following an air attack in St. Petersburg on Sunday

People watch the burning oil terminal following an air attack in St. Petersburg on Sunday

Russia shot down dozens of Ukrainian drones near St Petersburg, authorities said on Sunday with an oil terminal hit and flights disrupted at one of the country's busiest airports

Russia shot down dozens of Ukrainian drones near St Petersburg, authorities said on Sunday with an oil terminal hit and flights disrupted at one of the country’s busiest airports

On Sunday, Zelensky claimed that Russia had attacked Ukrainian energy, oil and gas facilities 76 times over the last week, leaving tens of thousands of families without electricity.

‘America should see that Russia is not taking any reciprocal steps in response to sanctions relief or agreements,’ he warned.

Despite the increasingly bitter public confrontation, diplomatic contacts continued with Zelensky revealing that he had spoken to Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner about negotiations held in Miami on October 9 and the next steps toward peace.

The exchanges underscore the difficult balancing act facing Washington as Trump seeks a diplomatic breakthrough while the two warring nations continue pounding each other’s infrastructure.

UC Santa Barbara Alpha Phi Sorority Scandal: New Details Emerge

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A racism scandal that sparked a fierce revolt inside a prominent California sorority house has intensified, with angry members staging walkouts and potential recruits urging others to stay away.

The turmoil at the University of California, Santa Barbara’s Alpha Phi chapter has also spilled online, where criticism surged soon after last month’s recruitment process ended.

In late September, Alpha Phi’s page on the popular fraternity and sorority review platform GreekRank was flooded with one-star ratings accusing the chapter of pervasive racism.

Anonymous reviewers cautioned prospective members about what they described as a hostile chapter culture. Several posts specifically referenced walkouts by current members protesting the treatment of women of color.

One late-September review, which has received 269 upvotes, issued a stark warning to incoming freshmen: “We’re literally having walk outs and other major issues because of racism during and before recruitment… NOT a good place for people of color or anyone who cares about them or their treatment.”

Another review posted around the same time and backed by 213 upvotes delivered a similar message: “The racism is crazy. do not recommend if ur a poc. needs to be held accountable. going against everything that greek life stands for here.” 

The online backlash has followed a chaotic fall recruitment season at a university widely known for its party culture. Active members reportedly became concerned after prospective minority candidates were systematically removed from consideration, while current members of color were pushed away from key recruitment responsibilities.

The internal rebellion began after an outside volunteer recruitment adviser working with representatives from Alpha Phi International was accused of taking control of the chapter’s selection decisions without members’ knowledge.

Following the first cut on September 26, the number of potential recruits fell from approximately 1,200 to 250. Active members then noticed that numerous highly rated candidates from diverse backgrounds had disappeared from the process without an explanation. 

At the same time, active sisters of color were excluded from recruitment rounds. Sky Achola, a Black Alpha Phi member, said nearly every woman of color in her family group had been removed from recruitment duties.


“Honestly, I felt sick to my stomach,” Alpha Phi President Alana Nielsen said, describing the pattern. “I couldn’t imagine letting the day end without giving our members an opportunity to speak.”

When national representatives reportedly proposed ending recruitment with a dance party to leave the chapter on a “happy note,” Nielsen rejected the idea and called for a meeting of the entire chapter.

The gathering quickly turned into a confrontation.

Inside the sorority house, members cried, shouted and demanded answers from visiting corporate representatives, pressing them to explain why diverse candidates had been removed from consideration.

Emerson Novosel, the chapter’s recruitment director, said the scene felt “like a revolution happening right now.”

“Once one woman stood up, it empowered others to do the same,” Nielsen said. “That was incredibly powerful to witness.” The volunteer adviser at the center of the dispute left her position shortly afterward.

Although national officials offered basic emotional support, Nielsen said the chapter would not accept public-relations gestures in place of meaningful action. 

“Moving forward doesn’t mean moving on without accountability,” she said.

The events at the UCSB Alpha Phi house stand in sharp contrast to the national organization’s stated commitments.

Alpha Phi International’s website prominently features its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or DEI, initiatives, including mandatory programs titled “Stand Together” and “Understanding Self and Others.” 

According to the national organization, these initiatives are designed to guide advisers and shape recruitment toward an inclusive, anti-racist environment. 

However, active members in Santa Barbara say those corporate policies failed on the ground when rush got underway.

UCSB has since condemned discrimination in a statement to The Post.

“Discrimination is not tolerated at the university. Reports of discrimination are investigated by the university’s Office of Discrimination and Harassment Prevention and referred to Student Conduct as appropriate,” a university spokesperson said.

French Newspaper Blasts President Emmanuel Macron Over Riots Across France, Calls Them an “Indelible Stain”

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A leading French newspaper has issued a fierce rebuke of the country’s political leadership after nationwide protests spiraled into riots, looting and arson.

The editorial, written by Vincent Trémolet de Villers for the conservative newspaper Le Figaro and published Sunday afternoon local time, attributed the unrest to years of political failures, directing particular criticism at President Emmanuel Macron.

The commentary condemned what it characterized as a justice system that is “lenient toward criminals,” accused far-left groups of committing violence without facing meaningful consequences, and criticized France’s immigration and security policies.

“A judiciary that is lenient toward criminals but unrelenting toward decent citizens. The incomprehensible privilege of these far-left militias, who destroy, set fires, and kill with impunity,” the editorial said, according to a translation.

“An uncontrolled immigration, in which a portion of the immigrants rebels against the country that took them in.”

France's President Emmanuel Macron protests

The editorial also criticized Macron for previously urging police to show greater empathy. (Ludovic Marin/Pool Photo via AP)

Macron’s earlier calls for greater empathy from police were another focus of the criticism.

“Emmanuel Macron’s reprimands toward a police force he deemed insufficiently ‘empathetic’ — directed at officers under attack by bolts, cobblestones, and mortar fireworks — will remain an indelible stain,” it stated.

The writer said the violence exposed broader shortcomings within France’s political establishment.

“If the far-left, criminals, and looters can turn France upside down in a matter of hours, it is primarily because a technocratic monarchy — intoxicated by its own self-importance — has methodically dismantled all the moral, security, cultural, and economic safeguards that allow a society to remain standing.”

The blistering commentary came after a day of unrest across France. According to The Associated Press, masked groups fought with police, looted shops, started fires and attacked public buildings.

Macron addressed the nation Sunday, denouncing the violence and promising that those responsible would be held accountable.

“Nothing will excuse their actions. We all tonight feel angry. We feel shame as well,” Macron said, according to a translation of his televised remarks.

“There needs to be a response. Those people who looted need to pay for their crimes,” he added.

The French president also recognized the economic anxiety and uncertainty voiced by young people about their future.

“The youth of our nation are expressing great anguish and concern about the future, the conditions of where their careers will take them, what role they will be able to play in society,” Macron said. “… I hear what they are saying, for the past ten years I’ve been fighting for them, so we need to pay heed to what they are saying.”

Macron said he had instructed officials to bolster security around public buildings and businesses, while acknowledging that protests could be restricted in certain areas.

At least 2,400 people were arrested across the country, including 855 in the Paris region, the AP reported.

More than 500 police officers, gendarmes and firefighters were injured, according to the AP, which cited Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez.

Emmanuel and Brigitte Macron disembark plane after face grabbing

The criticism comes as Macron also faces scrutiny over his decision to attend a Celine Dion concert with his wife, Brigitte, on Friday night, just before the nationwide demonstrations. (LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP via Getty Images)

Authorities estimated roughly 550,000 people took part in Saturday’s demonstrations, while organizers put turnout at 800,000, according to the AP. 

Hundreds of businesses were looted nationwide, and unrest continued Sunday in Paris, where police used tear gas as tensions flared around Place de la République.

The criticism also comes as Macron faces scrutiny over his decision to attend a Celine Dion concert with his wife, Brigitte, on Friday night, on the eve of the nationwide demonstrations.

The protests, fueled in part by anger over rising living costs, school conditions and public services, erupted into violence Saturday.

Macron’s office and Le Figaro could not immediately be reached by News Media for comment.