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Government Shutdown Chaos: U.S. Airports Struggle with Severe Delays Amid Lengthy Security Lines

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Government Shutdown Chaos: U.S. Airports Struggle with Severe Delays Amid Lengthy Security Lines

Airports across the United States are in disarray as massive security lines emerge, a direct result of the persistent government shutdown.

With TSA employees not receiving their paychecks, security wait times have ballooned to approximately two hours at airports nationwide.

At Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the lines have grown so extensive that they now extend from the screening checkpoints all the way into the baggage claim area.

In Houston, at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, the line for TSA security snaked down an escalator, with wait times reaching up to 150 minutes.

New York’s LaGuardia Airport experienced lengthy queues as early as 4:50 a.m., with travelers overflowing into the parking lot as they waited.

The delays come as TSA staffing has been thinned by the shutdown, for which there is no immediate end in sight.

Agents have missed paychecks as a result, prompting a mass wave of callouts and even resignations that threaten to paralyze travel in the US.

As of this afternoon, 125 cancellations and more than 3,500 delays had been reported nationwide, per FlightAware.

Approximately 350,000 passengers to move through the Atlanta airport from yesterday, Thursday, through Sunday

Approximately 350,000 passengers to move through the Atlanta airport from yesterday, Thursday, through Sunday

Security waits for travelers reached around two hours on Friday, with the airport asking travelers to arrive up to three hours early or risk missing their flights

Security waits for travelers reached around two hours on Friday, with the airport asking travelers to arrive up to three hours early or risk missing their flights

More than 1,000 TSA workers are employed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, but many are calling out due to the ongoing government shutdown

More than 1,000 TSA workers are employed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, but many are calling out due to the ongoing government shutdown

The partial government shutdown comes from a congressional deadlock over funding for the DHS, which oversees TSA

Atlanta’s airport employs more than 1,000 TSA workers, but at least a third of those have been unavailable at times this week.

Travelers have been urged to arrive at least three hours early, beyond the usual two-hour guidance, to avoid missing their flights.

However, one traveler said that the plea for an early arrival did not seem to matter.

‘I don’t think it’s going to be enough,’ Sydni Greer, who was traveling to Los Angeles, told Atlanta News First.

Another passenger said that the havoc caused by the TSA pay stop was evident.

‘I was checking in, and I was like, ‘Oh, it’s already [been] an hour thirty,” Cristal Brown, who was flying to Boston, said.

The timing is especially bad because it coincides with the spring break period during which lots of flights cross through the busiest travel hub in the US.

On Thursday, the callout rate at Atlanta’s airport soared to 38 percent, WRDW reported.

Upcoming spring breaks across Georgia and major global sporting events like the Masters golf tournament and the upcoming FIFA World Cup could further strain the airport if the shutdown continues. 

The Department of Homeland Security has said that many TSA officers cannot pay their rent, afford gas or buy food

The Department of Homeland Security has said that many TSA officers cannot pay their rent, afford gas or buy food

The TSA line at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport stretched down an escalator with waits reaching 150 minutes

The TSA line at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport stretched down an escalator with waits reaching 150 minutes

As of Friday afternoon, 2,951 delays and 112 cancellations have been reported across the United States

As of Friday afternoon, 2,951 delays and 112 cancellations have been reported across the United States 

About 50,000 TSA workers have been working without pay since February 14 because the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is shutdown. 

At least 366 agents nationwide have quit their jobs, the DHS said.

A longtime TSA worker said going without pay prevented some agents from traveling to work or supporting their families.

‘Whether it’s ‘I can’t put gas in my car,’ ‘I have to take care of my children,’ ‘I have to pay my light bill so that my lights won’t get cut off,’ … those are the reasons that officers are not showing up,’ Aaron Barker, president of American Federation of Government Employees Local 554 in Atlanta, said, per the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

‘Officers are scared,’ Barker added. ‘They don’t know what to do.’

The partial government shutdown stems from a congressional deadlock over funding for the DHS, which oversees TSA.

Democrats want changes to federal immigration enforcement, which US president Donald Trump and congressional Republicans have not agreed to.

In turn, many TSA workers ‘are coping with eviction notices, vehicle repossessions, empty refrigerators and overdrawn bank accounts,’ Barker said.

‘The mental stress, it’s just unbearable,’ he added.

Airports with high average TSA callout rates during the shutdown include New York’s JFK International Airport, Houston Hobby and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Airports with high average TSA callout rates during the shutdown include New York’s JFK International Airport, Houston Hobby and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport 

TSA workers make about $50,000 per year on average. Many have been left unable to pay for gas or food due to the shutdown

TSA workers make about $50,000 per year on average. Many have been left unable to pay for gas or food due to the shutdown

A traveller at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport showed that he waited more than one hour to get past TSA on Friday

A traveller at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport showed that he waited more than one hour to get past TSA on Friday

To date, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has had the highest average callout rate during the shutdown so far at 21.5 percent.

One of the four domestic security checkpoints at the airport has been closed most of this week, prompting even longer lines at the remaining lanes.

On Thursday, three of the four checkpoints in the domestic terminal were shuttered, leaving just the main checkpoint open.

Other airports with high average TSA callout rates during the shutdown include New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport at 21.4 percent, Houston Hobby at 21 percent and New Orleans at 16.5 percent, according to the DHS.

Those airports were also increasingly seeing delays and travel problems right before the weekend.

In New York, JFK’s worst wait times on Friday afternoon were estimated at 35 minutes. 

The airport posted a notice on its website urging travelers to expect even longer delays: ‘Due to the federal funding lapse, security wait times may be longer during certain periods.’ 

Newark Liberty International Airport in neighboring New Jersey was experiencing wait times of more than an hour.

The DHS has said that 'Democrats must end this madness' to bring an end to the government shutdown that threatens to halt nationwide travel

The DHS has said that ‘Democrats must end this madness’ to bring an end to the government shutdown that threatens to halt nationwide travel

As of Friday afternoon, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey reported wait times of more than an hour

As of Friday afternoon, Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey reported wait times of more than an hour

Wait times to get past security have reached around two hours in some airports around the US, such as Houston's, after TSA workers’ pay was halted

Wait times to get past security have reached around two hours in some airports around the US, such as Houston’s, after TSA workers’ pay was halted 

In Houston, the Bush Intercontinental Airport has been forced to reduce TSA and pre-check service due to to the shortage of agents.

Call-outs at the Houston airport reached nearly 41 percent earlier this week, according to CBS.

On Friday, a security checkpoint wait time of up to two hours was estimated and shown to travelers at the airport.

Earlier this week, disruptions were also reported in Chicago, Philadelphia, Denver and other airports on both coasts. 

The travel madness is expected to continue for as long as TSA workers do not get paid.

‘They can’t afford to come in and they’re going to quit altogether,’ Adam Stahl, the TSA acting deputy administrator, told WSBTV. ‘That’s a serious concern.’

The DHS has also said that many TSA officers cannot pay their rent, afford gas or buy food because of the current shutdown.

TSA officers earn about $50,000 per year on average, according to The New York Times.

Some were having to sleep at airports since they could not commute home, according to the agency, which said that ‘Democrats must end this madness.’

Call-outs at Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport airport reached nearly 41 percent earlier this week

Call-outs at Houston’s Bush Intercontinental Airport airport reached nearly 41 percent earlier this week

The Trump administration has warned that the delays could get even worse unless lawmakers reach a compromise

The Trump administration has warned that the delays could get even worse unless lawmakers reach a compromise

Chicago O'Hare was among the airports that saw travel disruptions caused by the TSA shortage earlier this week. The Trump administration has warned the chaos could worsen

Chicago O’Hare was among the airports that saw travel disruptions caused by the TSA shortage earlier this week. The Trump administration has warned the chaos could worsen

Some of the major travel hubs hardest hit by Friday's delays and cancellations included Atlanta, Houston and New York

Some of the major travel hubs hardest hit by Friday’s delays and cancellations included Atlanta, Houston and New York

Earlier this week, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that TSA workers will miss another payment on March 27.

‘This is gonna look like child’s play, what’s happening right now,’ Duffy told CNBC on Thursday. 

He said that small airports could shut down unless lawmakers reach a solution to end the travel chaos.

‘You’re going to see extensive lines, and air travel’s going to come to a grid halt stop,’ Duffy said.

The Daily Mail has reached out to the US Department of Transportation for comment on the delays and the shutdown. 

Bachelorette Season 22 Winner Speaks Out Following Taylor Frankie Paul Drama (Spoiler Alert)

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Bachelorette Season 22 Winner Speaks Out Following Taylor Frankie Paul Drama (Spoiler Alert)

CONTENT WARNING: This article contains discussions of domestic violence and abuse.

WARNING! THIS ARTICLE REVEALS MAJOR SPOILERS FOR THE BACHELORETTE SEASON 22! The 22nd season of The Bachelorette has been officially canceled following the resurfacing of a video from 2023, depicting an altercation between Taylor Frankie Paul and her former boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen. In light of this, Doug Mason, who was rumored to be the winner, has decided to break his silence. Taylor, known for her influential online presence and her role in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, is a mother of three who faced legal troubles in 2023. She was arrested on misdemeanor charges, including aggravated assault, two counts of domestic violence in the presence of a child, child abuse resulting in injury, and criminal mischief.

In August 2023, Taylor entered a guilty plea for the aggravated assault charge, while the remaining charges were dropped. She was subsequently sentenced to 36 months of probation. Fast forward to February 2026, Taylor and Dakota found themselves entangled in yet another domestic violence incident, with both parties leveling accusations against one another.

Taylor pleaded guilty to aggravated assault in August 2023, but the other charges were dismissed, and she received 36 months of probation. In February 2026, Dakota and Taylor were involved in another domestic violence incident, in which they both made allegations against each other.

Three days before The Bachelorette season 22 was set to premiere on March 22, TMZ released a disturbing video of the 2023 incident, in which Taylor threw metal chairs at Dakota, one of which hit her then 5-year-old daughter from her first marriage to Tate Paul in the head. After the video was released, ABC made the decision to cancel The Bachelorette season 22.

Who Won Taylor Frankie Paul’s Bachelorette Season?

According to Reality Steve, one of Taylor’s 22 contestants, Doug Mason, a 28-year-old ocean lifeguard, got engaged to Taylor at the end of The Bachelorette season 22, which filmed from October 26 to December 19, 2025. Her runner-up was Shane Parton, a 28-year-old private wealth planner from Atlanta, Georgia.

However, in January 2026, Doug flew to Utah, and Taylor ended their engagement. Reality Steve claims that it was because of Dakota. As revealed in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 4 finale, Taylor and Dakota had spent the night together the night before she left to film The Bachelorette. Reality Steve reported that, as of his post on March 17, Taylor wasn’t with Doug or Dakota.

Taylor Frankie Paul’s Rumored Bachelorette Season 22 Winner Breaks Silence

The Bachelorette Season 22 Contestant Doug Mason Promotional Photo
Image via ABC

Doug spoke out on March 20, the day after ABC canceled Taylor’s Bachelorette season. In an Instagram story, he shared a video of himself driving in a car, in which he said, “Yo. Good morning, everybody. In light of everything that’s happened, I’m just sending out prayers to Taylor because that was her moment, and her moment was blocked. So, all we can do right now is just be hopeful. And I’m headed off to run, to watch the sunrise. So, hope you guys have a great day. Let’s stay positive, and show nothing but support for people in need. Cheers.”

Fans will likely never see The Bachelorette season 22, so they’ll never truly know what happened between Doug and Taylor. However, it’s beautiful to see that he’s wishing her well in her time of need. Doug obviously loved Taylor at some point if he proposed to her, so he must be concerned for her after everything that’s happened. This cancellation is unprecedented for The Bachelorette, so nobody really knows what to do, but it’s admirable that Doug is leading the way with kindness.

Sources: TMZ, Reality Steve/Instagram, Doug Mason/Instagram


The Bachelorette Season 19 Poster


Release Date

January 8, 2003

Network

ABC

Showrunner

Mike Fleiss

Directors

Mike Fleiss

Writers

Elan Gale



Three Individuals, Including Ex-U.S. Army Member from Ft. Gordon, Sentenced for Involvement in Alleged Espionage Scheme

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Three Individuals, Including Ex-U.S. Army Member from Ft. Gordon, Sentenced for Involvement in Alleged Espionage Scheme


AUGUSTA, Ga. – In a significant federal court ruling, three men have been sentenced after admitting to facilitating access for North Korean workers to U.S.-based computer networks.

The defendants each entered guilty pleas to charges of Wire Fraud Conspiracy, as announced by U.S. Attorney Margaret E. “Meg” Heap for the Southern District of Georgia on Friday.

Alexander Paul Travis, 35, received a 12-month prison sentence, followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to surrender $193,265. At the time of the offense, Travis was an active-duty soldier stationed at Fort Gordon, and he reportedly gained at least $51,397 from his involvement in the scheme.

Meanwhile, Jason Salazar, 30, from Clovis, California, and Audricus Phagnasay, 25, of Fresno, California, received sentences that included forfeitures of $409,879 and $681,926, respectively. Salazar and Phagnasay reportedly profited by at least $3,450 and $4,500 each.

The defendants admitted that they were approached by international information technology workers who requested their assistance. They allowed these workers to fabricate resumes with false credentials under the defendants’ names, facilitating the workers’ ability to secure remote jobs with U.S. companies. This deception enabled the workers to pass employer screenings, such as video interviews, drug tests, and fingerprinting. Additionally, bank accounts were opened in the defendants’ names to process payments from these U.S. employers.

Each then received a laptop computer from the company that hired the fictitious worker, and would install unauthorized software to enable the overseas IT worker to access the computers remotely, while appearing to work from the defendant’s address in the United States.

The fraudulent scheme resulted in approximately $1.28 million in salary payments from the victim U.S. companies, the vast majority of which were sent to the IT workers overseas.

“These defendants facilitated a scheme to deceive U.S. companies into hiring foreign remote IT workers,” said FBI Georgia Acting Special Agent in Charge Peter Ellis. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to expose and mitigate these fraudulent IT schemes and provide support to victims of North Korean cyber actors.”

The FBI Augusta (Georgia) Resident Agency is investigating the cases, and the National Security Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Alexander Hamner for the Southern District of Georgia and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the NSD National Security Cyber Section are prosecuting the cases.

Ultimate March Madness 2026: Expert Picks & Winning Predictions for Friday’s Round of 64

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Ultimate March Madness 2026: Expert Picks & Winning Predictions for Friday’s Round of 64

One of the exciting aspects of March Madness is spotting which teams are becoming fan favorites and deciding whether to jump on the bandwagon or bet on the opposite outcome for potential value.

UCLA, seeded seventh, is gaining attention as a possible underdog capable of making a significant impact in the East Region. To live up to this hype, the Bruins must first overcome No. 10 seed UCF in a Friday evening showdown in Philadelphia.

Bookmakers seem confident in UCLA’s chances, as Mick Cronin’s team is favored by 5.5 points—the largest point spread among the four 7-10 matchups in the tournament.

UCLA vs. UCF odds, prediction

The enthusiasm surrounding UCLA is justified by their impressive late-season performance.

Following heavy losses to Michigan and Michigan State, the Bruins bounced back remarkably, winning six out of their next seven games before narrowly losing to Purdue in the Big Ten semifinals.

That stretch saw UCLA collect wins over Illinois, Nebraska and Michigan State, all of whom are higher seeds than the Bruins in the Big Dance.


UCF Knights guard Themus Fulks (1) goes to the basket.
Themus Fulks and UCF enter the tournament in poor form. Mike Watters-Imagn Images

UCF’s current form is on the other end of the spectrum.

The Knights limp into the tournament as losers of four of their last five and seven of their last 11.

The schedule they faced was a brute, but it’s not like they’ll be taking on a shrinking violet on Friday night at the Wells Fargo Center.

What’s more is that UCF’s glaring weakness, a defense that sits outside of KenPom’s top 100, matches up with the strength of UCLA.

The Bruins are a terrific offensive outfit, ranking 22nd in the country per KenPom.

Betting on College Basketball?

Sometimes there are reasons to be dubious of trendy teams early in the tournament, but other times it’s logical.

We’ll back the Bruins to get the job done with ease Friday.

The Play: UCLA -5.5 (-110, bet365)

Why Trust New York Post Betting

Michael Leboff is a long-suffering Islanders fan, but a long-profiting sports bettor with 10 years of experience in the gambling industry. He loves using game theory to help punters win bracket pools, find long shots, and learn how to beat the market in mainstream and niche sports.

Joliet Detective Peter Ranstead Convicted of Domestic Violence in Woodiris Drive Case, Court Determines

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Joliet Detective Peter Ranstead Convicted of Domestic Violence in Woodiris Drive Case, Court Determines

A Joliet police detective has been found guilty of domestic violence, following accusations stemming from an incident in 2024. The verdict was delivered by a judge on Thursday.

According to police officials, officers responded to a call shortly after midnight on September 28, 2024, at a residence in the 1100 block of Woodiris Drive. The call reported a domestic disturbance at the location.

Upon arrival, officers discovered that the incident involved a confrontation between a woman and her husband, identified as off-duty Joliet police detective Peter Ranstead, who was 41 years old at the time of the incident.

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Joliet police officials said officers responded just after midnight September 28, 2024 to a home in the 1100-block of Woodiris Drive for a report of a domestic disturbance.

When they arrived, they learned a confrontation had taken place there involving a woman and her husband, off-duty Joliet police detective Peter Ranstead, who was 41 at the time, police said.

During an argument, Ranstead grabbed the woman and pushed her, causing her to hit her head, police said. When she tried to call 911, Ranstead took her phone away, according to Joliet police.

The woman was eventually able to call 911. Ranstead was not at home when officers arrived.

Ranstead was charged in a Kendall County warrant with domestic battery and interfering with the reporting of domestic violence, police said.

He turned himself in Wednesday morning at the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office in Yorkville, police said.

Ranstead was placed on administrative leave during the investigation.

He will be back in court April 17 for sentencing.

Joliet police released the following statement in 2024:
“The Joliet Police Department holds itself to the highest standards of integrity and accountability. When these standards are not met, we not only compromise our legitimacy but also erode the public’s trust. The community expects us to lead by example, and when one of our own fails to meet these expectations, it affects us all. Being a police officer is not just a job, it is a calling that requires each of us to live a life without reproach. I expect my Officers to embody the values of integrity, respect, and fairness in both their personal and professional lives. This is critical not only to maintain the trust of the public but also to preserve the honor of wearing the badge. When any officer fails to uphold these principles, it diminishes the hard work and dedication of all those who serve honorably. Our duty stands now to remain committed to transparency and impartiality and ensure that justice is served,” Joliet police said in a statement.

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Radio Star Bobby Bones and Wife Caitlin Parker Estell Celebrate the Arrival of Their First Child

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Radio Star Bobby Bones and Wife Caitlin Parker Estell Celebrate the Arrival of Their First Child

Bonne Bones has officially entered the dad phase of his life.

The well-known radio host, along with his wife Caitlin Parker Estell, joyfully welcomed their first child, a baby girl. They also revealed the heartfelt inspiration behind her name.

“Meet our daughter, Billie Celine Estell,” shared the Dancing With the Stars season 27 champion in a March 20 Instagram post. The post included a series of photos featuring him and Caitlin cuddling their newborn. “Her name honors her grandfather, and we’re overjoyed that she’s ours.”

While choosing to keep their little girl’s face out of the spotlight, Bobby (whose full name is Bobby Estell) posted an adorable picture of himself gently kissing Billie’s head as Caitlin lovingly watched.

Following the announcement, friends and fellow celebrities joined in the celebration. Kane Brown offered his congratulations, and Spencer Crandall added, “Aww! Congrats y’all,” in the comments section.

Bobby and Caitlin—who married in 2021—announced they were expecting their first baby together in September. In the Instagram post, the 45-year-old stood behind his wife who showed off her belly bump in the mirror. 

Ex-New Berlin School District Staff Member Charged with Child Sexual Abuse

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Ex-New Berlin School District Staff Member Charged with Child Sexual Abuse


NEW BERLIN, Ill. (WCIA) — A former employee of a school district in Sangamon County is now facing charges related to child sexual abuse, as confirmed by the sheriff’s office on Friday.

Lindsey Prather, 43, from New Berlin, was arrested on March 19, following a nearly year-long investigation into allegations of her involvement with a minor.

The case began on April 15, 2025, when the New Berlin School District notified local authorities about potential misconduct involving one of their employees and a minor. The matter was subsequently handed over to the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office for further investigation.

Denise Richards, 55, Reveals Undergoing Comprehensive Facelift Procedure

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Denise Richards, 55, Reveals Undergoing Comprehensive Facelift Procedure

Denise Richards has openly revealed for the first time that she has undergone a complete facelift.

In an exclusive conversation with Allure’s Elizabeth Siegel, the former Playboy model shared her personal experiences with plastic surgery and opened up about her journey.

Richards, who is 55 and the ex-wife of Charlie Sheen, disclosed that she had the procedure done eight months ago. She also provided photos from the surgery to give insight into her transformation.

She mentioned feeling upset when her former husband leaked the news of her surgery to the media before she had the chance to discuss it herself.

“I wanted to restore things to where they were before,” Richards explained, expressing her desire for rejuvenation.

‘I was terrified. Being in the public eye since my 20s, people know what I look like – a facelift is not something that I could hide.’

Denise Richards has shared for the first time that she has undergone a full facelift. In an exclusive interview with Allure's Elizabeth Siegel, the former Playboy model candidly discusses her plastic surgery journey. Above, on March 8

Denise Richards has shared for the first time that she has undergone a full facelift. In an exclusive interview with Allure’s Elizabeth Siegel, the former Playboy model candidly discusses her plastic surgery journey. Above, on March 8

The 55-year-old ex-wife of Charlie Sheen said she had the complete process eight months ago, as she shared photos from the surgery

The 55-year-old ex-wife of Charlie Sheen said she had the complete process eight months ago, as she shared photos from the surgery

It’s not the first time she has had plastic surgery. 

Richards had her breasts done at 19, and has had revision surgery for her implants since then.

But, she said, it is the first time she has had cosmetic surgery on her face.

‘It is night and day,’ Richards said of her before and after look. ‘It’s shocking, actually.’

After she had the facelift, she said other stars ‘were more comfortable telling me about theirs, but I’m not gonna name names.’

Still, she says, it can be great to know that ‘it’s not just serums and working out and lasers’ that make people like her look younger.

‘Going through my divorce, my ex [Aaron Phypers] disclosed that I’d had a facelift. He had a photographer show up outside an appointment where I had some microneedling on my scars,’ she claimed.

‘So [my ex] told someone that I had a facelift, and said it was botched, which is really ridiculous.

‘You know, I went back and forth about whether I was going to say anything about my facelift – um, he kind of let the cat out of the bag. 

The star seen with a cut on her face in July 2025

The star seen with a cut on her face in July 2025

Appearing on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen last March

Appearing on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen last March

Richards at Day Four of the 6th Canneseries International Festival in 2023

Richards at Day Four of the 6th Canneseries International Festival in 2023

‘I think I could have gotten away with, ‘Oh, she looks so much better after her divorce.’ I think I probably would’ve been able to get away with it—or not, I don’t know.’

This comes after Richards was ordered to pay her estranged husband, Phypers, $5,000 a month in temporary spousal support.

The Wild Things star actress and her ex, 53, are amid divorce proceedings after separating last summer and during the latest court hearing related to the split, Judge Nicole Bershon ruled the movie star must pay Phypers the monthly amount and contribute $30,000 towards his legal fees.

The judge clarified that the attorney’s fees apply only to the divorce case and not to Phypers’s criminal defense.

He is facing four felony counts – two felony counts of injuring a spouse and two felony counts of dissuading a witness by force or threat – allegations he has denied.

The $30,000 in legal fees will be paid in three installments, with the first $10,000 due at the end of March.

Judge Bershon itemized the monthly $5,000 support payment as $2,000 for rent, $1,000 for a car, $1,000 for food and the remaining sum for miscellaneous expenses.

Phypers told the court on February 26 he had only $200 to his name and said the ruling would ‘certainly help’ but that he was taking matters ‘one day at a time.’

This comes after Richards was ordered to pay her estranged husband, Phypers, $5,000 a month in temporary spousal support

This comes after Richards was ordered to pay her estranged husband, Phypers, $5,000 a month in temporary spousal support

Richards’s lawyer, Mark Gross, argued the financial burden of caring for her 14-year-old daughter, Eloise, who has a rare chromosomal disorder resulting in developmental delays, was ‘pretty extraordinary.’

He said: ‘Victims of abuse shouldn’t be required to support their abuser’ – referencing Denise being granted a permanent restraining order against Phypers in November 2025.

His lawyer responded that the Quantum 360 founder has not been convicted of the charges.

In January, Richards reflected on what she described on Instagram as a hard year of ‘letting go [and] truths being exposed’. She wrote: ‘As painful as it is, I’m so grateful for the clarity.’

Richards has two daughters, Sami and Lola, with Sheen.

Phypers was previously married to actress Nicollette Sheridan before their divorce in 2018.

Photo Shoot Turns Violent: Men Assault Victims After Feeling ‘Disrespected’ by ‘Say Cheese’ Comment, Police Report

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Photo Shoot Turns Violent: Men Assault Victims After Feeling ‘Disrespected’ by ‘Say Cheese’ Comment, Police Report

Inset left to right: Seth Jones and Malakhi Scott Weathers-Parker (Louisville Metro Corrections). Background: A restaurant near where one group of people attacked another in Louisville, Ky. (Google Maps).

A night out in Kentucky spiraled into chaos, resulting in several arrests and injuries, after a group of men allegedly incited confrontations across various businesses due to a perceived slight. This incident took place in the Bluegrass State and has captured the attention of local law enforcement.

Among those charged is 20-year-old Malakhi Scott Weathers-Parker, facing allegations including first-degree strangulation, fourth-degree assault, and unlawful transaction with a minor. Also implicated is 20-year-old Seth Jones, who faces two counts of assault and one count of unlawful transaction with a minor, according to information released by the Louisville Metro Police Department.

The events unfolded on March 8, 2025, at the Paddock Shops, a popular shopping destination in Louisville’s eastern region. What began as a routine evening soon escalated into an unexpected altercation.

As three people made their way to dine at Malone’s, they encountered another group taking a photograph. In a seemingly innocuous gesture, someone from the first group called out “say cheese” before entering the restaurant, as described by law enforcement sources.

However, this comment, typically an invitation for a broad smile, was interpreted as disrespectful by the photographed group, according to an arrest report accessed by Louisville’s Fox affiliate, WDRB. Weathers-Parker and Jones were identified as members of the offended group, the police report detailed.

The defendants left the area to take someone home but later returned to the same parking lot where the unwanted “say cheese” comment was made, with a juvenile in tow, and went to look for the first group, according to law enforcement. The trio even went to several different restaurants trying to find the group from earlier, police said.

Eventually, the victims returned to their car where they were accosted by the defendants, according to the arrest report.

Quickly, the groups came to blows.

One victim was beaten with their own metal baton, police claim. Another was put into a chokehold until they became unconscious, according to law enforcement. In the aftermath, the unconscious victim suffered a concussion, skull fractures, and a brain bleed, police said. Another victim was left with bruises and contusions on her leg. A third victim suffered bruises and contusions all over his body.

After the attack, the trio left the scene of the crime, police claim. The incident was witnessed by another person in the parking lot and recorded by surveillance cameras, law enforcement says.

On March 18, 2025, Jones was arrested, WDRB reported at the time. His lawyer claimed he acted in self-defense.

“As the video evidence will show, Mr. Jones acted in self-defense when the alleged victims pulled out a deadly weapon and Mr. Jones was forced to defend himself and disarm them,” defense attorney Nick Mudd told the TV station.

The next day, police requested the public’s help locating Weathers-Parker in a post on Facebook which jocularly referenced the inciting remark and included what appears to be a still image of the defendant from the night in question behind the wheels of a car.

“We would like to introduce you to 19-year-old Malakhi Scott Weathers-Parker,” the social media post reads. “Our Eighth Division Detectives would like to talk to him. We are alleging that he and some of his friends thought it would be cool to be ‘cheese heads’ and assault and strangle a patron outside of a popular east end eatery on 3-8-25 during the evening hours. If you should know where ‘Mr. Pepper Jack’ is or you feel ‘cheesy’ enough to call in a tip. Remember you can do it anonymously.”

On March 24, 2025, Weathers-Parker was arrested, the police department announced in a follow-up Facebook post.

This month, a woman injured during the incident sued the Paddock Shops for negligence and premises liability over an alleged lack of security and lighting in the parking lots, WDRB reported this week.

Despite the police department’s claim that the assailants are caught on surveillance cameras, the plaintiff in the lawsuit is alleging the camera situation at the shopping mall was wholly insufficient.

“[S]he was ambushed in a dark parking lot,” attorney David Barber said in a press release. “The Paddock Shops had no surveillance cameras covering the parking lots, inadequate lighting, and a security response slower than nearby restaurant employees and bystanders. This attack was foreseeable and preventable.”

Man Sentenced to Life for Gruesome Attack on Girlfriend

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Man Sentenced to Life for Gruesome Attack on Girlfriend

A man who viciously stabbed his partner to death and set her body on fire following a dispute over drugs, money, and another woman, has been sentenced to a minimum of 24 years in prison.

Luke Hanif Sekkouah pleaded guilty in the WA Supreme Court to Erica Hay’s murder in Perth’s southern suburbs in April 2024.

The 37-year-old was handed a life sentence on Friday, with the stipulation that he is not eligible for parole for at least 24 years.

Luke Hanif Sekkouah, Erica Hay
Luke Hanif Sekkouah pleaded guilty in the WA Supreme Court to Erica Hay’s murder in Perth’s southern suburbs in April 2024. (9News)

The attacker, Sekkouah, inflicted multiple stab wounds to Hay’s head, neck, and body, striking her heart, liver, and lungs in what Justice Natalie Whitby described as a “sustained, relentless, and brutal” assault.

Justice Whitby remarked, “She was defenseless against your fury while you wielded a lethal weapon.”

During the attack, one of Hay’s daughters was reportedly present in the home and may have witnessed her mother lying lifeless on the floor, the court heard.

“After you repeatedly stabbed her and she had fallen and hit her head, you continued to stab her,” Justice Whitby said.

“Erica was defenceless against your violence.

“Erica’s injuries were horrific.”

Erica Hay's family outside the WA Supreme Court
Outside of court, Hay’s childhood friend, Amanda Broad, said she hoped Sekkouah “rots in hell” and he should not have been given a non-parole period. (9News)

Sekkouah, a methylamphetamine user, left the house and bought a six-pack of beer from a nearby liquor store.

He then stole a bottle of turpentine from an IGA supermarket and returned to the home.

In the early hours of the next morning, he poured it on Hay and some furniture and ignited it.

“Your intention to incinerate Erica’s body after you had killed her was a vile and degrading act,” Justice Whitby said.

“This attempt to cover up was deliberate and planned.

“Your offending is the most extreme form of domestic violence.”

Sekkouah, who was covered in tattoos and sat motionless in court, then scooped up Hay’s daughter and ran from the house to a neighbour’s home and asked them to call emergency services.

Firefighters found Hay’s partially burned body lying in a hallway.

Erica Hay
Firefighters found Hay’s partially burned body lying in a hallway. (9News)

Sekkouah, a mechanical fitter, told police he was sleeping in the house when it filled with smoke and he ran out after grabbing Hay’s daughter.

Detectives became suspicious when they learned Sekkouah had not suffered from smoke inhalation and saw Hay’s 23 injuries.

Hay was a mother, daughter, sister and a friend, Justice Whitby said.

“No term of imprisonment can measure the value of her life,” she said.

“She had so much life ahead of her.”

Sekkouah initially fought the murder charge, pleading guilty on the first day of a trial.

Luke Hanif Sekkouah, Erica Hay
Sekkouah, a mechanical fitter, told police he was sleeping in the house when it filled with smoke and he ran out after grabbing Hay’s daughter. (9News)

He then disputed the facts, triggering a multi-day hearing to resolve the issues.

Justice Whitby was scathing of Sekkouah’s apology letter, saying his “sustained and deceptive conduct demonstrated a lack of remorse”.

The court heard Sekkouah suffered Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and lacked the skills to manage relationships. He drank alcohol and used cannabis daily.

Outside of court, Hay’s childhood friend, Amanda Broad, said she hoped Sekkouah “rots in hell” and he should not have been given a non-parole period.

“I just want my friend back and I’m never going to get her back,” she said, crying.

“He gets to sit pretty in prison … my friend doesn’t, my friend is gone.”

Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)

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