Home Blog Page 1350

New Mexico Attorney General Initiates Criminal Probe into DEA Amid Allegations of Fentanyl Influx

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
New Mexico Attorney General Initiates Criminal Probe into DEA Amid Allegations of Fentanyl Influx

On Friday, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez announced the launch of a criminal investigation in response to claims that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) knowingly permitted the distribution of hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills into New Mexico communities. This allegedly occurred while agents were engaged in pursuits of larger criminal cases.

This inquiry follows a report from The Associated Press, which outlined how DEA agents repeatedly observed—but refrained from confiscating—significant fentanyl shipments from 2023 to 2025 as they focused on assembling substantial criminal prosecutions.

Attorney General Torrez indicated that the investigation will explore various legal avenues, including criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and measures to instigate structural reforms aimed at preventing future misconduct by DEA agents.

“Families who have tragically lost loved ones to fentanyl deserve transparency regarding federal actions and oversights,” Torrez emphasized in his statement.

Fentanyl pills confiscated in New Mexico on April 28, 2025

An image released by the DEA displays fentanyl pills confiscated in New Mexico on April 28, 2025, highlighting the agency’s current predicament over allegations of permitting other shipments to reach the streets. (DEA via AP)

“If the DEA stood by while poison flooded our communities, that is not a bureaucratic failure,” he continued. “It is a betrayal of the people it was sworn to protect.”

Torrez said his office “will pursue every legal avenue available to hold the responsible parties accountable and make certain this never happens again.”

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham called for the investigation earlier this week, saying she was “appalled” by allegations that federal agents knowingly allowed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to reach communities across the state.

Drug Enforcement Administration agent wearing a DEA vest in Florida

New Mexico’s attorney general has opened a criminal investigation into allegations that DEA agents allowed large fentanyl shipments to reach local communities while pursuing larger criminal cases. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel via AP)

“Make no mistake: the DEA knew people would die if these pills made it into New Mexico communities, and the agency let it happen anyway,” Grisham said. “The result: hundreds of New Mexican parents burying their kids. Hundreds of New Mexican kids growing up without stable parents. All while the federal government stood by.”

Grisham also pointed to allegations that DEA agents monitored the delivery of 74,000 fentanyl pills to a mobile home park in Albuquerque without intervening.

DEA Special Agent David Howell

DEA Special Agent David Howell, who filed a whistleblower complaint, poses for a portrait outside the U.S. district courthouse in Albuquerque, N.M., on Friday, June 12, 2026. (AP Photo/Susan Montoya Bryan)

“Shockingly, the federal government stood by while monitoring shipments, tallying exact pill counts, and watching as these deadly drugs hit the streets,” she said.

Current and former DEA agents, including whistleblower David Howell, told the AP the agency’s tactics gambled with public safety and may have violated Department of Justice guidelines.

While the DEA initially denied Howell’s allegations in a statement to the AP, the agency later requested that the Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General conduct an independent review.

Fentanyl pills

Fentanyl pills seized by the DEA in New Mexico on April 28, 2025. New Mexico officials have since launched a criminal investigation into allegations involving the agency’s handling of separate fentanyl shipments. (DEA via AP)

“Should that review identify areas of improvement, the DEA will of course implement changes to better their practices,” the Justice Department said in a statement. “We welcome a partnership with Governor Lujan Grisham, as well as New Mexico state and local leaders, to fight the scourge of fentanyl and keep her constituents safe.”

The allegations stem from enforcement operations conducted during the deadliest drug epidemic in U.S. history, even as the DEA promoted its “One Pill Can Kill” public awareness campaign warning that even a small amount of fentanyl can be fatal.

News Media has reached out to the DEA for comment regarding the investigation.

Andy Burnham’s Dilemma: Breaking Away from PM Starmer’s Policies or Sticking It Out?

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Andy Burnham’s Dilemma: Breaking Away from PM Starmer’s Policies or Sticking It Out?

LONDON – The political landscape in Britain is on the verge of transformation with Andy Burnham set to take the reins from the unpopular Prime Minister Keir Starmer, bringing with him a more amicable and widely favored approach.

However, Burnham’s natural charisma might face hurdles, at least at the outset, as he works to break away from the initiatives established by the former leader.

Formerly serving as the mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham was sworn into Parliament shortly after Starmer’s resignation announcement on Monday. His actions will be somewhat shaped by the platform of the center-left Labour Party, under which they were elected, decisively ending a 14-year Conservative government in 2024.

How Burnham will manage these restrictions and inject his distinctive political style into the role, which would make him the seventh prime minister in ten years, remains uncertain. He is scheduled to detail his economic plans in a speech next week.

“Currently, Andy Burnham is being almost idolized as a folk hero poised to redefine British politics,” commented Matthew Flinders, a political science professor from the University of Sheffield. “The real challenge for Burnham will arise when public sentiment shifts, and he risks being seen as a folk villain. Can he withstand the scrutiny and pressure?”

Next PM will seek to boost a sluggish economy and ease cost of living

Burnham is currently the only contestant for the job of leading the Labour Party and the country, and will likely take over July 17 if no one else enters the race. His return to the House of Commons follows a decade leading the region around the U.K.’s third-largest city, birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, which has enjoyed an economic revival during his tenure.

His main challenge will be to overcome Starmer’s inability to deliver promised economic growth, repair tattered public services and ease the cost of living.

Burnham highlighted those issues — along with housing and creating opportunities for young people — in a post on social media after Starmer said he was quitting.

“The country expects stability, seriousness and a continued focus on the issues that matter most and that is what it will get,” he said on X.

Burnham, who is widely regarded as sitting to the left of Starmer in the party, has said he’ll revive a sluggish economy without going beyond the current government’s spending and borrowing plans. That pledge has helped reassure markets traumatized in 2022 after Prime Minister Liz Truss announced unfunded tax cuts and then withdrew them, leading to her 49-day record as Britain’s shortest-serving leader.

“If you are a Labour prime minster from the soft left of the party, the markets don’t need that much invitation to panic,” said Mark Goodwin, a politics lecturer at Coventry University. “They will start from a position of skepticism. So he’d have to be very, very careful.”

He said Burnham will face a challenge “to convince people that this is something different, without the markets reading that as ‘This is too different.’”

Burnham faces big questions over budget priorities

Burnham promotes what has been called “Manchesterism,” a business-friendly socialist approach that involves harnessing private investment for major projects and decentralizing government to give communities more control of housing, utilities, transportation and education.

In a possible preview of how he would move power from the capital, he is reportedly planning to move some of the prime minister’s operation closer to home, about 200 miles north of 10 Downing St., the London office and home of the U.K.’s leader.

He has said he would not raise taxes on workers — sticking to a Starmer pledge — and suggested policies that include easing the tax burden on businesses, and possibly reversing an increase in a tax employers pay to fund pensions, public health care and welfare.

The big question is how he will fund programs, if he’ll scrap existing priorities, and how he’ll meet demands for higher defense spending, said Jill Rutter, senior fellow at the Institute for Government think tank.

Starmer’s government pledged to meet a NATO target of spending 3.5% of GDP on the military by 2035. But John Healey stepped down as defense secretary this month after complaining that Starmer was not moving fast enough to meet the target.

Burnham more comfortable with domestic issues

Burnham’s lack of experience on the world stage could present a challenge improving the so-called special relationship with the U.S. after President Donald Trump turned on Starmer.

Trump described Burnham this week as a “town” mayor and said he heard he was “extremely liberal” and probably wouldn’t expand North Sea oil drilling — one of his frequent gripes about Starmer.

Starmer made a priority of forging cordial ties with Trump despite their political differences, and was rewarded with a U.S.-U.K. trade deal. But it came at the cost of angering some in Labour’s liberal voter base, and the president soured on Starmer after the British leader criticized his designs on Greenland and declined to enter the Iran war.

Burnham has not always said nice things about Trump. After Trump’s followers stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, Burnham posted on X that “any politician who gave Trump the time of day should be ashamed right now.”

Starmer won praise from many for his international role, especially in bolstering European support for Ukraine. But he was criticized by some for being distracted by foreign affairs, Rutter said. She doesn’t expect the same from Burnham and he could farm out some of those duties by choosing an experienced hand as foreign secretary, the U.K.’s top diplomat.

“I don’t think Andy Burnham will want to be ‘never-here Andy’ in succession to ‘never-here Keir,’” Rutter said in reference to Starmer’s globetrotting moniker.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said on Wednesday that she spoke with Burnham about policy issues and said “he’s 100% behind our unwavering support for Ukraine” and ”is a fundamental believer in NATO and in our shared deterrence and in the multilateral partnerships that we have.”

Playing it safe at first could allow radical reshaping

An early priority for Burnham will be something Starmer struggled with: crafting a clear and convincing narrative that people understand about the direction he wants to take the country, Flinders said.

That plays to Burnham’s communications skills and the popularity he has achieved by presenting himself as an amiable northern everyman who favors T-shirts over suits and ties, plays soccer for kicks and is known for spinning 1990s tunes during DJ battles.

So far, he has played it safe and tried not to raise public expectations too high. But if he can prove himself to be a competent leader and win public support to survive the remaining three years before a general election must be held, he can lay out a bolder vision for another term in his own manifesto.

Burnham has spoken of reshaping the political system, such as replacing the House of Lords with an elected senate and introducing proportional representation in voting. He also said he’d like to see the U.K. rejoin the European Union in his lifetime, though he backed away from that during his campaign in a constituency that voted 2-to-1 in favor of Brexit.

“My sense is that he will take some time, sensibly, to build up his team, his narrative, his story and his connections in order to then try to secure a public mandate and the next general election to then approach the more radical phase that he wants to deliver, which is exactly what Margaret Thatcher did in the ’80s,” Flinders said.

Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Family of Victim Criticizes Camp Mystic Bankruptcy as “Despicable Betrayal” One Year Post-Flood

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Family of Victim Criticizes Camp Mystic Bankruptcy as “Despicable Betrayal” One Year Post-Flood

Nearly a year after a catastrophic flood in Texas claimed the lives of 28 children and staff, Camp Mystic has sought bankruptcy protection.

On June 24, the Christian summer camp for girls filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas. Oxygen obtained the filing, which reveals the camp is facing debts ranging from $10 million to $50 million.

This financial move effectively halts the progress of five civil lawsuits initiated by grieving parents whose children perished in the devastating floods.

Paul Yetter, representing seven families who lost children, remarked on June 24, as reported by the Associated Press, “Filing for bankruptcy will not shield all accountable parties. These young victims are owed justice.”

Commenting on the bankruptcy’s timing, the legal team for Cile Steward, an 8-year-old victim, expressed, “Filing just before the anniversary of the tragedy is a cruel shock to the families who are already struggling with their grief amidst the Fourth of July celebrations.”

“A bankruptcy may reorganize their debts,” the team added to CBS19, “It cannot reorganize the truth.” 

The filing is the latest development in the aftermath of the tragedy. 

On July 4, 2025, torrential downpours triggered a devastating flash flood that killed at least 135 people along the Guadalupe River. Among the victims were 25 Mystic campers between the ages of 8 and 10, two teenage staffers and camp director Richard “Dick” Eastland. 

According to a June 18 report by Texas legislative investigators, the 100-year-old camp fell short of adequately preparing for the storm and failed to timely evacuate. 

The report concluded that the camp did not properly train staff for emergencies, including assigning each staffer specific responsibilities, while also lacking a written emergency plan with “procedures for emergency shelter and for evacuation of each occupied building and the facility.”

Instead, the plan directed campers to simply shelter in place during a flood and “to await further instruction,” per the report. Meanwhile, communication was hindered by walkie-talkies not being distributed to each cabin and the camp’s cell phone ban. 

Any sort of plan, stated the report, would have “been known only by the camp’s co-executive director, Dick Eastland,” who died while attempting to rescue campers during the flood. 

A notably terrifying scene began at 1:14 a.m. when Dick woke up his son, camp co-director Edward Eastland, to help secure boats and other camp equipment, though the pair perceived no flood risk to the buildings, according to the report.  

Meanwhile, teen counselors in cabins closest to the Guadalupe River ignored directions to stay inside, according to the report, instead running to the main office to say that water had entered the structures and to ask for help. 

However, Dick said the water was runoff from a nearby hill, and not the river, according to the report, and instructed counselors to soak it up with towels. When the guardhouse started flooding, he began a series of evacuation orders. 

Despite his efforts, the flood claimed the lives of more than two dozen campers and staff, including Dick himself. 

The bankruptcy filing follows widespread backlash to the camp’s initial plan to resume operations at another property this summer, while also building a memorial dedicated to the lost lives. 

“The families of deceased Camp Mystic campers and counselors were not consulted about and did not approve this memorial,” Blake Bonner, whose 9-year-old daughter Lila Bonner died in the tragedy, said in a September statement, according to the New York Times.

The camp ultimately withdrew its application, according to The Texas Tribune. 

A spokesperson for Camp Mystic did not immediately reply to a request for comment from Oxygen. 

Trump State Fair Sparks Controversy with Arrest of MAGA Supporter for Indecency

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Trump State Fair Sparks Controversy with Arrest of MAGA Supporter for Indecency

In a surprising twist at President Donald Trump’s Great American State Fair, a live-streamer clad in Uncle Sam attire found himself in legal trouble. The individual, known to champion the MAGA tagline, was apprehended following multiple reports from bystanders to the authorities.

Gian Rachtelli, aged 54, was arrested on Thursday afternoon. He faces allegations of committing lewd, indecent, or obscene acts during a Cirque Mechanics performance, an observation reportedly made by three separate individuals.

This development is yet another challenge for the Great American State Fair, an event already under scrutiny for various issues, including performer cancellations, low turnout, and steep food prices—all taking place on the taxpayer’s dime.

While the situation was unfolding, police body cameras documented the scene. However, according to the officer involved, these recordings were not reviewed before the completion of the incident report.

The incident unfolded around 3:50 pm when officers received word from another law enforcement agency patrolling the fair. Reports indicated that attendees witnessed inappropriate behavior during a show, sparking an official response.

When US Park Police officers arrived behind one of the performance stages, they found Rachtelli being detained by officers.

The report states officers interviewed three witnesses before determining there was probable cause to arrest him.

‘He returned for the second show, and I saw him with his hand in his pants likely doing what we all thought he was doing,’ one witness told police in a voluntary statement.

Gian Rachtelli, 54, was arrested and charged with lewd, indecent or obscene acts following an incident at Donald Trump's Great American State Fair on the National Mall

Gian Rachtelli, 54, was arrested and charged with lewd, indecent or obscene acts following an incident at Donald Trump’s Great American State Fair on the National Mall

Visitors walk at The Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington D.C.

Visitors walk at The Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington D.C.

Social media users mocked the fair's reported attendance, with one commenter joking there were so few people that "everyone gets their own individual porta potty"

Social media users mocked the fair’s reported attendance, with one commenter joking there were so few people that ‘everyone gets their own individual porta potty’

A second witness told investigators that a female member of the acrobat team had approached them after becoming concerned.

‘I was approached by a female member of the acrobat team who had noticed an older white male that was making her & other female performer uncomfortable,’ the witness wrote.

‘They informed me that they noticed him making lewd gestures in his pants (as if he was attempting to/masturbating) while they were performing.’

A third witness told officers they had been standing behind Rachtelli during the performance.

‘I was witnessing the Cirque Mechanics performance on June 25 2026 at the Great American State Fair,’ the witness wrote.

‘He was vaping and filming the female performers. He then stuck his right hand down his pants and it moved back-and-forth approximately six times very uncomfortable, in what appeared to be self pleasure or masturbation.’

Based on those witness statements, police charged Rachtelli with one count of lewd, indecent or obscene acts.

The incident report does not include any statement from Rachtelli responding to the allegations.

Rachtelli has been identified online by supporters as the MAGA live-streamer known as 'Manny,' whose live-stream ended shortly before police detained him

Rachtelli has been identified online by supporters as the MAGA live-streamer known as ‘Manny,’ whose live-stream ended shortly before police detained him

According to a US Park Police report, officers determined there was probable cause to arrest Rachtelli after interviewing three separate witnesses

According to a US Park Police report, officers determined there was probable cause to arrest Rachtelli after interviewing three separate witnesses

Critics on social media described photographs of the fair as showing sparse crowds throughout the opening days of the 16-day event

Critics on social media described photographs of the fair as showing sparse crowds throughout the opening days of the 16-day event

Rachtelli has been identified online by supporters as the MAGA live-streamer known as ‘Manny,’ who had been broadcasting live from the event earlier in the day.

Video from his livestream appears to end abruptly as police officers approached him. No audio from the interaction was captured, and Rachtelli has not posted on his account since.

Supporters quickly rallied to his defense online, disputing the allegations.

‘False Report. Unfair Report. Wrongful Detention. Free Manny!’ one X user wrote.

On Reddit, another supporter wrote: ‘I’m standing by Manny 100%. He didn’t do this. He was live streaming the entire time, and the footage shows what happened before his arrest.’

‘From everything I’ve seen, this appears to be an attempt to destroy his reputation, damage his livelihood, and silence someone because of his political views.’

The Daily Mail has contacted Rachtelli seeking comment.

His arrest comes as Trump’s Great American State Fair continues to generate headlines for reasons beyond its patriotic celebrations.

The 16-day event on Washington’s National Mall was launched Wednesday with a rally by Trump to kick off America’s 250th anniversary festivities.

Visitors pose for a photo at the 'Great American State Fair' on the National Mall. The Freedom 250-backed Great American State Fair celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States

Visitors pose for a photo at the ‘Great American State Fair’ on the National Mall. The Freedom 250-backed Great American State Fair celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States 

The Hawaii and Alaska state exhibits share a space during the opening of The Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington D.C.

The Hawaii and Alaska state exhibits share a space during the opening of The Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington D.C.

A rodeo performer removes a painters' template from a horse during at the fair

A rodeo performer removes a painters’ template from a horse during at the fair

Another social media user described the event as a 'pathetic attempt at a 250 yr celebration' in response to photos from the fair that showed a particularly low attendance

Another social media user described the event as a ‘pathetic attempt at a 250 yr celebration’ in response to photos from the fair that showed a particularly low attendance 

Trump opened the Great American State Fair by declaring, "We are beginning the most unforgettable birthday party any country has ever seen"

Trump opened the Great American State Fair by declaring, ‘We are beginning the most unforgettable birthday party any country has ever seen’ 

‘We are beginning the most unforgettable birthday party any country has ever seen,’ Trump told supporters.

‘This evening, it’s my honor to officially kick off the celebration with the Great American State Fair.’

The president also declared: ‘America is back.’

But the fair has struggled to shake criticism from opponents and even some visitors.

Before opening day, several high-profile performers, including Martina McBride, Young MC, Morris Day & The Time and Fab Morvan of Milli Vanilli, withdrew after learning of the event’s ties to the Trump administration.

Trump ultimately headlined the opening ceremony himself after much of the original entertainment lineup unraveled.

Visitors have also complained about steep food prices, with chicken tenders and fries selling for $16, chicken on a stick priced at $19 and a bucket of fries costing $12.

Others mocked photographs showing what they described as low attendance and scaled-back attractions.

After visiting the event, Washington, D.C., Councilmember Christina Henderson posted on X with her own review. 

The sun sets behind a replica of the planned Triumphal Arch and the 110-foot 'Freedom 250' ferris wheel

The sun sets behind a replica of the planned Triumphal Arch and the 110-foot ‘Freedom 250’ ferris wheel

Much of the online criticism centered on claims that the event relied more heavily on patriotic displays than traditional state fair attractions

Much of the online criticism centered on claims that the event relied more heavily on patriotic displays than traditional state fair attractions

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 25: Visitors are seen from a ferris wheel as they attend the fair

WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 25: Visitors are seen from a ferris wheel as they attend the fair

A cowboy rides a top a horse during a rodeo at the Great American State Fair

 A cowboy rides a top a horse during a rodeo at the Great American State Fair

A performer displays rope tricks in a paddock at the Great American State Fair

 A performer displays rope tricks in a paddock at the Great American State Fair

‘Went to the Great American State ‘Fair’ yesterday so you don’t have to. Not a funnel cake, corn dog, bucket lemonade, or fried Snickers in sight. The only ride is the Ferris Wheel. It’s not that kind of state fair, y’all. Saxophones were not added to this recording.’

The post prompted a flood of reactions.

‘What a pathetic attempt at a 250 yr celebration! SAD!’ one user replied.

Another also seemed appalled at the quality of the production given the momentous anniversary. ‘Shame on you. You live in the greatest country in the world,’ they tweeted.

Other social media users also poked fun at photographs from the fair, with one writing: ‘So few people in attendance at the Great American State Fair that everyone gets their own individual porta potty.’

Another commenter mocked images of the food area by writing: ‘that’s… a food hall? It looks like a f***ing refugee tent!’

‘Food hall at Great American State Fair has lost power – they have food but tell me all their ice cream has melted,’ a separate post claimed.

Another user quipped: ‘I mean they can still offer algae toast the non woke breakfast,’ referencing the recent controversy surrounding algae in the Reflecting Pool.

The fair, organized as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, is scheduled to run through July 10 with exhibits representing all 50 states and six US territories, alongside concerts, demonstrations and themed events.

Mike Lindell Seeks to Resolve $2.3M Defamation Verdict

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Mike Lindell Seeks to Resolve $2.3M Defamation Verdict

Mike Lindell, the CEO and founder of MyPillow, addresses the media at his factory in Shakopee, a Minneapolis suburb, on December 11, 2025. He announced his bid for the Republican nomination to take on Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in the 2026 election. (AP Photo/Steve Karnowski)

Returning to court yet again, MyPillow’s Mike Lindell finds himself trying to overturn a $2.3 million defamation verdict.

On Monday, Lindell and his conservative media outlet, Frankspeech LLC, also known as LindellTV, submitted their initial appeal brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit.

This legal action follows more than a year since Lindell and FrankSpeech suffered a jury trial defeat in Denver against Eric Coomer, the former product safety and security director at Dominion Voting Systems.

Throughout his persistent efforts to demonstrate that the 2020 election was manipulated to favor President Donald Trump, Lindell accused Coomer directly, calling him a “traitor” and alleging criminal behavior, while including him in wider conspiracy theories.

After the defense submitted an error-filled, AI-generated filing, jurors found both Lindell and his streaming platform liable for defamation. In the latter instance, the case largely hinged on FrankSpeech hosting commentary directed at Coomer.

The genesis of the conflict between Coomer and the defendants, however, started with a man who was not a party in the lawsuit.

“Defendants began this targeted defamation campaign after Lindell aligned himself with an Antifa-obsessed Colorado podcaster and conspiracy theorist, Joseph Oltmann, who had made up a story about overhearing someone identified only as ‘Eric, the Dominion guy’ claim to have rigged the election against former President Trump on a supposed ‘Antifa conference call,'” the plaintiff’s 2022 lawsuit reads.

Though MyPillow was also sued, jurors declined to find the bedding company liable for defamation — an aspect of the verdict Lindell celebrated during an interview with Rudy Giuliani on LindellTV.

In the end, the Denver jury put Lindell on the hook for $2.3 million. In the aftermath, Giuliani remarked that the penalty was “measly” and “like peanuts compared to what they were asking.”

Measly or not, Lindell would rather not pay at all.

“Lindell and Frankspeech LLC ask the Court to reverse judgment in favor of Coomer and enter judgment in favor of Appellants on all of Coomer’s claims as a matter of law,” the brief reads.

The appellants say the judgment “must be reversed for several reasons.”

Chief among those reasons is an argument that Frankspeech itself is statutorily immune from liability under internet safe harbors for websites that allow other users to engage in speech online.

Those protections have been called “Better Than the First Amendment” by internet law scholars and appear in Section 230 of the largely struck down Communications Decency Act of 1996.

Here, Lindell and FrankSpeech say the company should be wholly insulated from Coomer’s defamation claims.

“Frankspeech is an interactive computer service, like YouTube or Rumble, that merely hosts and livestreams content that was originated by others,” the appellate brief goes on. “Because Frankspeech is an interactive computer service that merely hosts and livestreams content that is originated by others, it did not create or develop the challenged content within the meaning of the statute.”

In the case, the defamatory comments attributed to Frankspeech were actually made by another man, David Clements, during an August 2021 Cyber Symposium hosted by Lindell.

The court held that Clements’ streamed statements could be attributed to Frankspeech because it “sponsored, promoted, and broadcasted” the event, and jurors were allowed to conclude Clements was an agent of Frankspeech for purposes of the symposium.

Lindell insists that is not the law.

“If that were the legal standard, then no online provider would ever be entitled to this statutory immunity, which eviscerates the public policy underlying the Communications Decency Act,” the brief continues.

The appellants also say Coomer failed to prove the defamatory comments in question were made with actual malice.

Actual malice is the most exacting standard to prove in defamation law. The standard typically becomes operative when the person claiming to be defamed is a public figure – though Coomer alleged the standard was met.

In order to satisfy the actual malice standard, a plaintiff who is a public figure must present clear and convincing evidence that the defendant published the statement knowing it was false, or with reckless disregard for the truth — meaning the defendant actually entertained serious doubts about its accuracy. That standard is a lower bar for plaintiffs who are not public figures; they only need to show negligence on the part of the defendant.

Lindell says that high standard simply was not met — and cast blame on the judge who oversaw the matter.

“The jury’s explicit rejection of any punitive damages award against Lindell by finding that he did not act with willful and wanton reckless disregard, which requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt, eviscerates any finding of actual malice where the inquiry as to both is based on the same set of facts,” the brief goes on. “The district court’s reliance on evidence of Lindell’s alleged ‘hostility’ toward Coomer also fails to support the district court’s finding of actual malice under the applicable legal standard.”

DJ Mustard and Fiancée Brittany Stroud Debut First Photos of Their Newborn Son

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
DJ Mustard and Fiancée Brittany Stroud Debut First Photos of Their Newborn Son

DJ Mustard and his fiancée, Brittany Stroud, delighted fans by sharing the first public images of their baby boy during Father’s Day weekend.

Stroud celebrated the occasion by posting a series of family photos on her Instagram Stories, proudly revealing their infant son’s face to the world for the first time.

In one touching photo, Mustard is seen cradling his son, who is wearing a black-and-white striped romper and gazing straight at the camera.

Another heartwarming picture shows the devoted father asleep on a couch, with both his son and daughter nestled next to him, sharing the peaceful moment.

Stroud humorously captioned this adorable scene with, “The BEST dad and a wonderful grandfather,” referencing a baby doll beside their daughter.

The Stories also included a sweet father-daughter moment. In the snapshot, Mustard lay flat on his stomach with a red heart sticker on his forehead while his smiling toddler sat on his back.

Mustard and Stroud welcomed their daughter in 2024 and their son earlier this year. He is also the father of three children from his previous marriage to Chanel Thierry.

While he regularly shares updates about his music career, Mustard has largely kept his children out of the spotlight.

Still, fatherhood is something he has never shied away from talking about. In a previous interview with XXL, Mustard reflected on what being a dad means to him.

“It means everything to be a father. I had a father growing up, so I wanted my kids to have a father as well. And I just wanted to actually be there in their lives and make sure they got whatever they need and just keep them away from bulls*&^ and danger, you know, a lot of the bulls*&^ that goes on,” he said.

Glen Powell’s Underrated Serial Killer Film Climbs the Ranks on HBO Max

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Glen Powell’s Underrated Serial Killer Film Climbs the Ranks on HBO Max

Becket out on the street looking at something in How to Make a Killing

A24

Glen Powell undoubtedly ranks among Hollywood’s most promising talents, yet his 2026 film “How to Make a Killing,” inspired by the 1949 classic “Kind Hearts and Coronets” and crafted by John Patton Ford, didn’t live up to its title. Released by A24 in March, the movie failed to capture audiences. Its premise and potential have intrigued some, causing us to ask: what is this film about, and what makes it worth watching?

The narrative unfolds as Powell’s character, Becket Redfellow, converses with a priest from his cell on death row, awaiting execution. Through these discussions, we learn that young Becket, motivated by the dying wishes of his mother to pursue the life he merits, discovers he is a potential heir to a $28 billion fortune. To claim his inheritance, Becket embarks on a calculated quest to eliminate all relatives in his path. Complicating matters is Julia Steinway, played by Margaret Qualley, Becket’s childhood friend turned unexpected adversary, also chasing a hefty inheritance.

Despite its underwhelming debut at the box office—grossing only $21 million against a $15 million budget—”How to Make a Killing” has found some success on HBO Max, according to FlixPatrol. Critics, however, weren’t impressed with the film’s theatrical release. So, what were their thoughts?

Critics didn’t think Glen Powell’s movie How to Make a Killing killed it, apparently

Becket laying on a leather couch in How to Make a Killing

A24

On Rotten Tomatoes, “How to Make a Killing” received a tepid reception with a 45% rating, categorized as “rotten.” Critics found it bewilderingly inconsistent, despite Glen Powell’s charismatic performance. They remarked, “This tonally bizarre comedic thriller tries to critique the wealthy without quite sticking the landing.” What did individual reviewers have to say? The sentiment was not much different.

Billie Melissa from Newsweek commented that the film feels overambitious yet underwhelming in execution, stating it falls short of its aims. Similarly, Peter Travers criticized it on his site The Travers Take, describing it as a faltering thriller where Powell’s character must kill seven family members for his inheritance, questioning if the stakes are worth the story, “ultimately draining audience interest.” Frank Scheck concurred in his review for The Hollywood Reporter, comparing it unfavorably to other thrillers and pointing out its lack of boldness, especially surprising from the creator of ‘Emily the Criminal.’

Across the board, critics simply didn’t seem charmed by this effort from Powell. At least some of them, like Manohla Dargis for The New York Times, found something to enjoy; as she mused, “The story and the actors make ‘How to Make a Killing’ easy to drift along with, even if it never coheres tonally, logically, or, really, any which way.” We’ve got good news, though. If you didn’t love “How to Make a Killing,” there’s another Powell vehicle that might tickle your fancy.

How to Make a Killing isn’t the first time Glen Powell has played a killer … kind of

Ron talking to Madison in Hit Man

Netflix

If you want to watch a different movie where Glen Powell stars as a charming schemer who may or may not be a murderer, you’re in luck — because “Hit Man” exists. Released in 2023, based on a real-life story chronicled in a 2001 article by Skip Hollandsworth, and written by Powell alongside his director Richard Linklater, “Hit Man” focuses on Powell’s meek, friendly psychology and philosophy professor Gary Johnson. Gary isn’t just a professor, though; he moonlights with the New Orleans Police Department to help set up sting operations that suss out citizens attempting to hire hitmen to take out enemies or even loved ones. When the decoy “hit man” is pulled from the operations due to bad behavior, Gary has to step in … and accidentally figures out that he’s really, really good at pretending to be a killer. This leads him to Adria Arjona’s beautiful but troubled Madison, who approaches Gary (whom she knows as “Ron”) and asks him to kill her husband before the two start falling for each other.

Powell is so charming and so good in “Hit Man” that it encouraged Stephen King to cast him in Edgar Wright’s 2025 adaptation “The Running Man,” and even though he’s not actually a murderer in this movie, it pairs pretty perfectly with “How to Make a Killing.” “Hit Man” is exclusively available to watch on Netflix, and “How to Make a Killing” is a bonafide hit on HBO Max.

Good Samaritan Ministries Hosts Community Food Distribution Event to Combat Hunger

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Good Samaritan Ministries Hosts Community Food Distribution Event to Combat Hunger

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Friday, Good Samaritan Ministries hosted a food distribution event at the Carver Recreation Center in Johnson City.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by organizations throughout the region aimed at ensuring that children and families have access to food during the summer months.

According to Good Samaritan, the program is crucial in supporting working families who are juggling various financial burdens.

“It’s a choice between putting food on the table or paying the light bill, rent, or buying clothes,” explained Executive Director Aaron Murphy. “We want to ensure that food, a basic necessity, is taken care of. As a community, we need to tackle poverty and transform lives together, and this is one of the ways we can make a difference.”

The next food distribution event by Good Samaritan is scheduled for Saturday at 9 a.m. at East Pine Grove Methodist Church in Johnson City, where organizers anticipate assisting over 750 families through their efforts.

Inside Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Lavish $10 Million Wedding Plans

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Inside Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Lavish $10 Million Wedding Plans

Rumors have been swirling about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce planning to wed on July 3 at Madison Square Garden. Choosing the iconic venue reportedly makes sense due to its lack of windows and underground parking, which could significantly deter paparazzi from capturing moments of the event or glimpses of the high-profile couple and their star-studded guest list.

Nonetheless, some speculate that the buzz surrounding this potential MSG wedding date is merely a diversion tactic to keep the real details hidden. Whatever the truth, it’s certain that the celebrated pop star and the pro football player are gearing up to exchange vows soon, promising a lavish affair that ranks among the most costly celebrity weddings yet.

Professor Rob Wilson, representing Vettory, expressed to Showbiz Cheat Sheet that “This is set to be one of the decade’s most significant celebrity events. Taylor Swift’s international influence alone ensures massive media coverage, compounded by her strategic alliance with NFL branding, drawing immense commercial interest.”

“Estimating the cost realistically, we’re looking at $10 million,” Wilson added. “The choice of New York, specifically Madison Square Garden, primes it for commercial success, supported by sponsors right in the city’s heart. Security expenses might reach $500,000 to $750,000, and when you factor in the venue, fashion, transportation, and accommodation, costs escalate rapidly.”

Professor Wilson compared Swift and Kelce’s upcoming wedding to other celebrity weddings of the past, saying, “It probably then ranks alongside some of the most famous celebrity weddings over the past 10 or 15 years. When Kim Kardashian married Kanye West, that was around $3.5 million, obviously generating global headlines. George and Amal Clooney went to Venice, which was around $5 million.

“What makes this unique is the cultural impact, which means it can transcend into a different league when it comes to the cost and the commercial opportunities. Very few celebrities command the global attention that Taylor Swift does. Media value generated by photographs, guest appearances, and social media could easily exceed the cost of the wedding, so there is a huge commercial upside to this, and that is where the brand opportunities come in.”

He added, “The obvious ones are the luxury fashion houses, who have been competing to make the wedding dress, jewellery brands, and travel partners. Anyone who is associated with the event will be in the upper echelon of luxury brands. Even without formal partnership and sponsorship, the products featured at the wedding and in the official photographs will generate a huge amount of attention and therefore value.

“There is a huge opportunity around media rights, the exclusive photographs that will be released, and possibly even a documentary from Netflix or Prime or any streaming specials will command enormous interest. Whether it’s an intimate private ceremony or really extravagant, this is a defining moment in pop culture, part celebrity culture, part media phenomenon, and potentially one of the most valuable lifestyle moments we have ever seen.”

Even at $10 million though, Swift and Kelce’s wedding will rank much lower in cost than Jeff Bezos’ wedding to Lauren Sánchez, as their 2025 nuptials in Venice, Italy, cost in the neighborhood of $50 million.

Gotham FC Clinches NWSL Challenge Cup Title with Dominant Performance

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Gotham FC Clinches NWSL Challenge Cup Title with Dominant Performance

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Esther González’s first-half penalty and a late strike from Jordynn Dudley propelled Gotham FC to a commanding 2-0 win against the Kansas City Current in Friday evening’s Challenge Cup clash.

Gotham FC earned their spot in this prestigious match as the reigning National Women’s Soccer League champions, while the Kansas City Current entered the fixture as the 2025 Shield winners, recognized for holding the best regular season record.

This exciting showdown took place at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, noted for hosting Ohio’s inaugural professional women’s soccer game.

Gotham FC celebrates after defeating Kansas City Current in the NWSL Challenge Cup match at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field on June 26, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio.

Gotham FC celebrates after defeating Kansas City Current in the NWSL Challenge Cup match at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field on June 26, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

April saw Columbus being awarded an NWSL franchise, slated to kick off in 2028 and expanding the league to a total of 18 teams. The new team will be under the ownership of the Haslam Sports Group, which also owns the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer.

González capitalized on a penalty opportunity in the 37th minute following a foul by Kansas City’s Lo’eau LaBonta against Jaelin Howell inside the box. Dudley later secured the win with a precise low shot to the far corner, out of reach for Current’s goalkeeper, Marisa Jordan.

The match was scheduled during the NWSL’s summer break for the men’s World Cup. The league resumes the regular season July 3.
1...1,3491,3501,351...5,031Page 1,350 of 5,031