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Comprehensive Profile: Attorney Thomas Otake’s Background, Age, and Role in the Gerhardt Konig Trial

Thomas Otake Biography – Thomas Otake Wiki

Thomas Otake stands out as a distinguished American criminal defense attorney, currently serving as a partner at the Honolulu-based law firm, Alapa & Otake, LLLC. With a career spanning over two decades, Otake has carved a niche for himself in the realms of criminal defense and personal injury law.

Over the years, Otake has taken on a number of high-profile cases that have captured public attention in Hawaii. His exceptional skills and dedication have not gone unnoticed; he has been repeatedly honored with selections to BestLawyers and SuperLawyers. Furthermore, Honolulu Magazine has recognized him multiple times as the Lawyer of The Year in his specialty area.

A notable milestone in Otake’s career came in 2024 when he was inducted into the American College of Trial Lawyers. This elite group is an invitation-only fellowship that includes top-tier trial lawyers from the United States and Canada, who are celebrated for their superior trial advocacy, ethical conduct, integrity, professionalism, and collegiality.

In the same year, Otake co-founded Alapa & Otake, LLLC. Currently, he devotes his practice to advocating for plaintiffs involved in serious personal injury and wrongful death cases, a shift that aligns with his dedication to serving those in need.

Otake hails from Kaimuki and is a proud graduate of Iolani High School. He pursued higher education at Pacific University, earning a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science. He subsequently obtained his J.D. from the William S. Richardson School of Law at the University of Hawaii, laying a strong foundation for his illustrious legal career.

Thomas Otake Age

Attorney Thomas M. Otake was born and raised in Kaimuki, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Gerhardt Konig Trial

Defense attorney Thomas Otake is representing Gerhardt Konig, 47, a former anesthesiologist at Maui Memorial Hospital, accused of attempting to take the life of his wife, Arielle Konig, 36, during a hike on the Pali trail above the Nuuanu Pali Lookout on March 24, 2025. If convicted, he could face life in prison.

Police Chief Confident of Breakthrough in Gus Case: Anticipates Return to Key Location

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The young boy, aged four, was last observed playing on a dirt mound at his family’s Oak Park Station property in South Australia around 5 p.m. on September 27.

A new image of Gus Lamont has been released today.
Gus Lamont has been missing since September 27 last uear. (South Australia Police)

Today, SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens assured reporters of his “absolute certainty” that detectives will revisit Oak Park Station as part of the ongoing investigation. He expressed optimism that Gus will eventually be found.

“We are committed to this investigation until we can provide some resolution for the family,” Stevens stated.

“Over time, we have shown unwavering determination to bring significant investigations like this to a close,” he continued.

“I am confident that the same level of effort will persist in hopes of achieving a breakthrough,” he added.

He said the majority of the searches had taken place ”in and around the property”.

The most recent search for Gus was called off on March 12 after no evidence was uncovered.

Oak Park Station missing boy Gus Lamont
Oak Park Station, where Gus was last seen. (9News)
SA Police has released the first picture of missing 4-year-old boy Gus Lamont.
Gus, four, was last seen playing on a dirt mound at his family’s property Oak Park Station in South Australia around 5pm on September 27. (South Australia Police)

Last month, the top cop claimed that two members of the missing four-year-old’s family had been “not cooperating” with authorities investigating his disappearance.

“We are still working with Gus’ mum and dad and there are other members of the family who are no longer cooperating,” Stevens told ABC Radio Adelaide.

SA Police claimed to nine.com.au that two of Gus’ family members are “only communicating via their legal representatives”.

It is not known which family members have allegedly withdrawn cooperation with investigators.

SA Police declared Gus’ disappearance as a major crime in February and claimed that a person with close ties to the household, who is not one of Gus’ parents, had been previously speaking with detectives but allegedly “withdrew coperation”.

Police said that person was considered a suspect, though their identity hasn’t been revealed.

Josie Murray and Gus’ other grandparent Shannon Murray released a statement through their lawyers, saying they were “absolutely devastated” by SA Police’s statement on February 6.

Gus Lamont’s grandparent Josie Murray. (Nine)

“We are absolutely devastated by the media release of SAPOL Major Crime. The family has cooperated fully with the investigation and want nothing more than to find Gus and reunite him with his mum and dad,” the statement read.

There is no suggestion Josie or Shannon Murray are involved in the disappearance of Gus and it is not unusual for anyone linked to an investigation to seek out legal advice.

Police charged 75-year-old Josie Murray with firearms offences in February but have maintained the charges are not linked to the toddler’s disappearance.

Police inspect outhouse in South Australia search for Gus Lamont
Police inspect a nearby outhouse in South Australia in search for Gus. (9News)

Police earlier confirmed they had “all but ruled out” the possibility that Gus had simply wandered off.

“There has not been one single piece of evidence that we have located during that searching exercise, the most extensive search I think arguably in the history of South Australia, that has given us any indication that he did wander off,” Stevens said.

He insisted that finding Gus was the main concern of the state’s police force, saying he wished to bring closure to Gus’ parents, Josh and Jess.

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Blake Lively Enjoys Theme Park Visit as Justin Baldoni’s Trial Approaches

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Blake Lively enjoyed a fun-filled day at a theme park this week, even as her legal proceedings with Justin Baldoni progress.

The 38-year-old starlet, who recently shared highlights from her idyllic week in the Cotswolds, took to her Instagram stories on Tuesday to showcase her adventures at the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park in New Jersey.

This outing follows a series of legal victories for Baldoni as he continues his lawsuit against his former publicist.

In one of the photos, Lively is seen with Kendall Glazer, co-founder of Stoney Clover Lane, as they posed alongside a character from Paw Patrol.

The Gossip Girl star radiated happiness, dressed casually yet stylishly in a gray turtleneck and light blue jeans.

Her blonde locks flowed down past her shoulders in light waves while a yellow cap was placed on top of her head. 

Blake Lively, 38, had a blast as she visited a theme park this week as her trial with Justin Baldoni nears amid their ongoing legal battle

Blake Lively, 38, had a blast as she visited a theme park this week as her trial with Justin Baldoni nears amid their ongoing legal battle

One image showed Lively posing with Stoney Clover Lane co-founder Kendall Glazer as they took a photo with a Paw Patrol character

One image showed Lively posing with Stoney Clover Lane co-founder Kendall Glazer as they took a photo with a Paw Patrol character

The star also had fun on a Fairly Oddparents ride as she simultaneously talked on the phone. 

She added text over the photo which read ‘Work from home’ but then crossed out home to replace the word with ‘roller coaster.’

Lively had the chance to try out the Human Crane experience as she won a few items such as an inflatable donut. 

‘I’ve never had so much fun being humiliated in public,’ the Hollywood actress captioned the reel. 

The star reposted a snap shared by Glazer as the pair joined another pal to show off their wristbands to enter the theme park. 

It is not known if Lively was also joined by her children James, 11, Inez, nine, Betty, six, and Otis, three – whom she shares with husband Ryan Reynolds. 

However, the couple were recently spotted over the past weekend attending the Broadway show Just In Time in NYC with their three eldest kids, per a viral video on X. 

Lively has been active on social media and uploaded an Instagram carousel on Sunday to offer a glimpse into her latest trip to the U.K. with Reynolds. 

The actress jumped to her Instagram stories on Tuesday while living it up at the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park in New Jersey

The actress jumped to her Instagram stories on Tuesday while living it up at the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park in New Jersey

Lively had the chance to try out the Human Crane experience as she won a few items such as an inflatable donut

Lively had the chance to try out the Human Crane experience as she won a few items such as an inflatable donut

The star reposted a snap shared by Glazer as the pair joined another pal to show off their wristbands to enter the theme park

The star reposted a snap shared by Glazer as the pair joined another pal to show off their wristbands to enter the theme park

Lively has been active on social media and uploaded an Instagram carousel on Sunday to offer a glimpse into her latest trip to the U.K. with Reynolds

Lively has been active on social media and uploaded an Instagram carousel on Sunday to offer a glimpse into her latest trip to the U.K. with Reynolds

It also appeared that their children had the chance to take part in the getaway as well as her sister Robyn. 

She included a series of images that were taken when both she and the Deadpool actor cheered on his Wrexham soccer team at a match in Wales – although the team lost to Chelsea. 

Lively and Reynolds also paused for a quick selfie as they spent quality time together on the trip. 

They visited the Soho Farmhouse – which is a members only social club and hotel located in Oxfordshire. 

One blurry picture was taken as Reynolds carried one of their kids on his shoulders while strolling through a garden. 

She wrote in the caption: ‘so grateful for the best week with my loved ones. 

‘Thank you @wrexham_afc and all the players and everyone who works at that stadium for the performance of a lifetime. The greatest 10,000 people to share an emotional roller coaster with is in Wrexham.’

She concluded with, ‘shout out to everyone (like my sweet sister in slide 10) who thinks someone is taking a photo of their cute outfit, when it’s really a video.’ 

She included a series of images that were taken when both she and the Deadpool actor cheered on his Wrexham soccer team at a match in Wales - although the team lost to Chelsea

She included a series of images that were taken when both she and the Deadpool actor cheered on his Wrexham soccer team at a match in Wales – although the team lost to Chelsea

Lively and Reynolds also paused for a quick selfie as they spent quality time together on the trip

Lively and Reynolds also paused for a quick selfie as they spent quality time together on the trip

One blurry picture was taken as Reynolds carried one of their kids on his shoulders while strolling through a garden

One blurry picture was taken as Reynolds carried one of their kids on his shoulders while strolling through a garden

Her latest visit to the Nickelodeon theme park comes only days after Baldoni scored a series of positive outcomes amid their ongoing legal war. 

The presiding judge agreed to set new dates for pretrial proceedings, while allowing a lawsuit he’s filed to move forward. 

A federal judge said that Wayfarer, Baldoni’s production firm, is authorized to continue in its defamation case against his ex-publicist Stephanie Jones, legal documents reviewed by Daily Mail revealed.

Wayfarer claimed in legal docs that Jones told Lively, Reynolds and Lively representative Leslie Sloane that the production firm had sought to smear Lively’s reputation after she accused Baldoni of sexual misconduct.

Jones had petitioned the court to dismiss the lawsuit, but the court ruled that claims the firm made regarding Baldoni’s one-time publicist merited further probing, according to legal documents.

Jones also was rebuffed in her request to attach producer Jamey Heath to ongoing litigation, according to court docs.

Daily Mail reached out to representatives for Baldoni and Lively for further comment on the story.

A Wayfarer representative told Daily Mail last Thursday in a statement: ‘We’re pleased with the Court’s decision to deny Stephanie Jones’ attempt to dismiss Wayfarer’s lawsuit and to allow our core claims, including defamation and bad faith conduct, to move forward.’ 

A federal judge said that Wayfarer, Baldoni's production firm, is authorized to continue in its defamation case against his ex-publicist Stephanie Jones, legal documents reviewed by Daily Mail revealed; seen in 2024 in NYC

A federal judge said that Wayfarer, Baldoni’s production firm, is authorized to continue in its defamation case against his ex-publicist Stephanie Jones, legal documents reviewed by Daily Mail revealed; seen in 2024 in NYC 

The decision came after Baldoni's legal team claimed Lively's side bombarded them with an overload of documents as a tactical move with the trial looming in May; seen above in It Ends With Us (2024)

The decision came after Baldoni’s legal team claimed Lively’s side bombarded them with an overload of documents as a tactical move with the trial looming in May; seen above in It Ends With Us (2024)

The judge ruled in favor of Baldoni and Wayfarer, also extending deadlines in the case, with an April 2 status conference on the docket.

The decision came after Baldoni’s legal team claimed Lively’s side bombarded them with an overload of documents as a tactical move with the trial looming in May.

Lawyers for Baldoni and other people associated with Wayfarer asked Southern District of New York Judge Lewis J. Liman for a Zoom meeting, and an extra week for filing deadlines and the pretrial conference. 

Baldoni’s legal team said in the filing that Lively’s attorneys jammed up the proceedings with ‘voluminous disclosures that are not practical for trial purposes,’ according to court docs reviewed by People.

Lively’s attorneys submitted an ‘overbreadth’ of almost 1,000 items as possible exhibits and 40 people who could possibly serve as witnesses, Baldoni’s legal team said in their filing.

With the trial rapidly approaching, Baldoni’s lawyers said that it was not appropriate for them to have to contend with a ‘document dump’ in which they would have to review ‘voluminous amounts of plainly inadmissible material.’

Lively's attorneys submitted an 'overbreadth' of almost 1,000 items as possible exhibits and 40 people who could possibly serve as witnesses, Baldoni's legal team said in their filing; seen in 2025 in NYC

Lively’s attorneys submitted an ‘overbreadth’ of almost 1,000 items as possible exhibits and 40 people who could possibly serve as witnesses, Baldoni’s legal team said in their filing; seen in 2025 in NYC 

Baldoni’s attorneys said it was essential to get more time as they go over the materials submit by the opposition; and instructions for the trial jurors.

Lawyers for Baldoni said it was also ‘premature’ for a verdict sheet in the case to be prepared with so many moving parts, including a motion to dismiss filed by their side. 

Lively’s lawyers said March 26 that the requests made by the other side – claiming a ‘document dump’ – were nothing more than ‘an incremental tactic to delay the trial’ that ‘should not be rewarded.’

The latest developments in Baldoni’s favor come after he and Lively sat with Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave in a six-hour settlement meeting, in which they could not come to an accord ahead of a slated May 18 trial opening.

The contentious legal battle has gone on more than a year: In December of 2024, Lively named Baldoni in a lawsuit accusing him of sexual harassment, retaliatory conduct, and intentional infliction of emotional stress.

Lawyers for Baldoni said it was also 'premature' for a verdict sheet in the case to be prepared with so many moving parts, including a motion to dismiss filed by their side; seen in February in NYC

Lawyers for Baldoni said it was also ‘premature’ for a verdict sheet in the case to be prepared with so many moving parts, including a motion to dismiss filed by their side; seen in February in NYC

Lively also named a number of Baldoni’s collaborators, including his company Wayfarer Studios, the studio’s CEO and financial backer, and PR personnel.

Baldoni had initially asked for $250 million in damages from The New York Times, mentioning a report it published on the topic that he claimed was defamatory, then added it to the $400 million lawsuit he filed in January 2025.

In the suit, Baldoni named Lively, her spouse Ryan Reynolds and her publicist Leslie Sloane, citing the aforementioned report in legal documents. It was thrown out of court in June of last year. 

All parties have denied all of the allegations against them.

Tiger Woods’ Car Crash Investigation Reveals Hydrocodone Pills and Bloodshot Eyes, Authorities Report


ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Tiger Woods appeared visibly impaired when deputies arrived at the scene of his car crash in Florida last week. According to a report from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, his eyes were bloodshot and glassy, his pupils were dilated, and he had hydrocodone pills in his possession.

The report detailed Woods’ demeanor as slow and sluggish, with noticeable perspiration as he engaged with the officers. He disclosed to them that he had taken prescription medication earlier that morning. In his pockets, deputies discovered two white pills identified as hydrocodone, an opioid commonly prescribed for pain relief.

When questioned about his medication use, Woods responded candidly, saying, “I take a few.” He also mentioned that his attention was divided between his phone and the car radio before he inadvertently struck the vehicle in front of him.

When asked by a deputy if he took any prescription medications, Woods said, “I take a few.”

Woods told deputies he had been looking at his phone and fiddling with the radio before he clipped the truck in front of him, the report said.

The golfer was traveling at “high speeds” on a beachside, residential road in Jupiter Island when his Land Rover clipped the truck and rolled onto its side, according to the sheriff’s office, noting that Woods showed “signs of impairment.”

The truck had $5,000 in damage, according to the sheriff’s report.

Neither Woods nor the other driver were injured. Woods agreed to a Breathalyzer test that showed no signs of alcohol, but he refused a urine test, authorities said. He was arrested and released on bail eight hours later.

Woods’ agent at Excel Sports, Mark Steinberg, has not responded to multiple messages seeking comment. No one from Woods’ camp or the PGA Tour — he is on the board and is chairman of the committee reshaping the competition model — has commented since his arrest.

Woods, who has been involved in other crashes over the years, is charged with driving under the influence, property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.

Under a change to Florida law last year, refusing a law enforcement officer’s request to take a breath, blood or urine test became a misdemeanor, even for a first offense.

Discover the Ultimate Illinois Basketball Treasure Trove: Illini Fan Showcases Unique Memorabilia Ahead of Final Four


CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — In 2005, the Fighting Illini triumphed over Arizona, securing their spot in the Final Four. Fast forward to 2026, and the team is making headlines again, advancing with hopes of clinching a championship title.

“Our team has the potential to defeat any opponent on any night. We just need a bit of luck,” said Tom Scaggs, a devoted Illini fan and avid memorabilia enthusiast.

Scaggs possesses a remarkable collection, featuring coveted items like two Final Four basketballs and a net from the 1989 Elite Eight.

As he cheers for this year’s squad, Scaggs dreams of adding a game-worn jersey to his prized assortment.

Nevertheless, he acknowledges that acquiring such collectibles has become more challenging with the passage of time.

“Player access is a lot more difficult for autograph purposes,” he explained. “That’s something I’ve noticed. The University is much more protective of the athletes at this point.”

Out of everything in his “Illini Museum,” as he’s called it, a signed, game-worn Dee Brown jersey from the 2005 Elite Eight game is a top “highlight” of the collection.

“I think it’s the greatest game in the history of Illinois Basketball,” Scaggs said.

He also has a set of 2005 practice jerseys, NBA game-worn jerseys of former Illini, and a wall of signed photos, all from players on the 1989 and 2005 teams.

“I like to show people who are interested. That’s what it’s here for. That’s why it’s displayed in this manner, so others can enjoy it as well,” he added.

Some of those people include current head coach Brad Underwood, former coaches Bruce Weber, John Groce and Lou Henson, plus a slew of players. He said each person has a different emotion as they walk in.

“Most are amazed, and they pull out their phones and start taking videos and sending them to people,” he described.

There is only one blank space in his collection, something he hopes changes very soon.

“This empty wall here has always been my ‘national championship wall.’ That’s why it’s empty. I hope I can fill it this year. That’s the goal,” he said.

It’s safe to say all Illinois fans feel the same, as they prepare to head to Indianapolis and cheer the team onto victory.

Expansion of Industrial Warehouses Poses Threat to Savannah-Ogeechee Canal


In Pooler, Georgia, the Savannah-Ogeechee Canal Society is rallying its volunteers to safeguard a historic canal, as developers eye the adjacent land for warehouse construction. The Society’s commitment to preserving this natural treasure is unwavering, as they strive to protect it from the encroachment of modern expansion.

On a recent Tuesday, Holly Lewis and Wendy Sevendant, dedicated volunteers with the Canal Society, offered a guided tour of the scenic trail that winds alongside the canal. This trail, a hidden gem nestled at the rear of Tom Tripplet Park, offers a serene escape into nature.

“It’s a rare find these days, with the pace of development spiraling out of control,” Lewis remarked. “We must make every effort to preserve this precious piece of nature.”

Both Lewis and Sevendant are regular visitors to the trail, cherishing its tranquility and natural beauty. They express deep concern about the potential impact of further development, noting that trees have already been felled in the past, leaving parts of the Oglethorpe Speedway Park visible from the trail. This changing landscape underscores the urgency of their mission to protect this unique environment from being overshadowed by new construction.

Lewis and Sevendant walk the nature trail frequently and said they would hate to see it overrun by development. They said trees have already been cut down in the past, causing walkers to see portions of the Oglethorpe Speedway Park from the trail.

Pooler City Council has talked about passing an ordinance that would allow three warehouses to be built at 200 Jesup Road, right next to the canal and Tom Tripplet Park.

This development could bring pollution into the canal and extra traffic through the area, Lewis said.

“When you have development, not only are they taking up space, but the run-off and the exhaust,” Lewis said. “Whatever that development or those warehouses or businesses are spewing out affects all the wildlife around it.”

Along with the warehouses, the developers plan to pave a road through the trail that would allow traffic in and out of their facility.

“They want to build a road coming from the south across this undeveloped land, across the canal and into their property,” Sevenandt said. “That’s a real concern because we’re here walking along the trail and in nature, so we are going to see seme trucks coming across here. That’s really disturbing.”

The project doesn’t just impact the trail or the canal but the homes in the area and Tom Tripplet park, Sevenandt said.

“Park users having to look at this warehouse site, there is going to be a visual impact,” Sevenandt said.

The developers are required to have a 100-foot buffer between the park and the warehouses and a 25-foot buffer between the canal, Sevendant said. However, the pair said that is not enough space to prevent negative repercussions.

This ordinance is set to be back in front of Pooler City Council on April 2.

SoFi Stadium Wraps Up 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: A Milestone for Los Angeles

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The soccer landscape was electrified on a dramatic Tuesday as six teams secured their places in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with two of these squads set to compete at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood this summer.

Among the day’s highlights, Bosnia and Herzegovina delivered a stunning upset, knocking out four-time champions Italy in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout after a grueling 120 minutes of relentless action. This defeat means Italy will miss the World Cup for the third time in a row, while Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrate qualifying for their second tournament, their first appearance since 2014. They are scheduled to face Switzerland in Los Angeles on June 18 during group play.

Ranked 12th by FIFA, Italy’s unexpected exit has thrown the nation into a football crisis.

Meanwhile, Turkey emerged victorious with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Kosovo in Pristina. Occupying the 22nd spot in FIFA rankings, Turkey will meet the United States men’s national team at SoFi Stadium on June 25. The US team, positioned at 16th, had hoped to face Kosovo, who are ranked a distant 78th.

In other matches, Sweden, Czechia, and DR Congo also secured their spots in the World Cup through successful qualifiers on Tuesday. As the night game unfolded in Monterrey, Mexico, Iraq and Bolivia were locked in a 1-1 stalemate at halftime.

All five matches were decided by either one goal or penalty kicks. 

In total, 48 teams will play 104 matches, across 16 different host cities in three different countries.

SoFi Stadium will host five group play matches, two round of 32 games, and one quarterfinal match. 

Here is the full schedule of games that will be played in Los Angeles: 

June 12: USA vs. Paraguay

June 15: Iran vs. New Zealand

June 18: Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina

June 21: Belgium vs. Iran

June 25: USA vs. Turkey

June 28: Round of 32 match

July 2: Round of 32 match

July 10: Quarterfinal

Cook County Homeowners Await $186M in Property Tax Refunds Amid Tyler Technologies Upgrade Delays

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CHICAGO – In a developing investigation, the ABC7 I-Team is delving into the significant delays faced by Cook County taxpayers in receiving their property tax refunds.

Cook County officials have attributed these holdups to complications stemming from an upgrade to their computer systems, managed by a private contractor. While the issues have been resolved enough to process property tax bills, refunds remain elusive.

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Nearly a year has passed, and thousands of property owners, from Lyons Township in the south to South Barrington in the north, are still waiting on nearly $200 million in refunds.

Among those affected is Sherry Schnell, who anticipates a $10,000 refund due to an error in calculating her property’s square footage.

“I can’t believe it’s taking this long,” Schnell expressed. “I’m starting to wonder if I’ll ever see that money.”

And in unincorporated Elgin, Jim Duhr long waited on another $17,000 after repeated mistakes to his vacant land classification.

“I feel like I am living in the movie ‘Groundhog Day.’ Nothing is getting fixed,” Duhr said.

Cook County property tax refund delays are plaguing 83,000 property owners who have been waiting on $186 million since May 2025. That averages to $2,250 owed to each taxpayer.

Leaders are blaming Tyler Technologies’ computer system upgrade for the massive delays in refunds ahead of the Cook County property taxes deadline.

“If I was in charge, I think I would just fire everybody and start over,” Duhr said.

In all the cases the I-Team has investigated, the Cook County Assessor’s Office made assessment mistakes, and certificates of error were issued, but many were waiting on the final process of certification. The assessor’s office also blamed the long process of red tape between their office and others like the Cook County Treasurer’s Office and the Board of Review.

Now, the wait is continuing due to a computer software upgrade delay by Tyler Technologies, the private company hired by the county. The computer issues also delayed the distribution of tax property tax bills.

“If you don’t send the money, they’re going to be right after you,” Schnell said.

The Cook County Board has paid Tyler more than $30 million for its “property tax system contract” since it started more than 10 years ago. That doesn’t include millions more the county has paid to Tyler for other contracts and costs.

Board President Toni Preckwinkle’s office said, “The President’s Office has been holding Tyler, the Treasurer’s Office and the other property tax offices accountable for their work… and all other outstanding fixes.” Treasurer Maria Pappas says her office is doing all it can.

“I’m trying to get this money out to people,” Pappas said.

Tyler Technologies says this implementation required a generational technology update and it spent what it calls “countless hours” restoring missing data from county agencies, like the treasurer’s office and waiting for the county agencies to address “data anomalies.” The company added, “Our work depends upon cooperation and collaboration from agency stakeholders. The inability to process most converted refunds is due to the County not initially providing this data to Tyler.”

But Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is blaming Tyler Technologies.

“I am like a man killing snakes without a stick. And this company is incompetent when it comes to being able to deliver,” Pappas said. “Because they haven’t sent sufficient resources here to code to get the problems fixed.”

Tyler Technologies says it has been working around the clock for months at no additional cost. Tyler added, “We continue to work diligently with the Treasurer’s office to enable them to distribute refunds, which are being processed… We are committed to updating the system upon receiving the corrected source data from the County.”

In February, the company claimed their team has faced bullying and threats from Pappas.

When ABC7 Consumer Investigator Jason Knowles told Pappas, “Tyler Technologies says they don’t want to talk to you anymore,” she responded, “Well, you know what? They don’t want to talk to anybody who tells them the truth.”

There were also more than 2,000 government municipalities waiting on $8 billion in funding, but Pappas says her office was able to get much of that money distributed.

“What we did was, I worked with Chase, I went around Tyler, I worked with Chase. They came up with the program so I could get $4 billion out right away,” Pappas said.

After our involvement, Duhr got his $17,000 in checks, and Pappas says the rest should come soon.

When asked if “maybe people will be seeing their money in a week or so,” Pappas said, “I think so. I think so.”

The treasurer’s office added that it has given the computer company what it needs to get the job done.

You may be wondering about what happens to all the refunds sitting in the bank. The money does gain interest, but the treasurer says the county does not keep the interest. It is sent back to the taxpayer with the refund.

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DCLM Daily Manna 1 April 2026 — Beware of Spiritual Hijackers

DCLM Daily Manna 1 April 2026 Devotional by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi — Beware of Spiritual Hijackers

TOPIC: Beware of Spiritual Hijackers (DCLM Daily Manna 1 April 2026)

KEY VERSE: Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after – Colossians 2:8

TEXT: Colossians 2:8-12 (KJV)

8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:

12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

DCLM Daily Manna For Today MESSAGE:

The tragic hijacking of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 961 on November 23, 1996, caught the aviation industry and the whole world unawares. The flight took off from Addis Ababa, bound for Nairobi. Midway, some hijackers who posed as regular travellers like others seized control of the plane and forced the pilots to divert towards Australia, even though they were running low on fuel. The plane eventually crashed in the Indian Ocean in the Comoros Islands, killing many people.

Apostle Paul also warned Christians in Colosse not to allow spiritual hijackers to take them hostage. He warned strongly against false teachers who spread misleading doctrines, confusing upcoming believers in Christ. While new Christian converts naturally seek spiritual growth and thirst for a deeper knowledge of God, they can easily become vulnerable. False teachers, much like skyjackers, employ human traditions, worldly philosophies, persuasive speech, intellectual charm, counterfeit miracles, and sinister social media tactics to ensnare and exploit individuals.

So, what’s the best defence against spiritual hijackers? Know the truth and be steadfastly committed to Christ in whom the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily. Believers are complete in Christ. Therefore, do not seek spiritual experiences outside Him and the boundaries of Scripture. Christ’s sacrifice is more than enough for our salvation. Any teaching that undermines His redemptive work or suggests some false add-ons, rituals, or human formulas is to be rejected. In these days of increasing spiritual deception, God calls believers to be vigilant and discerning. Christian leaders must also pay attention to maturing God’s flock, focusing on Christ’s finished work rather than human contrivances. Jesus is sufficient for every need, and He is the answer to every question.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Every faith foundation outside Christ is sinking sand.

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Psalm 1-10

Deeper Life Daily Manna For Today 2025 was written by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.

REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!

Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:






Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.



Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold

AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Former Pinochet Agent Leverages Controversial Legal Tactics to Block Australian Extradition

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Highlights:
  • Rivas’s defence argued that, if extradited, she could be tried for a crime that did not exist in Chilean law when the events occurred, which could prevent her extradition.
  • The lawyer for the Chilean government held in court on Tuesday that the requirement of double criminality is met.
  • All of Rivas’ previous legal challenges have been rejected.

The Federal Court of New South Wales revisited the extradition case of Adriana Rivas, a former agent under the Pinochet regime, during a two-day session in Sydney this week. Judge Michael Lee was at the helm of the proceedings.

Rivas, who holds dual citizenship in Chile and Australia, continues her legal battle to halt extradition, maintaining her innocence against the charges she faces.

During her tenure with the Dirección de Inteligencia Nacional (DINA) from 1973 to 1977, Rivas is alleged to have been involved in the aggravated kidnappings of seven individuals during Pinochet’s rule in Chile.

Since 1978, Rivas has resided in Australia. However, during a family visit to Chile in 2006, she was apprehended but later released on bail.

In 2010, Rivas fled Chile unlawfully to return to Australia, where she lived in Bondi, working as a babysitter and cleaner until her arrest in 2019.

This week, the court focused on whether the charges against her should be classified as aggravated kidnapping or as crimes against humanity, a distinction with significant legal consequences for the case.

Chile’s government lawyer Trent Glover told the court on Tuesday that the double criminality requirement for the extradition had been met and that “the crime of aggravated kidnapping existed in the Republic of Chile when Rivas’s alleged acts and omissions took place.”

“If Ms Rivas is returned, surrendered to Chile, there cannot be any charge of a crime against humanity,” Glover said.

“Chile has very clearly set out, in considerable detail, that Ms Rivas will be prosecuted for those seven counts of aggravated kidnapping,” he added.

Rivas’s lawyer Sean Baron Levi argued that the statute of limitations had expired.

“If it were simply an aggravated kidnapping, there could be no criminal liability because the statute of limitations has expired. The only reason there is any criminal liability is because the action is classified as a crime against humanity,” Levi told the court.

Levi cited Chilean documents showing that the country’s courts have also classified the acts as crimes against humanity.

Adriana Rivas_Corte Federal 31 marzo 2026_2.jpeg

The support group for families of victims of the Chilean dictatorship in Australia appeared at the hearing. (March 31, 2026).

The defence also argued that crimes against humanity did not exist in Chilean criminal law in 1976 and 1977. It said a person cannot be extradited for a crime that did not exist when the events occurred.

That decision, Levi said, “cannot be left in the hands of Chile.”

Glover insisted that “this does not change the nature of the crime of extradition” and added that these issues are matters for the Chilean courts.

Elsewhere in the proceedings, Rivas’ lawyer indicated that the classification of the case could theoretically expose Rivas to the death penalty. “There is a recognition that at least theoretically there is a penalty of death that is open,” he said.

“At least this raises a potential concern as to the consequences of a mischaracterisation of the offence,” he added, though he also clarified that this outcome was not being sought.

Glover pointed out that Chile has abolished capital punishment in 2001.

Previous extradition cases that could shape the ruling

Both sides referred to the case of Charles Zentai, a former Hungarian who lived in Perth.

Hungary requested his extradition for a crime committed in 1944.

Australia reportedly refused because the offence of “war crime” did not exist in Hungarian law at the time.

Rivas’s defence argued that her situation is the same.

Glover, however, pointed out a difference.

“Hungary requested extradition for a crime that never existed in its own right, while Chile is asking for extradition for aggravated kidnapping, a crime that existed in 1976,” Glover said.

The 2013 High Court case Commonwealth Minister for Justice v Adamas was also raised during the hearing.

In that case, Australia extradited one of its own citizens to Indonesia, where he had been convicted in absentia for corruption.

The High Court reversed an earlier Federal Court decision that had blocked the extradition, ruling that the Minister for Justice had correctly exercised his power to approve the surrender.

Judge Lee raised the extent to which the Australian government must analyse another country’s law before authorising an extradition.

“Foreign legal systems deserve respect in the application of their own law,” Judge Lee said, adding that “the role of Australian decision-makers, including the minister, is not to anticipate or question that process.”

Sydney-based lawyer Adriana Navarro, who represents families of Chilean victims in Australia, told SBS Spanish that “the intention of the Rivas team is to try to convince the judge to look beyond what is required by the extradition law”.

She added that “the minister’s team, which ordered the extradition, also has alternatives if Judge Lee’s decision goes against them.”

A long road of appeals

The case of Adriana Rivas has dragged on for years, since Chile requested her extradition in 2014.

This was her latest bid to block the extradition after Australia’s government ruled in 2024 that she should be sent to Chile.

Rivas, 72, previously tried through her lawyers to stop the extradition by lodging judicial appeals, citing health problems, questioning the guarantees of the Chilean judicial system, and claiming the process was politically motivated.

All these attempts have been rejected by different judges.

The last failed appeal attempt was in July 2025, when Judge Erin Longbottom rejected Rivas’ claims that there were inconsistencies and unfairness in the government’s refusal to provide them with certain documents on which the decision to extradite her was based.

The government invoked legal professional privilege to avoid disclosing them.

Judge Longbottom upheld that position and found there were no irregularities.

Closing the hearing on Tuesday, Judge Lee announced that he will issue his ruling shortly.

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