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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
On Wednesday, Rhode Island Representative Teresa Tanzi (D) advocated for a legislative change aimed at eliminating a grandfather clause and employing “police power” to compel AR-15 owners to relinquish their firearms.
Earlier this year, in March, Breitbart News reported that Democratic lawmakers in Rhode Island were pushing to scrap the grandfather clause included in last year’s “assault weapons” legislation. This clause had allowed existing owners of now-banned firearms to keep them. However, a new push is underway to eliminate this exemption and enforce stricter penalties, including possible imprisonment, for possessing an AR-15. The vehicle for this legislative effort is bill H8073.
Tanzi spoke in favor of H8703 on Wednesday, saying, “Last year, we as a body, banned the sale, manufacture, and transfer, of certain ‘assault weapons’ as defined in that law. That was an important step, but it was only a partial one. We should be honest about that.”
In her remarks, Tanzi outlined that H8073 would require current AR-15 owners to “comply by lawfully selling or transferring” their rifles.
Addressing the argument that forcing owners to part with their firearms infringes on the Fifth Amendment’s Takings Clause, Tanzi argued that Rhode Island’s actions fall under the state’s “police power” rather than constituting a “taking of property for public use.”
Tanzi explained that H8073 will force current AR-15 owners “to come into compliance by selling or transferring them lawfully.”
Tanzi addressed concerns that forcing AR-15 owners to get rid of their property violates the Fifth Amendment’s Takings Clause. She countered these concerns by claiming the situation in Rhode Island is one in which a state “is exercising its police power” rather than “taking property for public use.”
Breitbart News reported that H8073, if it becomes law, would provide for up to ten years in prison for AR-15 owners who refuse to comply with the Democrat mandate that they dispose of their rifles.
AWR Hawkins is an award-winning Second Amendment columnist for Breitbart News and the writer/curator of Down Range with AWR Hawkins, a weekly newsletter focused on all things Second Amendment, also for Breitbart News. He is the political analyst for Armed American Radio and the director of global marketing for Lone Star Hunts. He holds a PhD in Military History with a focus on the Vietnam War (brown water navy), U.S. Navy since Inception, the Civil War, and Early Modern Europe. He enjoys reading Philosophy and novels by Jack Carr and Nelson DeMille. Follow him on X: @awrhawkins. You can sign up to get Down Range at breitbart.com/downrange. Reach him directly at awrhawkins@breitbart.com.
Lily Allen has exciting news for her fans in Australia and New Zealand—her West End Girl tour is officially heading their way.
The 40-year-old pop sensation took to Instagram on Sunday night to share the announcement that she will be performing Down Under.
The tour will commence in Auckland, with the first show set to take place at the Spark Arena on October 21.
The pop star, 40, announced the news she will be heading Down Under in an Instagram post on Sunday night.
The British singer will kick off her shows in Auckland on October 21 at the Spark Arena.
She will then travel to Australia to perform in Brisbane on October 23 at the Entertainment Centre, before heading to Sydney on October 25 to take to the stage at the TikTok Entertainment Centre.
She will then head down to Melbourne to perform at the Rod Laver Arena on October 28.
Her last show will be in Perth on November 1 at the RAC Arena.
Lily Allehas confirmed she is bringing West End Girl to Australia and New Zealand
‘This West End Girl is coming down under!! Australia and New Zealand, see you in October 2026 for a full performance of West End Girl,’ Lily wrote on Instagram on Sunday night.
Tickets will go on sale Monday 9th February at 1pm local time or fans can sign up to her mailing list for exclusive pre-sale access on Thursday 5th February at 12pm, local time.
Lily first hinted about the tour while speaking with Triple J radio hosts Tyrone Pynor and Abby Butler last month.
She let it slip when Abby asked her if she was ‘cooking up some plans’ to get back to Australia.
‘I am not at liberty to discuss any specific details, but I will be in that hemisphere before the end of the year,’ Lily replied.
She went on to thank all of her Australian fans for their support and promised they wouldn’t be waiting much longer to see her.
‘Thank you, all of Australia, for your enduring support over the years,’ she said.
‘It has not gone unnoticed. I’m sorry I haven’t been back in a while, but I will be there relatively soon.’
Lily hinted about tour while speaking with Triple Jradio hosts Tyrone Pynor and Abby Butler last month
Lily Allen is set to kick off a tour in the UK in March before moving on to the US in April.
She last toured Australia in February 2019 as part of her No Shame tour, performing in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.
Lily was recently seen leaving a Paris Fashion Week event with her new love interest, Jonah Freud, following a romantic trip to Italy.
The star, who recently had a very public split from husband David Harbour, has been getting very close to Jonah in recent months.
Her apparent new beau is the son of entrepreneur Matthew Freud and ex-wife Caroline Hutton, and the nephew of celebrated late artist Lucian Freud.
Lily and Jonah have been spotted on multiple dates and recently took things to the next level by jetting to Italy together.
They reportedly stayed in a suite at the Hotel Locarno, thought to cost around £800 (AU$1,579) per night.
The decade spanning 2011 to 2020 stands out as a golden era in the world of anime, marked by both the revival of beloved classics and the emergence of groundbreaking new series. Among these, the revitalized adaptation of Hunter x Hunter captured the hearts of fans old and new, while fresh titles like 2016’s My Hero Academia quickly ascended to iconic status. This period was a particularly vibrant time for shōnen anime, though it also offered fertile ground for diverse genres to flourish.
Even today, the influence of the standout anime from the 2010s is undeniable. These series not only advanced the art form but also laid the groundwork for the next generation of anime classics. The discussions and admiration for these works show no signs of waning, ensuring their legacy will endure for years to come.
One of the most significant events in this era was the 2011 release of a new adaptation of Yoshihiro Togashi’s acclaimed manga, Hunter x Hunter. This series captivated global audiences with its compelling narrative set in a universe where passing the prestigious Hunter Exam grants individuals a special license. Holders of this license, known as Hunters, enjoy unparalleled freedoms, the potential for immense wealth, and diverse opportunities, whether it involves wildlife conservation or apprehending dangerous criminals.
2011’s Hunter x Hunter Anime Adaptation Was Everything Fans Hoped For
In 2011, the new adaptation of Yoshihiro Togashi’s bestselling manga Hunter x Hunter took the world by storm. Set in a world where passing the annual Hunter Exam grants a license, the series follows Hunters who travel freely, earn vast sums of money, and pursue many paths, from protecting wildlife to hunting criminals.
For years, Gon has dreamed of becoming a hunter and following in the footsteps of his long-lost father. Working as a hunter is no easy feat, but over the course of Hunter x Hunter, Gon builds lasting friendships. The second Hunter x Hunter anime adaptation is much darker than it appears to be at first, and it will get fans hooked from the start.
2012’s Psycho-Pass Explores a Futuristic Dystopian World
Shogo Makishima holds a knife to Yuki Funahara’s throat in Season 1, Episode 11 of Psycho-PassImage via Production I.G
Psycho-Pass takes place in a world where technology called the Sibyl System is used to keep the peace. The Sibyl System allows higher-ups to track every citizen in Japan, keeping an eye on their mental state until they detect a trace of ill will. When this occurs, Inspectors are often called to take care of things, with former criminals known as Enforcers doing their dirty work.
Akane Tsunemori is a new member of the force who hopes to help uphold justice and make the world a better place. However, her perspective on the Sibyl System starts to change after she meets a criminal whom the technology she trusts so much failed to notice. As Akane tries to uncover the truth, she begins to doubt the justice system she’s trusted for so many years.
2013’s Attack on Titan Introduces Characters Who Became Famous
Hange and a titan in Attack on TitanImage via Wit Studio
In the world of Attack on Titan, humanity’s cities are guarded by large walls that protect them from the man-eating monsters that dwell nearby. These gigantic creatures, known as Titans, resemble human beings and are known to attack as soon as they see a person. Eren Yeager decides to join the military to fight back against the Titans.
Attack on Titan is an intense action anime filled with shocking moments, but it also has several introspective elements. As the anime develops, Eren begins to stray away from the path of a hero, but Attack on Titan‘s story remains gripping from start to finish.
2014’s Haikyu!! Is a Classic Sports Anime
Hinata and Kenma face each other on the volleyball court in Haikyu!! The Dumpster BattleImage via Production IG
Since its release, Haikyu!! has become one of the best sports anime of all time. The volleyball anime follows two rivals who find themselves playing on the same volleyball team. Initially, they’re not happy about working together, but they soon form an incredible setter-spiker combination that impresses their upperclassman teammates.
Haikyu!! is indeed a narrative about volleyball, but it also focuses heavily on its characters and their goals in life. Thanks to its character-driven storytelling, Haikyu!! appeals to people who aren’t interested in volleyball, and its story managed to keep viewers hooked from start to finish.
2015’s One-Punch Man Introduced an Unbeatable Superhero
Saitama raging with a bulging vein on his forehead in One-Punch Man Season 3Image via J.C.Staff
Saitama once lived a normal life until he decided to become a superhero for fun. His training gave him the power to defeat any monster with a single punch, but that strength soon left him bored. In search of excitement, he crosses paths with heroes and villains alike and becomes the unlikely mentor to the cyborg Genos, who is hunting a villainous cyborg.
Together, Saitama and Genos join the Hero Association in hopes of finding what they’re looking for. One-Punch Man delivers fantastic action and standout humor, with memorable scenes that still circulate online today. Combined with its lasting legacy, those elements make it a one-of-a-kind superhero anime.
2016’s Mob Psycho 100 Is a Visually Stunning Anime
Shigeo Kageyama, a fourteen-year-old middle schooler nicknamed “Mob” for how easily he fades into the background, is actually one of the world’s most powerful espers. Though he can defeat dangerous spirits with ease, Mob wants nothing more than a normal life. Instead, he spends his time working as the assistant to Arataka Reigen, a self-proclaimed psychic who’s really just a con man.
Mob seems emotionless, but he keeps his feelings in check because losing control could lead to disaster. As his powers draw him into strange encounters with spirits and other espers, that balance becomes harder to maintain. Mob Psycho 100 blends supernatural action, comedy, and heartfelt coming-of-age storytelling into a beautifully animated series.
2017’s Land of the Lustrous Explores a Bizarre Future
Phos looks pensive in Land of the Lustrous.Image via Studio Orange
In the distant future, Earth is inhabited not by humans, but by the immortal, jewel-like Lustrous. They fight the Lunarians, mysterious beings from the Moon who seek to use them as decorations. Among them is Phosphophyllite, a fragile Lustrous who can’t fight but still wants to be useful.
After seeking out their colleague Cinnabar, Phos is assigned to create a natural history encyclopedia, a task that eventually leads them to the battlefield. Phos longs to fight alongside the other Lustrous, but that wish comes at a great cost. As they lose limbs and memories, they gradually become someone very different from the naive being they once were.
Land of the Lustrous stands out for its striking blend of 2D and 3D animation, while the manga’s 2024 ending only deepened its lasting appeal. The anime wasn’t a massive hit, but it had a lasting impact, with ratings that beat out other popular series like Frieren.
2018’s Violet Evergarden Is a Touching Anime from Kyoto Animation
Violet Evergarden AnimeImage via Kyoto Animation
Violet Evergarden, a young woman of mysterious origins, has known only combat and bloodshed. Raised as the perfect soldier, her life changes when the Great War ends, leaving her badly injured and haunted by her final memory of the battlefield. Before seemingly dying, the person she cared for most told her, “I love you,” words Violet had never heard before.
After receiving metal hands, she becomes an Auto Memory Doll, a scribe who turns a client’s feelings into letters. Based on Kana Akatsuki’s light novels and brought to life by Kyoto Animation, Violet Evergarden follows a heroine learning how to live in a time of peace.
Through her work with the CH Postal Company, Violet searches for her place in the world and the meaning of those final words. Despite controversy surrounding its final film, Violet Evergarden remains one of anime’s most talked-about series.
2019’s Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Is a Classic Shonen Anime
Image via Ufotable
Set during Japan’s Taisho era, Demon Slayer follows Tanjiro Kamado, a boy who supports his family by selling charcoal after his father’s death. One day, he returns home to find that a demon has slaughtered his family, leaving only his sister Nezuko alive, though she’s been turned into a demon herself. When it becomes clear that Nezuko won’t harm humans, Tanjiro is given a chance to save her.
To find a way to turn Nezuko back into a human, Tanjiro joins the Demon Slayer Corps, where he’s soon joined by Zenitsu Agatsuma and Inosuke Hashibira. His journey grows even more personal when he encounters Muzan Kibutsuji, the demon behind his family’s murder. Though often violent, Demon Slayer stands out for its striking animation and lasting emotional impact.
2020’s Jujutsu Kaisen Thrilled Fans for Years
At first, cheerful high school student Yuji Itadori seems like an ordinary teenager, aside from his unusual physical strength. But when his classmates unleash an ancient Curse sealed within a rotten finger talisman, Yuji swallows it to save them and becomes the host of the feared sorcerer Ryomen Sukuna.
The Jujutsu Society wants to exorcise Sukuna from Yuji’s body, even if it kills him. However, the powerful sorcerer Satoru Gojo is intrigued by Yuji’s ability to keep control despite Sukuna’s influence and takes him on as a student.
Yuji soon begins training as a Jujutsu sorcerer alongside Megumi Fushiguro and Nobara Kugisaki. Jujutsu Kaisen has remained popular for its strong worldbuilding, memorable characters, and thoughtful treatment of its female cast. Though often funny, at its core, it’s a dark story that has captivated audiences.
Video above: Consequences for violating Polk County’s burn ban
In a recent development for residents of Polk County, Florida, authorities have decided to temporarily lift the countywide burn ban. This announcement was made on Thursday, catching the attention of many who have been adhering to the restrictions.
The burn ban, which was initially put into place on November 25, 2025, is now set to be on hold until 11:59 p.m. on April 16. This decision comes as a response to the county’s changing weather conditions.
Polk County Fire Chief Shawn Smith highlighted that the suspension follows a spell of heavy rainfall, which has alleviated the drought conditions that have persisted for some time. The rains have provided much-needed relief, making it safer for residents to engage in controlled outdoor burning activities.
A Michigan woman who disappeared overboard while on a sailing adventure with her husband in the Bahamas had previously made an eerie comment about their marriage just days before her unsettling disappearance.
Lynette Hooker, aged 55, fell into the waters surrounding the Abaco Islands while on a Saturday voyage with her 59-year-old husband, Brian Hooker.
The couple had been documenting their journey from Texas to Michigan on social media, living aboard their sailboat, Soulmate, for the past four years.
In a brief video uploaded to their YouTube account on April 3, Lynette humorously addressed the notion that constant togetherness might lead to annoyance between them.
An overlay on the meme-like video queried, “Don’t you two ever get sick of each other?”
Beneath the question was text reading ‘me and my husband,’ accompanied by two people dancing to the 90s dance hit Be My Lover by La Bouche.
The couple’s well-curated social media profiles depicted two seemingly happy and in-love partners traveling the world together.
But Brian has since been arrested in connection to Lynette’s disappearance, with his stepdaughter Karli Aylesworth alleging there was violence in the couple’s marriage.
Lynette Hooker, 55, went missing in the Bahamas after falling overboard during a boat ride with her husband on Saturday
Lynette Hooker was said to have fallen from a dinghy as she and her husband Brian were making their way back to their sailboat, Soulmate
Brian ‘categorically and unequivocally denies any wrongdoing’ and is cooperating with authorities, his lawyer said in a statement.
He was detained on the Abaco Islands on Wednesday, five days after he returned from a sailing expedition without Lynette and claimed she fell overboard.
The Royal Bahamas Police said Brian was questioned ‘on probable cause’ and was taken into custody as a suspect in connection with his wife’s disappearance. He has not been formally charged.
Officials said the couple were experienced sailors who had been traveling together for more than a decade, often documenting their life at sea on social media.
On Saturday evening, they took out an eight-foot motorboat from Hope Town in the Bahamas, but only Brian returned.
He told authorities that his wife fell overboard with the boat keys as they were returning to their yacht ‘Soulmate’, causing the engine to shut off and forcing him to paddle to the shore.
In a statement to the Daily Mail, Brian said he is ‘heartbroken’ by his wife’s disappearance, describing the incident as a ‘boat accident in unpredictable seas and high winds.’
‘Despite desperate attempts to reach her, the winds and currents drove us further apart,’ Brian said. ‘We continue to search for her and that is my sole focus.’
In a short video posted to their YouTube channel on April 3, Lynette poked fun at suggestions that the couple may grow irritated with one another after spending so much time together
Brian Hooker said he last saw his wife fell overboard in strong currents and he ‘lost sight of her’
Brian Hooker was arrested in the Bahamas on Wednesday in connection to Lynette’s disappearance. He ‘categorically and unequivocally denies any wrongdoing’
His attorney Terrel Butler said Brian ‘categorically and unequivocally denies any wrongdoing’ in his wife’s disappearance, saying he ‘has been cooperating with the relevant authorities as part of an ongoing investigation.’
Lynette’s distraught daughter Karli Aylesworth has called for a full investigation into the tragedy after she said her parents went through ‘prior issues’ before her mother’s disappearance.
Aylesworth told NBC News that it is unlikely her mother would ‘just fall’ off the boat, saying she was an experienced sailor.
The couple had been sailing for years and documented their voyages on social media under the moniker, The Sailing Hookers.
Aylesworth claimed that Lynette and Brian’s relationship was volatile and that they have a ‘history of not getting along, especially when they drink.’
In a separate interview with Fox News, she detailed an alleged history of domestic violence in her mother and stepfather’s relationship.
‘There is a history of him choking her out and threatening to throw her overboard. So, the fact that this is actually happening makes me believe there’s more to the story,’ she told the outlet.
‘There has also been a history of domestic violence in that relationship, so I do believe something might have happened to her.’
Lynette was an experienced sailor and her daughter claimed it is unlikely she would ‘just fall’ off the boat
Lynette’s daughter Karli Aylesworth called for a full investigation into the events leading up to her mother’s fatal fall and says her stepfather didn’t tell her of the tragedy for 24 hours
Aylesworth, now 28, pictured on mother’s lap in undated photo
Aylesworth also told WXYZ-TV she doubted her mother survived and was able to tread water that long, but hoped to find her to get closure.
Butler’s statement said that Brian’s denial of wrongdoing includes in particular ‘the allegations recently made by Karli Aylesworth.’
A source close to the family told the Daily Mail that Brian only called his stepdaughter a full day after Lynette went missing.
’So more than 24 hours later. We don’t know why. We don’t know if he was busy looking,’ said the source. ‘We just don’t know.
‘Karli has not really been back in contact since because she finds the circumstances a little suspicious.
‘They were a couple literally living on the bigger boat for four years and it would be hard for them to misjudge the chop if it was bad. They would have said, “hey, maybe we shouldn’t do this.”‘
On the hint referring to her ‘prior issues’ comment, the source said: ‘I’ve tried to tell her all relationships have disagreements. Her mom did tell her some stuff, but she doesn’t want to reveal anything more.
‘Karli was down in the Bahamas with them both at the end of February, beginning of March and she was actually on the boat at a slightly different place.’
After Brian’s arrest on Wednesday, Lynette’s mother Darlene Hamlett said she was ‘glad to hear’ that he had been detained.
She declined further comment, saying she was seeking more information.
Lynette and Brian had been married for more than two decades and lived in Onsted, Michigan
Earlier Wednesday, Hamlett said she wanted to hear more from her son-in-law about how Lynette vanished.
‘I’m going to be interested in what he says, because I haven’t heard from him in almost two days,’ Hamlett said.
‘Our family grew up on water and so Lynette her whole life has been near lakes, on boats, sailing and swimming.
‘It would be a miracle if [she’s rescued], but I’m still counting on one,’ Hamlett added.
Lynette and Brian had been married for more than two decades and lived in Onsted, Michigan.
Brian finally broke his silence in a Wednesday morning Facebook post, writing that he is ‘heartbroken’ over Lynette’s disappearance.
‘I am heartbroken over the recent boat accident in unpredictable seas and high winds that caused my beloved Lynette to fall from our small dinghy near Elbow Cay in the Bahamas,’ he wrote.
‘Despite desperate attempts to reach her, the winds and currents drove us further apart. We continue to search for her and that is my sole focus.’
Michael J. Fox has humorously assured fans he is alive and well after CNN inadvertently aired a tribute segment celebrating the life of the iconic 64-year-old actor.
Taking to Threads on Wednesday (April 8), Fox quipped, “What’s your move when you tune into CNN and see them reporting your demise? Do you… A) Switch over to whatever MSNBC is called now, (B) Pour boiling water on your lap to check if you’re still kicking, (C) Call your wife—hopefully, she’s both worried and comforting, (D) Chill out, since they pull this stunt annually, (E) Wonder ‘what the heck?’ thinking the apocalypse is nigh, only to realize it’s just you, and you’re totally fine. Much love, Mike.”
A representative from CNN provided a statement to DECIDER, saying, “The segment was published mistakenly; it has been removed from our platforms. We extend our sincerest apologies to Michael J. Fox and his family.”
According to Entertainment Weekly, the video segment, titled “Remembering the life of actor Michael J. Fox,” included clips from Fox’s interviews and notable works, as well as a focus on his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1991.
The video reportedly stated, “His most enduring role may have been as an unwavering advocate against Parkinson’s, a performance recognized with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2022,” as per EW. “Ultimately, Fox realized that his struggle with the disease brought out his best qualities.”
Photo: Apple TV
A representative for Fox told TMZ that Fox “is doing great,” and “was on stage and was giving interviews” at PaleyFest on Tuesday (April 7) for Shrinking Season 3, in which he guest-starred as Gerry, a character also battling Parkinson’s who bonds with fellow Parkinson’s patient Paul (Harrison Ford).
Members of the cast of the Apple TV comedy praised Fox’s talents while speaking with DECIDER ahead of Season 3, including Christa Miller, who said “there is no one better” than Fox.
“Michael J. Fox has the best timing of any comedic actor that I’ve ever worked with,” she shared. “I couldn’t jam myself into scenes with him, as much as I tried this season. I remember one time on Spin City, I said, ‘Write a joke for Mike on the fly,’ because Bill [Lawrence]’s so good at doing that. And he wrote a joke. He gave it to Michael. And the joke was all about timing. He brought down the house. No one better. Even Harrison was like, ‘Oh my god.’”
You can watch Fox in Shrinking Season 3, all of which is streaming on Apple TV.
A deputy from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is facing serious charges after being arrested for methamphetamine possession over the weekend. The deputy, Joshua David Nichols, aged 34, has been placed on administrative leave following the incident.
According to court documents, Nichols was apprehended on Saturday and charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Authorities reportedly found him in possession of a substance that tested positive for methamphetamine. Additionally, a burnt glass pipe and a clear bag containing a crystalized substance were discovered in his possession.
Nichols has been with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office since July 2024, as indicated on his LinkedIn profile. Following his arrest, he was booked into the Jefferson County Jail but was released later that day after posting a $5,500 bond.
As the case unfolds, investigations are continuing to uncover more details surrounding the arrest.
A new scam is targeting iPhone users, putting their personal information at risk.
According to a recent alert from Consumer Affairs, this swiftly spreading scam involves deceptive messages, including counterfeit “Apple Pay fraud alerts,” paired with high-pressure phone calls designed to lure victims into sharing sensitive details. The ultimate aim is to empty the victims’ bank accounts.
One individual shared an experience where she received a text message warning her of a suspicious Apple Pay transaction. The message prompted her to call a provided number for assistance. When she did, she was connected with a scammer posing as an investigator.
The scammer persuaded her to withdraw $15,000 from her bank account. Fortunately, a bank teller recognized the scam and advised her to immediately end the call.
These cunning fraudsters exploit the fear and urgency often felt by consumers when faced with potential fraud, theft, or legal issues, using these emotions to manipulate and deceive their targets.
Typical alerts warn that a purchase was attempted or declined, an account is locked or under investigation, or immediate action is otherwise required.
Consumer Affairs warned that if potential victims call an attached phone number or click a provided link, they’ll be connected to someone who is impersonating Apple Support, a bank, or sometimes even law enforcement.
The scammer will claim your money is at risk and may have personal details about you that make it seem more legitimate, urging you to act immediately to “protect” your money.
In many cases, victims are then instructed to move money to a “safe” account, withdraw cash, or send funds via Apple Pay, Apple Cash or a gift card.
The ultimate goal is to get the victim to authorize a payment themselves, because once they do, “it’s often very difficult to recover,” Consumer Affairs warned, noting that does not send unsolicited texts asking to call support or provide sensitive information..
Experts noted that there are clear red flags to watch out for with these types of scams, such as unexpected messages about Apple Pay activity, requests to call a number, pressure to act immediately, instructions to move money or lie to the bank, or requests for codes, passwords or personal information.
If you receive a suspicious message, don’t click any links or call the number. Instead, check your bank or Apple by contacting them through their official channels and check Apple Pay activity directly on your own device.
If you think you’ve been targeted, stop transactions immediately and notify your bank or card issuer.
In a case that has stirred both public emotion and debate in New York City, former police Sergeant Erik Duran was sentenced to a term of three to nine years in prison. This sentence comes after Duran was found guilty of causing the death of a suspect, Eric Duprey, by throwing a cooler at him during a pursuit in 2023.
The incident, which took place in the Melrose neighborhood of the Bronx, resulted in Duprey crashing his scooter and succumbing to his injuries. The tragic event has since become a flashpoint in discussions about police conduct and accountability.
In the aftermath of the sentencing, a petition garnered the support of over 11,000 police officers advocating against Duran’s imprisonment. Meanwhile, community members and activists expressed their disappointment, arguing that the sentence should have been harsher, aiming for a maximum of 15 years.
Despite his attorney’s immediate announcement of an appeal and a request for a one-week delay in the sentencing, Duran, aged 38, was denied a stay and was taken into custody. The state attorney general’s office, which took charge of the prosecution, had recommended the sentence that was ultimately handed down by the court.
The state attorney general’s office, which prosecuted the case, had asked for Duran to spend three to nine years behind bars.
Judge Guy Mitchell noted he had wide discretion in sentencing, from non-incarceration to up to 15 years in prison.
“I believe the sentence will deter other officers when they arrest suspects,” Mitchell said in explaining the prison term.
Mitchell said Duran “was upset the suspect was getting away” and thought “the only way to stop him was to throw the cooler.”
SEE ALSO: Former Marine charged in mass shooting is ordered to undergo psychiatric treatment
He said Duran “took it upon himself” to pick up the cooler and throw it at Duprey.
“Suspects sometimes get away and can be captured later,” the judge said. “He could have been caught on a different day.”
He said the sentence impacts both families, the difference being Duprey will not be here.
Duran apologized to Duprey’s family and addressed them in Spanish.
“I regret everything that happened; I’m sorry for the loss of your child. I never wanted this to happen,” he said. “I’m asking for the chance to be for my family, for my kids”
His attorney admitted it was a reckless decision but said, “Erik Duran should not be incarcerated for a decision he made in 2.5 seconds” … “a decision that resulted in unintended consequences.”
Duran was the first NYPD officer in a decade to be found guilty of killing a civilian while on duty. He was fired immediately after February’s guilty verdict. He was found guilty of manslaughter.
Two current Jacksonville officers, alongside a former officer, are now confronting felony accusations tied to purportedly embezzling upwards of $33,000 via overtime fraud, according to Sheriff T.K. Waters.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Felony charges have been brought against two current members and one former member of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) after Sheriff T.K. Waters alleged that they improperly claimed more than $33,000 in taxpayer funds through manipulated overtime claims.
During a press briefing held on Thursday, it was revealed that Sgt. Michael Rourke, Officer Christopher Sosa, and ex-Officer Dylan Bostick were apprehended on allegations of grand theft, organized fraud, and official misconduct. These offenses are categorized as third-degree felonies.
Back in March 2026, Rourke and Sosa were placed on suspension, while Bostick chose to step down from his position. The Sheriff’s Office is actively pursuing the dismissal of Rourke and Sosa.
This development follows the earlier arrest of Officer Christian Madsen, who was accused of fabricating over 200 hours of overtime, resulting in nearly $14,000 in undue payments sourced from the City of Jacksonville and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) grant reimbursements.
JSO said Madsen’s arrest led to a larger investigation into overpayments made to officers on the Motor Unit where it was discovered Rourke, Sosa, and Bostick all wrongfully submitted claims for compensation for overtime traffic assignments.
Rourke received more than $4,600 in public funds. Sosa received more than $10,700 in public funds. Bostick received more than $18,000 in public funds.
“No one is above the law, and our officers and employees will be held to the highest standards, which the public deserves,” Waters said.
JSO Integrity Unit detectives do not anticipate additional arrests stemming from traffic overtime misconduct.
