News.Life

Man Accused of Fentanyl Overdose Linked to Tycoon's Grandson Sentenced on Federal Gun Charges

Unknown crimes, criminal cases, criminal justice, criminal law, news

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 A person from Fort Worth who previously attended TCU and confessed to
 resulting in the demise of Dallas millionaire T. Boone Pickens' grandson
 has received a sentence of 51 months in federal prison for firearms offenses.


 In 2013, when he was 33 years old, Brennan Trainor Rodriguez confessed to administering heroin to Ty Pickens, who was just 21 at the time. Sadly, Pickens passed away due to an overdose. Both individuals were enrolled as students at Texas Christian University during this unfortunate event. As a result of his actions, Rodriguez received deferred adjudication related to charges of distributing heroin.


 He received a deferral of 10 years, beginning in November 2014. According to court papers, part of his community supervision terms barred him from having guns until his probationary term concluded.


 In late August 2024, roughly three months prior to when his deferred adjudication was scheduled to conclude,
 Rodriguez's former girlfriend informed the authorities that he had been engaging in stalking and harassment behaviors against her.
 Since their separation, as stated in a news report, Rodriguez was known for frequently firing weapons.


 About a week later, he was arrested. While searching his home, police found nine firearms, including a rifle equipped with a machine gun conversion device, the release states.


 He faced indictment in October 2024 and
 pleaded guilty in December 2024 for unlawful possession of a machine gun
 On Friday, April 4, Rodriguez was ordered to serve time in a federal prison by U.S. District Judge Reed O'Connor.


 Rodriguez might additionally face convictions for state charges including delivering a controlled substance and stalking. These cases remain unresolved.

Man Accused of Fentanyl Overdose Linked to Tycoon's Grandson Sentenced on Federal Gun Charges

Unknown crimes, criminal cases, criminal justice, criminal law, news

A person from Fort Worth who previously attended TCU and confessed to resulting in the demise of Dallas millionaire T. Boone Pickens' grandson has received a sentence of 51 months in federal priso…

交際相手の娘の虐待死疑われ起訴された男性『無罪』確定奈良地検は控訴断念「暴行してない」主張貫く

Unknown crime, crimes, criminal cases, criminal justice, criminal law

交際相手の娘の虐待死疑われ起訴された男性『無罪』確定奈良地検は控訴断念「暴行してない」主張貫く

Unknown crime, crimes, criminal cases, criminal justice, criminal law

奈良県橿原市で、当時4歳の交際相手の娘を死亡させたとして起訴され、無罪判決を受けた男性について、奈良地検は控訴せず、無罪が確定しました。山下翔也さん（28）は、おととし6月、交際相手の娘の女の子に暴行し、死亡させた罪などで起訴されました。裁判で、山下さんは「暴行していません」と起訴内容を否認し、弁護側は「日常的に暴行を加えていたのは女の子の母親」などと主張していました。奈良地裁…

Traveler Forfeits Undeclared $20,000 to Customs Before Boarding US Flight

Unknown crime, crimes, criminal cases, criminal justice, laws and regulations

On Wednesday, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Lagos directed a traveler bound for the United States, Olusola Okunfulure, to surrender the $20,000 seized by the Nigerian Customs Service to the federal government.
 
 
 On March 28, 2025, Okunfulure was apprehended by NCS officers when he arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. This occurred during the passenger inspection process for an inbound trip to the United States, as he had failed to report carrying $20,000.
 
 
 Judge Dipeolu issued the forfeiture ruling following Okunfulure’s appearance before the court due to charges filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
 
 
 The prosecutor from the EFCC, Chineye Okezie, informed the court that Okunfulure perpetrated this offense on March 28, 2025.
 
 
 Nevertheless, Okunfulure admitted guilt to the single charge.
 
 
 After his statement, defense attorney Joel Ogundire spoke on Okunfulure’s behalf, requesting the court to blend leniency with justice and to return some of the funds to the defendant.
 
 
 Ogundire stated: "For over 15 years, he has been a devoted family member. His banking records indicate that he is involved in a lawful enterprise. After being cleared, he was presented with the declaration form."
 
 
 We have no objection to losing $20,000 out of the $30,000 as required by law.
 
 
 During the review of the case, the judge asked the EFCC to submit its evidence against Okunfulure. An EFCC representative, Felicia Paul, presented their findings and stated, "I am aware of the defendant. The Nigerian Customs Service apprehended him at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on March 28 as he was heading to America."
 
 
 He was apprehended with $30,000, an amount he neglected to report. He was then transferred to the commission along with the same sum of $30,000.
 
 
 Supporting the EFCC’s case, Justice Dipeolu found Okunfulure guilty and ordered three months of incarceration.
 
 
 Nevertheless, the judge gave back $10,000 to him.
 
 
 I have taken into account the appeal presented by the prisoner along with the acknowledgment of his respect for the court’s time and consideration of various extenuating circumstances.
 
 
 "I hereby direct the convicted individual to surrender the amount of $20,000 to the Federal Government of Nigeria and serve a prison term of three months," stated Justice Dipeolu.
 
 
 According to the charges filed by the EFCC, the convicted individual did not declare an amount of $20,000 out of $30,000 to the Nigerian Customs Service when going through Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja.
 
 
 The anti-corruption authority informed the court that the offense violated and was subject to punishment under Section 3(5) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
 

Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).

Traveler Forfeits Undeclared $20,000 to Customs Before Boarding US Flight

Unknown crime, crimes, criminal cases, criminal justice, laws and regulations

On Wednesday, Justice Dehinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court in Lagos directed a traveler bound for the United States, Olusola Okunfulure, to surrender the $20,000 seized by the Nigerian Custo…

Prison Chief Calls for End to Prosecution Immunity

Unknown crimes, criminal justice, criminal law, government, politics and government

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 The head of Scotland's jails has told the families of two young people who took their own lives in prison that she believes crown immunity should be abolished.


 Theresa Medhurst said the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) should face the possibility of criminal prosecution over deaths in custody.


 Ms Medhurst made the comment during a meeting with the families of Katie Allan and William Brown, also known as William Lindsay, who both died by suicide at Polmont Young Offender's Institution in 2018.


 Under the law, the Crown, which includes the Scottish Prison Service, cannot be held criminally responsible for deaths in custody.


 The Scottish government said it has pursued a change in the law, but that it would require UK government approval.


 Last year a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) into the deaths of
 Katie Allan, 21, and William Brown, 16, made 25 recommendations
 , which were accepted by the SPS and Scottish government.


 The family’s attorney, Aamer Anwar, stated that the “stern and distressing” meeting with Ms. Medhurst on Wednesday was both challenging and emotionally taxing.


 Nevertheless, he emphasized that it was crucial Ms Medhurst had consented to abolishing crown immunity for the prison service.


 In 2022, the
 The Crown Office determined that a violation of the Health and Safety Act at the prison significantly contributed to the fatalities.
 However, it couldn't intervene because the SPS was shielded by the principle of crown immunity.


 Mr Anwar stated that the families will attempt to arrange a meeting with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to advocate further for legal reform.


 He stated: "In cases where the SPS aligns with removing Crown immunity, and both the Scottish government and all opposition parties in the Scottish Parliament support this removal, the key issue becomes whether the UK government will follow through."


 He stated: “The upcoming step for these families, as well as several others whom we represent, involves having a discussion with Keir Starmer and the justice minister, since they hold the authority to make this happen.”


 Clearly, there is solidarity throughout Scotland, encompassing all institutions along with families, aimed at abolishing Crown immunity. This situation is deemed unacceptable.

<h2>
 What is Crown immunity?
</h2>

 The doctrine of crown immunity asserts that laws generally do not bind the government unless explicitly stated.


 In essence, this implies that the state, encompassing governmental organizations and official entities like the prison service, along with certain times its staff or representatives, may receive protection against prosecution for crimes established through legislation.


 If someone passes away while being detained in a jail, the Crown cannot be deemed criminally liable for the deceased individual’s death.


 It does not protect them from civil liabilities, such as the
 The lawsuit filed by Allan Marshall's family was due to his death following restraint by as many as 17 prison officers.
 At HMP Edinburgh in 2010.


 In Scotland, Crown immunity might not shield prison officers or officials – for instance, if they get involved with a "personal communication device" like a mobile phone, whether by using, possessing, or providing one to an inmate.


 A clause within the Health and Safety at Work Act asserts that even when Crown Immunity is applicable, an individual may still face prosecution if they are responsible for causing a violation.


 Campaigners have long challenged the law, arguing that the public and private sectors do not operate on a level playing field.

<h2>
 'We didn't feel demonised'
</h2>

 Ms Allan's mother, Linda, said the meeting was "very positive," adding it was the "beginning of a dialogue" with the SPS.


 She said: "For the first time
 we didn't feel demonised by the prison service
 , but we felt listened to, and we found that very restorative."


 Speaking after the meeting, Ms Medhurst said: "This was just an opportunity to meet personally with the families, to offer our apologies for their loss, the tragic loss of Katie and William, and to apologise for the failures of the past.


 "And to ensure that they understand we are committed and determined to not only action the recommendations that we have accepted in full, but to ensure that there is systemic change across the organisation, which will be impactful and lasting."


 The families met the Scottish government's justice secretary, Angela Constance, at Holyrood ahead of a statement to parliament last week.


 A representative from the Ministry of Justice stated: "The Lord Chancellor has been sent the letter from the Scottish cabinet secretary for justice and home affairs and will provide a response at an appropriate time."


 A Scottish government spokesperson added: "The Scottish government will continue to pursue the lifting of the SPS corporate Crown immunity under reserved health and safety law with the UK government.


 "All of the recommendations in his determination of the FAI into the deaths at Polmont YOI of Katie and William have been accepted and the work on these is being delivered at pace with progress closely monitored."

<ul>
 <li>
 Safety action plan accepted after suicides at Polmont
 </li>
 <li>
 List of mistakes resulted in young inmates' fatalities
 </li>
</ul>

Prison Chief Calls for End to Prosecution Immunity

Unknown crimes, criminal justice, criminal law, government, politics and government

The head of Scotland's jails has told the families of two young people who took their own lives in prison that she believes crown immunity should be abolished. Theresa Medhurst said the Scottish Pr…

Trump's Administration Snags 'Extremely Violent' MS-13 Leader: Who Are They?

Unknown crime, criminal justice, news, politics, politics and government

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 Government authorities mentioned they apprehended an individual.
 top national figure of the Mara Salvatrucha
 The MS-13 gang in Virginia, which is a criminal organization.
 President Donald Trump
 labeled as a terrorist group.


 The
 Trump
 administration, including
 Attorney General Pam Bondi of the U.S.
 ,
 White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt
 and
 FBI Director Kash Patel
 , reported the arrest on social media Thursday.


 “I am delighted to share that earlier today, our courageous law enforcement officers executed a successful mission capturing an important MS-13 national leader,” stated Bondi on X. “The DOJ remains relentless in our efforts to ensure America’s safety.”


 
 Begin your day with more knowledge. Receive all the essential news directly in your mailbox every morning.
 


 At a press briefing, Leavitt referred to the gang leader as a "highly volatile person" who was apprehended at a residence also housing five children.


 The FBI, along with help from state and local law enforcement agencies, arrested the 24-year-old suspect in Woodbridge, Virginia.
 Fox News
 It has been reported. Authorities have confirmed that the individual in question is one of the leading figures within the El Salvador-based MS-13 gang, though they have not disclosed the suspect's identity.


 This represents a huge win for a more secure America," Patel stated on X after the arrest. "Justice is arriving.


 Here’s what you should understand about the MS-13 gang.

<h2 class="presto-h2 wp-block-heading">
 MS-13 first emerged in Los Angeles, California.
</h2>

 MS-13 was founded in Los Angeles, California, with more than 10,000 members residing in the U.S., as reported by authorities.
 DOJ fact sheet
 The street gang was established in the 1980s by Salvadoran migrants; however, its influence expanded quickly across Central America, particularly in El Salvador and Mexico, as well as within the U.S., after members were deported.


 A report indicates that between 50,000 and 70,000 MS-13 members are primarily found in urban centers across Central America or in regions elsewhere that have significant populations of people from Central America.
 The NCJRS virtual library
 states that despite being predominantly an urban phenomenon, the gang has expanded into more rural regions like Long Island and North Carolina. The report from 2018 also notes that its presence continues to grow in California.


 The report states, “MS-13 resembles a social group rather than a purely criminal one because it focuses more on establishing an intimidating communal identity instead of pursuing profit through illegal activities.” It further explains, “This is a decentralized network composed of various segments lacking a singular figurehead or structured leadership overseeing daily operations and actions within the gang.”

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 The report states that "violent behavior" lies at the heart of MS-13’s activities, making the gang a primary focus for law enforcement in the U.S. The study also revealed that one of the key ways the group generates income is through violent intimidation tactics like extortion.


 Federal officials
 identified MS-13 as a transnational criminal organization
 , which the
 FBI identifies
 As an organization operating beyond national boundaries and engaging in unlawful acts for financial gain, this entity encompasses various illicit operations such as drug dealing, people smuggling, human trafficking, money laundering, gunrunning, illegal betting, blackmail, poaching, online criminal activity, along with producing and distributing fake products.

<h2 class="presto-h2 wp-block-heading">
 Trump named MS-13 designated terrorists
</h2>

 On January 20, President Trump issued an executive order labeling eight Latin American cartels as "foreign terrorist organizations." These included groups such as Tren de Aragua from Venezuela and MS-13 from El Salvador, among others.


 Members of MS-13 have faced accusations and convictions for prominent murders, abductions, and drug smuggling across the Americas, spanning locations such as Long Island, Washington, D.C., and California. In November 2024, a
 A superseding indictment was made public in a Brooklyn federal courthouse.
 For accusations related to killings reportedly orchestrated and carried out by top figures, members, and affiliates of MS-13.


 "My office and our law enforcement collaborators have put relentless effort into ensuring MS-13 faces consequences for the unimaginable damage inflicted upon their targets and neighborhoods. The recent indictments underscore that our commitment to pursuing those involved won’t wane over time nor succumb to MS-13’s desperate efforts to remain concealed," stated U.S. Attorney Breon Peace last November. "This latest legal action further undermines MS-13’s hierarchy and showcases our ongoing mission to disassemble this organization from its peak down to its foundation.”

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 In the early stages of President Trump’s term, MS-13 frequently came up as part of his administration's efforts to enforce stricter immigration policies. This focus was notably aimed at individuals coming from Central America and those residing in so-called “sanctuary cities,” where local authorities refrained from cooperating fully with federal immigration officials.


 Trump frequently referred to the supposed gang members as "
 animals
 In 2020, more than a dozen MS-13 members faced indictment for terrorism offenses linked to their suspected participation in organized criminal activities across the U.S., Mexico, and El Salvador throughout the last twenty years.

<h2 class="presto-h2 wp-block-heading">
 El Salvador experienced an all-time low in homicide rates as part of their battle against MS-13 and other criminal organizations.
</h2>

 As MS-13 members face prosecution within the United States, both this gang and its LA-born adversary, 18th Street, have become primary targets under El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele's campaign against criminal activity. The nation has seen thousands detained in connection with these efforts, resulting in a significant reduction of violent crimes; notably, homicide rates dropped to just 114 cases in 2024, marking an all-time low for the year.
 Associated Press
 reported.


 Bukele stated that El Salvador experienced 1.9 murders for every 100,000 individuals, indicating that the nation has one of the lowest rates among all Latin American countries in 2023, as reported by the AP.


 Earlier this month, charges against Cesar Lopez-Larios, another MS-13 leader, were dismissed by the U.S. so he could be deported to El Salvador under an agreement with Bukele.


 The article initially appeared on USA TODAY:
 The Trump administration apprehended a highly volatile head of a major street gang. Who is MS-13?

Trump's Administration Snags 'Extremely Violent' MS-13 Leader: Who Are They?

Unknown crime, criminal justice, news, politics, politics and government

Government authorities mentioned they apprehended an individual. top national figure of the Mara Salvatrucha The MS-13 gang in Virginia, which is a criminal organization. President Donald Trump …

Guaranteed Legal Aid for Inquiries Into Custody Deaths bezpo

Unknown crime, crimes, criminal justice, criminal law, politics and law

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BMKiG" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BMKiG.jpg"/>

 Relatives of those who died while in custody will now receive instant, complimentary legal assistance and counsel duringFatal Accident Inquiries (FAI).


 Justice Secretary Angela Constance stated that she is utilizing current ministerial authorities to eliminate means-testing for legal aid in these instances.


 Starting from April 7th, households won’t be required to furnish details about their earnings.


 Constance revealed the relocation during her update to the Scottish Parliament regarding the modifications implemented after the passing of Katie Allan and William Brown—also identified as William Lindsay—at Polmont Young Offenders Institution.


 In January, a sheriff determined that the fatalities of Katie, aged 21, and William, aged 16, might have been prevented were it not for a "series of mistakes."


 In 2018, they ended their own lives in distinct events at Polmont.


 All of the sheriff's
 <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c62zn0lv0lyo?xtor=AL-72-%5Bpartner%5D-%5Bmicrosoft%5D-%5Blink%5D-%5Bnews%5D-%5Bbizdev%5D-%5Bisapi%5D">
 Twenty-five recommendations have been approved.
 </a>
 The Scottish authorities stated that these measures will be implemented swiftly and emphasized that advancements will be carefully tracked.


 Constance mentioned that offering free, universally accessible legal assistance would require primary legislation. However, recognizing the timeframe involved, she decided to use her authority to implement this starting from April 7th.


 Family support services will additionally be offered as well.


 Constance detailed the steps being taken, which encompass:

<ul>
 <li>
 An operation-specific team led by the chief executive of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS), with participation from NHS entities, has been established to guarantee that every recommendation is implemented.
 </li>
 <li>
 The chief inspector of prisons for Scotland under His Majesty will deliver an initial assessment by summertime regarding the independent review process for implementing Judge Collins' FAI suggestions.
 </li>
 <li>
 The Scottish Prison Service is revising its Suicide Prevention Strategy titled "Talk to Me" throughout all prisons. This updated strategy will be released by the end of this year, followed by a comprehensive training program set for implementation in 2026.
 </li>
 <li>
 A separate assessment of the FAI system has been initiated with the aim of enhancing the efficiency, effectiveness, and trauma-sensitive approach to inquiries concerning fatalities within prison facilities.
 </li>
</ul>

 Constance stated, "I felt thankful for the chance to reconnect with the families of William Lindsay and Katie Allan today and offer them my most sincere sympathies, just as I do to everyone impacted by a loved one’s death while in custody."


 We shall bring about enduring transformation through continuous and resolute actions, which they justly seek and merit. Since my address to Parliament in January, we have achieved significant advancements.


 She stated, "We will keep pushing for progress and enhancing accountability. The focus is on transforming the system along with the underlying culture."


 Liam Kerr, the Scottish Conservative spokesperson for justice, stated: "The inquiry's conclusions in January revealed a dysfunctional system."


 The fatalities of Katie Allan and William Lindsay were not only heartbreaking but could have been avoided, highlighting the urgent necessity for immediate steps to stop additional disasters.


 In light of the current crisis in the legal aid system, it is crucial for ministers to guarantee the required funding to enhance it, ensuring that families can obtain the assistance they require and secure the justice they rightfully deserve.

<h2>
 What became of William and Katie?
</h2>

 Sheriff Collins determined that William's demise was due to multiple individual and systemic failings by SPS and healthcare personnel at Polmont.


 He stated that "virtually everyone who engaged with him was somewhat to blame."


 He suggested that a sensible preventive measure would have involved keeping William—who had a past of trying to take his own life—under observation.


 The following morning after his arrival at a case conference, he was excluded from further observations. Additionally, the sheriff noted that the cell where he stayed had the potential to be secured safely for him.


 William was taken into custody after he walked into the Saracen Street police station in Glasgow with a knife in his possession.


 He was detained in custody due to being considered a "possible threat to public safety" three days prior to his demise as there was insufficient room in a youth detention facility.


 Regarding Katie's situation, the sheriff discovered that both prison personnel and healthcare workers failed repeatedly in correctly identifying, documenting, and disseminating pertinent information about her risks.


 Nevertheless, he stated that even with the advantage of retrospect, her demise was both sudden and unforeseeable.


 Sheriff Collins determined that if the Glasgow University student's cell had been secured at minimal expense, her death would not have occurred.


 A safety concern regarding the cell had long been acknowledged by the SPS.


 Katie was serving a 16-month sentence for dangerous and drunk driving after a hit-and-run incident.

<ul>
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c62zn0lv0lyo?xtor=AL-72-%5Bpartner%5D-%5Bmicrosoft%5D-%5Blink%5D-%5Bnews%5D-%5Bbizdev%5D-%5Bisapi%5D">
 Safety action plan approved following suicides at Polmont
 </a>
 </li>
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c8edwzz1j6yo?xtor=AL-72-%5Bpartner%5D-%5Bmicrosoft%5D-%5Blink%5D-%5Bnews%5D-%5Bbizdev%5D-%5Bisapi%5D#:~:text=Katie%20Allan%2C%2021%2C%20and%20William,the%20Polmont%20facility%20near%20Falkirk.">
 List of mistakes resulted in young inmates' fatalities
 </a>
 </li>
</ul>
<ul>
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cdd97zn80g3o?xtor=AL-72-%5Bpartner%5D-%5Bmicrosoft%5D-%5Blink%5D-%5Bnews%5D-%5Bbizdev%5D-%5Bisapi%5D">
 'My sister died as a result of the justice system.'
 </a>
 </li>
 <li>
 <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-68155676?xtor=AL-72-%5Bpartner%5D-%5Bmicrosoft%5D-%5Blink%5D-%5Bnews%5D-%5Bbizdev%5D-%5Bisapi%5D">
 Who was William? The overlooked figure in a prison disaster
 </a>
 </li>
</ul>

Guaranteed Legal Aid for Inquiries Into Custody Deaths bezpo

Unknown crime, crimes, criminal justice, criminal law, politics and law

Relatives of those who died while in custody will now receive instant, complimentary legal assistance and counsel duringFatal Accident Inquiries (FAI). Justice Secretary Angela Constance stated tha…

DNA Unlocks Identity of California's Elusive "Jane Doe" After Nearly 60 Years

Unknown crime, criminal cases, criminal justice, criminology, murder cases

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1ByVqW" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1ByVqW.jpg"/>

 More than 50 years after a woman's remains were discovered on a cliff in Northern California, DNA tests have finally unraveled the secret of her identity.


 On 18 December 1966, Dorothy Jean Williams’s remains were found on a cliff in Tiburon, close to San Francisco, by an individual hunting who then alerted the officials.


 They couldn't pinpoint Williams' identity, despite estimating her age at the time of death to be somewhere between 45 and 60 years old. This information comes from Othram, the forensic genetic genealogy firm claiming their techniques cracked this long-standing mystery.


 Described as sporting a red dress and an off-white trench coat with red hair, Williams stood approximately 157cm tall and had a weight of around 47kg at the time her remains were found.


 Even though they couldn’t verify her identity back then, officials discovered that a woman fitting Williams’s profile had been spotted at a fire station roughly three months prior to when her remains were located, as stated in an earlier report by a regional newspaper.


 It is said that she informed the employees she was stuck with no funds for transportation and asked if she could stay at the station overnight. Upon their refusal, she departed.


 The autopsy estimated her time of death to be approximately three months before the discovery of her remains, described as "severely decomposed" when found, as mentioned in the archived news article provided by Othram.

<div class="c-widget-related">
 <div class="c-widget-related__title">
 
 Related
 
 </div>
 <ul class="c-widget-related__list">
 <li class="c-widget-related__item">
 DNA tests resulted in the capture of the Golden State Killer.
 </li>
 </ul>
</div>

 Unknown for years simply as the "Marin County Jane Doe," she has now been identified after genetic testing shed light on her identity. It turns out that Williams, who went by the married name Dorothy Jean Vaillancourt, hailed originally from Tasmania, Australia.


 "The family of this woman likely believed they would never discover what happened to her after she vanished. However, nearly six decades later, thanks to Othram’s efforts, they finally know the truth," stated Kristen Mittelman, who holds the position of Chief Development Officer at Othram.


 The age of a case or its previous hopelessness does not matter; we have access to advanced technologies nowadays that can provide solutions for many families, just as seen in this instance.


 Multiple failed efforts were made to locate Williams, and her case was uploaded onto the National Missing and UnidentifiedPersons System (NamUs), listed as UP12018, stated the genetic analysis firm.


 The investigation concluded after the Marin County Sheriff’s Office collaborated with the California Department of Justice and sent evidence to Othram's laboratory. The team at this facility created a DNA profile that connected Williams to her family members.


 Euronews contacted the Marin County Sheriff’s Office seeking their input.


 Over the past few years, investigative genetic genealogy has emerged as a crucial method for cracking cold cases. By integrating advanced technologies with traditional family history research, this approach can uncover the identities of individuals linked to long-unsolved crimes, even ones dating back several decades.


 The technique made front-page news after it was employed to pinpoint Joseph DeAngelo as the Golden State Killer.
 resulting in his detention in 2018
 He was later found guilty and handed a sentence for 13 killings in 2020.

DNA Unlocks Identity of California's Elusive "Jane Doe" After Nearly 60 Years

Unknown crime, criminal cases, criminal justice, criminology, murder cases

More than 50 years after a woman's remains were discovered on a cliff in Northern California, DNA tests have finally unraveled the secret of her identity. On 18 December 1966, Dorothy Jean Williams…

Federal Judge Rules on Relocation of Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil's Case to New Jersey

Unknown courts, criminal justice, politics, politics and government, politics and law

A federal judge in New York ruled on the matter of
 Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate of Columbia University and a Palestinian activist
 will be moved from New York to New Jersey, where his attorneys will keep working on legal actions for his liberation.


 On Wednesday, Federal District Court Judge Jesse Furman ruled in favor of the Trump administration, stating that New York did not have jurisdiction over the case since Khalil was being held in custody in New Jersey when his lawyers submitted a motion contesting his arrest.


 Khalil was
 arrested by immigration officers
 About two weeks ago, near his apartment on the Columbia University campus. Khalil, a legal permanent U.S. resident who is married to a U.S. citizen, is a notable Palestinian activist and has held a key position in various movements.
 demonstrations against the conflict between Israel and Hamas
 On the Ivy League campus previously year.


 The Trump administration has labeled Khalil as a suspected terrorist supporter and an advocate for Hamas without presenting any proof. According to White House officials, Khalil circulated pamphlets endorsing Hamas, but his legal representatives refute this allegation.


 Although Furman’s ruling doesn’t affect where or whether Khalil remains incarcerated, he pointed out that Khalil’s attorneys allege the Trump administration is singling him out due to his involvement in protests supporting Palestinians, thereby infringing upon his rights under the First and Fifth Amendments.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AHGLo" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AHGLo.jpg"/>

 These are significant accusations and contentions that undoubtedly require thorough examination by a judicial authority," Furman stated. "The basic constitutional tenet ensuring every individual in the U.S. receives their rightful legal proceedings mandates nothing short of this.


 Currently, Khalil remains detained at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement center in Jena, Louisiana. He was moved there following his arrest in New York and a brief detention period in New Jersey.


 The spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Manhattan, who had presented the arguments on behalf of the Trump administration, has not yet responded to requests for comments.

<h3>
 Judge rejects Trump administration’s attempt to shift case to Louisiana
</h3>

 In a victory for Khalil’s legal team, Furman ruled against moving the case to Louisiana. Additionally, Furman rejected the government’s request to completely dismiss Khalil’s habeas petition, contending that doing so could cause postponements and permit his possible swift expulsion prior to a judicial review of all his arguments. Furthermore, Furman upheld an earlier decision preventing Khalil’s deportation until his case has been adjudicated in court.


 "It will be left for that court to evaluate Khalil’s allegations along with the petitions he has submitted so far related to these claims, specifically a request to move him from his current location of incarceration to a detention center within this district," Furman stated.


 “The government first moved Mahmoud to Louisiana, then it tried to move his federal case there, too, hoping for better odds in court,” Ramzi Kassem, one of Khalil’s attorneys, said in a statement. “The judge rightly rejected that approach and transferred the case to a court in the greater New York City area, close to Mahmoud’s home, where the case and, most importantly, Mahmoud himself, belong.”


 The judge ordered the transfer of the case to take place immediately and waived a rule that normally allows seven days for a transfer.


 “This is a first step, but we need to continue to demand justice for Mahmoud. His unlawful and unjust detention cannot stand. We will not stop fighting until he is home with me,” Noor Abdalla, Khalil’s pregnant wife, said in a statement provided by New York Civil Liberties Union, which is representing Khalil.


 His detention was ordered by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The Trump administration has been relying on a obscure section of US law which gives the Secretary wide authority to revoke a person’s immigration status if their “activities in the United States would have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences” to the country.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AHSW0" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AHSW0.jpg"/>

 His detention has touched off protests across the country following a Trump administration order to crack down on student activism on college campuses in opposition to the Israel-Hamas war.


 Khalil’s attorneys have filed multiple motions since his arrest – including a preliminary injunction seeking his release and to prohibit the Trump administration from executing its policy of arresting, detaining, and removing noncitizens who engage in constitutionally-protected speech in support of Palestinian rights or who are critical of Israel.


 The preliminary injunction, as well as a request to have Khalil physically transferred back to New York from Louisiana, will be heard by a federal judge in New Jersey.

<h3>
 Khalil speaks from inside detention
</h3>

 As the case is transferred across the Hudson River to New Jersey, Khalil spoke from inside the ICE detention facility where he is being held more than a thousand miles away from where he was arrested, describing himself as “political prisoner” in a letter dictated to his attorneys over the phone and reviewed by .


 “My arrest was a direct consequence of exercising my right to free speech as I advocated for a free Palestine and an end to the genocide in Gaza,” Khalil wrote.


 Khalil accused Columbia University of targeting him for his activism and enabling his detention by disclosing student records to Congress. In the letter, Khalil also accused the Trump administration of targeting international students, saying his case is evidence that Americans’ right to free political speech is at risk.


 “The Trump administration is targeting me as part of a broader strategy to suppress dissent. Visa-holders, green-card carriers, and citizens alike will all be targeted for their political beliefs,” Khalil wrote.


 A representative from Columbia University has not yet responded to requests for comments.


 Columbia University has not commented on Khalil’s arrest but has acknowledged the presence of immigration authorities on campus during the past few days. Additionally, at least two more students have faced immigration actions, one of whom is an Indian national holding a valid student visa.
 Who returned to Canada?
 due to her fear of being held back.


 In his letter, Khalil contended that the Trump administration is utilizing his imprisonment as a means to intimidate activist groups and individuals who oppose the administration's stances. He urged his followers to continue engaging in demonstrations.


 The stakes here go beyond just my voice; they encompass the basic civil rights of everyone," he penned. "Understanding that this juncture surpasses my personal situation, I still wish to freely witness the arrival of my newborn.


 
 Lauren del Valle from 's contributed to this report.
 


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Federal Judge Rules on Relocation of Palestinian Activist Mahmoud Khalil's Case to New Jersey

Unknown courts, criminal justice, politics, politics and government, politics and law

A federal judge in New York ruled on the matter of Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate of Columbia University and a Palestinian activist will be moved from New York to New Jersey, where his attorneys will …

Why Duterte's Drama Should Prompt Malaysia to Rethink Its Stance on the ICC

Unknown crime, criminal justice, international relations, politics, politics and law

If Malaysia is serious about its global legal credibility and commitment to justice, it must take this chance to return to the Rome Statute

 When former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte was
 arrested in Manila
 and transferred to The Hague to stand trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of crimes against humanity, his successor Ferdinand Marcos Jnr explained the handover as compliance with the country's commitments to Interpol.


 The international police organisation had indeed requested cooperation in executing the ICC's arrest warrant. But it was notable that Manila premised its justification on the Philippines' obligation to Interpol rather than to the ICC.


 Under Duterte,
 the Philippines withdrew
 from the Rome Statute, the treaty upon which the ICC was founded. However, the ICC retains jurisdiction over crimes committed in the Philippines while the state was still party to the Rome Statute.


 Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with
 SCMP Knowledge
 , our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.


 Consequently, the country's Department of Justice has found itself
 entangled in legal gymnastics
 As Philippine domestic politics grapple with efforts to achieve justice, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla bewilderingly justified the arrest under the banner of "international humanitarian law," a phrase typically associated with the regulations governing warfare.


 The uneasy intersection of domestic politics and international justice in the Philippines echoes
 Malaysia's own short-lived dalliance
 Six years ago, through the ICC, on March 4, 2019, Putrajaya ratified the Rome Statute and submitted it to the Secretary-General of the United Nations on the same day. However, on April 5 of that year, the administration reversed its decision. By the close of the month, as confirmed by the United Nations, Malaysia had formally annulled its involvement in the agreement.


 Malaysia’s dedication to the ICC, tracing back to 1998 when the original treaty for establishing the court was agreed upon diplomatically, faced an inevitable collapse due to divisive internal political dynamics. The administration failed to gauge the strength of public opposition effectively, leading to widespread confusion about the court’s authority and scope, which intricately linked with three key areas of national concern often referred to as the "three Rs” in Malaysia’s local discourse.
 race
 ,
 religion
 and
 royalty
 .

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</div>

 The former Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad, who held his position during these events, expressed frustration with those attempting to spread "confusion among the public, suggesting that this law undermines the rights of the Malays and the rulers." He firmly stated that such claims were "completely unfounded."


 The moment has come for Malaysia to reconsider joining and enacting the Rome Statute, especially considering the government’s increased engagement with international legal mechanisms concerning Palestine. The nation moved swiftly in this direction.
 offer political support
 For South Africa's 2023 case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) based on the Genocide Convention, Putrajaya highlighted Malaysia’s adherence to the treaty and urged “Israel to comply with international law and halt its offenses against Palestinians” immediately.


 In January 2024, when the ICJ delivered its interim measure directive requiring Israel to
 desist contravening its obligations
 Following the Genocide Convention, the Malaysian Foreign Ministry issued a statement supporting the international legal guidelines the subsequent day.


 When Malaysia allied itself with various other nations regarding the issue of Palestine under what became known as the Hague Group, their initial declaration made in January included numerous allusions to international law, the ICJ, the ICC, and United Nations resolutions, alongside emphasizing concepts of fairness.

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 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/AA1BXngo" data-reference="video"/>
</div>

 These diplomatic initiatives have been
 buttressed by legal action
 . When the UN General Assembly resolved to request the ICJ's advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories, Malaysia's foreign minister travelled to The Hague in February 2024 to submit an oral statement at the court's public hearing session.


 In reality, Malaysia had jointly sponsored the United Nations General Assembly resolution seeking an advisory opinion. Half a year prior, it had presented a detailed written submission asserting that "the entirety of Israel's occupation along with its policies and actions within the occupied territories infringes upon the right to self-determination under international law."


 There is a larger, modern context surrounding these actions that highlights why legal accountability remains crucial.
 extend to leaders
 , similar to how it operates within the ICC, instead of involving only states like the ICJ does. Amidst the turmoil reshaping the global landscape due to breaches of international norms, treaties being torn apart, and partnerships disintegrating, governments now face an extra layer of challenge from their citizens concerning unaddressed issues related to both national and international justice.

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 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BXp1s" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BXp1s.jpg"/>
</div>

 Israel's conflict in Gaza has demonstrated that occasionally it is the public's ethical guidance that sets apart a country from its leadership. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's
 defiance on Palestine
 In light of Western leaders’ disregard for international law—and possibly their determination to participate in its most severe breaches—an opportunity arises for more sophisticated discussions among the Malaysian populace about whether the nation should reassess its intention to join the ICC.


 The domestic discourse in Malaysia will face similar challenges this time due to the ongoing polarization prevalent in the nation.
 most taboo topics
 However, if Malaysia genuinely wishes to enhance its reputation on the global legal platform and demonstrate its dedication to judicial integrity, its leadership ought to capitalize on this outside support to kickstart the nation’s re-entry into the Rome Statute.


 Political will often serves as an obstacle to taking substantial steps toward accountability. Previously, the absence of Malaysia’s journey toward joining the ICC wasn’t due to a lack of support from Putrajaya’s political will. Instead, it was the insufficient backing from major sections of the populace that eventually influenced the royal institution via a political lens.


 These previous lessons should provide Malaysia with a more cautious and deliberate strategy for the near term.


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 The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.


 Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Why Duterte's Drama Should Prompt Malaysia to Rethink Its Stance on the ICC

Unknown crime, criminal justice, international relations, politics, politics and law

If Malaysia is serious about its global legal credibility and commitment to justice, it must take this chance to return to the Rome Statute When former Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte was arre…