News.Life

Three Men Arrested in Sophisticated Cannabis Cultivation Bust

Unknown crime, criminal cases, criminal law, drugs, police and law enforcement

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 The police in Northern Ireland have detained three individuals after uncovering a "highly advanced marijuana growing operation."
 
 in
 Co Down
 .
 
 
 
 The 'illegal drug operation' was uncovered in the Donaghadee region on Friday evening following an investigation by local authorities.
 PSNI
 went to a property in the region.
 
 
 The three individuals who were within the premises at the time escaped from the location using a vehicle.
 
 
 
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 Two individuals were apprehended in connection with an attempt to murder another man who was found covered in blood following a severe attack.
 
 
 
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 Tragedy as man and girl, 10, killed in caravan fire at popular holiday park in the UK
 
 
 Shortly after, the PSNI managed to locate and stop the vehicle on Antrim Road.
 Belfast
 .
 
 
 The three individuals were later apprehended, and upon searching the vehicle, a significant amount of what was believed to be herbal cannabis was discovered.
 
 
 The two individuals who are 35 years old, along with the third person aged 41, were taken into custody for suspected drug-related crimes, such as growing cannabis. They all still remain under police detention as investigations are ongoing.
 
 
 In a statement,
 
 Detective Inspector McAnee said:
 
 
 “We will continue to be relentless in our commitment to tackle the illegal supply of drugs and pursue those who profit from the consequent misery and harm.
 
 
 
 We urge anybody with knowledge regarding drug-related activities within their neighborhood to reach out to us. Even details that might appear minor can significantly aid our efforts in combating such organized criminal behavior and mitigating the damage it inflicts.
 
 
 You can also share information with the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111; this service guarantees complete anonymity and empowers individuals to come forward and help prevent crimes.

Three Men Arrested in Sophisticated Cannabis Cultivation Bust

Unknown crime, criminal cases, criminal law, drugs, police and law enforcement

The police in Northern Ireland have detained three individuals after uncovering a "highly advanced marijuana growing operation." in Co Down . The 'illegal drug operation' w…

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…

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…

Guaranteed Legal Aid for Inquiries Into Custody Deaths bezpo

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

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 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