New York's Clean Slate Law, which seals criminal records for those who have stayed out of the legal system for a specified period, took effect, making New York one of 12 states with such legislation. The law aims to improve public safety and economic opportunities by preventing discrimination against individuals with criminal records, though it excludes serious offenses like sex crimes and Class A felonies. While praised by Governor Hochul, the law faced opposition from some lawmakers who argue it undermines public safety.
Standing or stopping is now banned on pedestrian bridges on the Las Vegas Strip, with violators facing up to six months in jail or a $1,000 fine. The ordinance aims to ensure a continuous flow of pedestrian traffic and increase public safety, but opponents argue that it violates First Amendment rights. The ban does not include waiting to use elevators, stairways, or escalators, and the county plans to install signs identifying prohibited areas.
A video showing Toronto police delivering coffee to anti-Israel protesters has gone viral, sparking controversy and allegations of preferential treatment. The police claim the gesture was meant to maintain order and de-escalate tensions during the demonstration. Critics compare this incident to the harsher treatment of other protests, such as the "Freedom Convoy." The incident occurs amidst investigations into a possible hate crime at a Jewish-owned grocery store in Toronto. The police's actions have been both defended and condemned by various individuals on social media.
Ryan Ashley, 31, from Gilmanton, New Hampshire, was arrested on charges of first-degree assault and reckless conduct with a deadly weapon after two men were shot and injured in Pittsfield. The incident occurred on Saturday morning, and the victims are now in stable condition. The shooting prompted a significant police response, and the suspect was apprehended in Gilmanton. There is no ongoing threat, and the FBI is involved in the coordination of the investigation. Ashley is being held pending arraignment, and witnesses or those with information are encouraged to contact the authorities.
Ishmael Partida Gonzalez, an 18-year-old motorcyclist, was arrested in Troutman, N.C., after nearly hitting a student who was getting off a school bus. The incident, captured on dash cam video, occurred when the bus had its stop arm extended. Gonzalez, who turned himself in, faces charges including passing a stopped school bus and reckless driving. He is held under a $250 bond.
A federal appeals court has reinstated a U.S. District judge's ruling to temporarily block a California law that would ban carrying guns in most public places. The law, which was to take effect on January 1, has faced legal challenges, with gun rights groups arguing it is unconstitutional based on the Second Amendment and recent Supreme Court rulings. California Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta, both Democrats, have expressed their commitment to gun safety and plan to continue defending the law. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals is set to hear arguments in April.
A person was fatally shot in Gresham, Oregon, after being involved in multiple physical disturbances. The shooting occurred early Saturday morning near East Burnside Street and Southeast 188th Avenue. The shooter has contacted police, been interviewed, and is not currently under arrest. Authorities have not released the victim's identity and are seeking information from the public.
A nor'easter is impacting the mid-Atlantic to Northeast regions, bringing a mix of rain, sleet, and snow. In Maryland, families are enjoying the snow with activities like making snow angels and sledding, while snow plow drivers anticipate business from the storm. However, the snow also poses dangers, causing vehicle accidents and road closures. Public works departments are preparing to tackle the slippery conditions to ensure safety.
Two men were injured in a shooting near the Citizens Bank in Pittsfield, New Hampshire, on Saturday morning. Police responded to the scene and found the victims in a parking lot, who were then transported to Concord Hospital. New Hampshire State Police have taken over the investigation and report that all involved parties are accounted for and cooperating. There is no ongoing threat to the public, and authorities are seeking information from anyone who has not yet spoken with investigators.
Two men were injured in a shooting in Pittsfield, New Hampshire, and were taken to the hospital. The incident occurred around 11:50 a.m. at 54 Main St. The suspect was later located in Gilmanton and arrested after a coordinated effort by local police and the Belknap Regional Special Operations Group. New Hampshire State Police are leading the investigation with the Major Crime Unit, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. The FBI is also involved, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact Trooper First Class Amanda Johnson.
Chaz Wearing, 40, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after a fight at a University City SEPTA station led to another man falling onto the tracks and being struck by a train. The altercation occurred on the Market-Frankford line platform, and Wearing, who has a criminal history and is believed to be homeless, was taken into custody shortly after the incident. The station was closed for hours, and SEPTA service was disrupted as police investigated the scene.
In University City, Philadelphia, a man named Chaz Wearing has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after a fight on a SEPTA platform led to another man falling onto the tracks and being struck by a train. The incident, which occurred at the 34th Street Station, was captured on video and is under police investigation. Wearing, who has a criminal history and an outstanding warrant, was apprehended shortly after the incident. Authorities are seeking more information and addressing concerns about increasing violence on the transit system.
A study by Everytown for Gun Safety suggests that nearly 300,000 lives could be saved over the next decade if all U.S. states adopted gun control laws similar to those in California and New York. The study correlates strong gun laws with lower rates of gun deaths, ranking states based on the strength of their gun legislation and its effectiveness in preventing gun violence. States like Arkansas and Mississippi, with weak gun laws, have high rates of gun deaths, while states with stringent gun laws, such as California and New York, have some of the lowest. The study's findings are opposed by the NRA, which argues that gun control laws do not effectively prevent gun violence.
A TikToker in Herndon, Virginia, known as "Kala," was ordered to stop her sub-basement tunneling project by local officials after gaining viral attention for her videos documenting the process. The city officials issued a stop work order and demanded an immediate evaluation by a professional engineer due to potential violations of the Uniform Statewide Building Code and concerns raised by neighbors about the excavation's impact on the area. The town is now working with the property owner to ensure compliance and safety.
In Philadelphia's University City, a man was killed after being struck by a SEPTA train when he fell onto the tracks during an altercation at the 34th Street Station. The incident occurred on Thursday evening and was captured on social media video, leading to the arrest of the man who threw the punch. Train service has since resumed, and police are investigating the cause of the altercation while dealing with concerns over increasing violence on the transit system.
