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Cambodia Still Obtaining Criminal Confessions Through Torture: Rights Group
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UK: Jamaican Drug Offender Avoids Deportation After ECHR Appeal
A Jamaican national convicted twice for heroin dealing has successfully avoided deportation from the UK, citing violations of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The 39-year-old man, whose identity has been withheld, argued that deportation would breach his right to family life and expose him to inhuman or degrading treatment in his homeland. The man came to the UK at the age of 16 in 2001 and overstayed his visa. Arrested in 2006 for immigration violations, he later faced convictions for drug offences, including an 18-month sentence in 2011 and a 30-month sentence in 2020 for dealing heroin. Despite his criminal record, his appeal against deportation has prompted the case to be reconsidered by an upper tribunal. The Jamaican claimed to have suffered abuse in his childhood and argued that returning to Jamaica would endanger his safety and well-being. He also stated that he was a victim of trafficking in his home country before migrating to the UK. The upper tribunal ruled that the initial hearing failed to account for all the evidence and denied him a fair trial by proceeding in his absence, despite his claim of illness. The Home Office had previously served the man with a deportation order in 2020, describing him as a “danger to the community” due to his repeated involvement in serious drug offences. However, under Articles 3 and 8 of the ECHR, the man contended that deportation would violate his right to family life and subject him to potential harm in Jamaica. The decision has sparked criticism, with many calling for a reassessment of the UK's relationship with the ECHR. The case follows a similar controversy involving a Turkish drug dealer who avoided deportation after arguing that it would violate his human rights. The 70-year-old Turkish man, also granted anonymity, had been jailed for 16 years for plotting to distribute heroin across the UK. He claimed persecution as an Alevi Kurd if deported to Turkey, despite evidence of multiple trips back to his homeland without incident. The UN Refugee Agency supported the Turkish man’s claim, despite the Home Office’s stance that his continued presence was not in the public interest. Critics argue that cases like these undermine public confidence in immigration enforcement and the justice system. The Jamaican man’s case will now be reconsidered, raising questions about the balance between human rights protections and public safety. While the upper tribunal’s ruling emphasized procedural fairness, critics argue that the man’s criminal history and the danger he poses to the community should weigh heavily in any final decision. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2024-12-23 -
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Dark Legacy of Columbine: Cult Fascination and its Global Influence on School Shootings
On April 20, 1999, Columbine High School became the scene of one of the most infamous school shootings in history. Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, two teenagers clad in black trench coats, stormed the Colorado school armed with guns and homemade bombs, killing 12 students and a teacher while wounding over two dozen others before taking their own lives. At the time, it was the deadliest school shooting in American history, but its aftermath extended far beyond the initial tragedy. PATRICK IRELAND, better known as “the boy in the window.” He was shot 2x in the head, 1x in the leg and managed to crawl out a broken window. His famous escape was caught on camera. He survived. Virginia Tech shooter Seung-Hui Cho, responsible for killing 32 people in 2007, expressed a desire to "repeat Columbine" in his manifesto. Sandy Hook gunman Adam Lanza, who killed 26 people in 2012, was found to have an "obsession" with the Columbine perpetrators, even creating a Tumblr page in homage to them. Similarly, Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz extensively researched the massacre before his 2018 attack, which claimed 17 lives. The recent tragedy at a small Christian school in Madison, Wisconsin, is yet another grim example. Fifteen-year-old Natalie Rupnow opened fire, killing a teacher and a fellow student, and injuring six others before turning the gun on herself. Disturbingly, Rupnow was photographed wearing the same band t-shirt as Eric Harris, underscoring Columbine's enduring influence. Unlike targeted attacks, Columbine was characterized by indiscriminate violence. Harris and Klebold documented their plans in home videos and a manifesto, ensuring their story would persist. Their attack occurred at the dawn of the digital age and the 24-hour news cycle, amplifying its reach and embedding it into public consciousness. For many Columbiners, Harris and Klebold represent antiheroes. Despite misconceptions, neither was a loner or an outcast. However, their personas as misunderstood youths resonate with followers who identify as social misfits. This misplaced admiration has fueled a dangerous legacy, turning Columbine into a playbook for subsequent school shootings. In Germany, Robert Steinhäuser killed 16 people at his school in 2002 after studying Columbine online. Similarly, Finnish gunman Matti Saari killed 10 students in 2008, leaving behind chilling videos and notes that mirrored Harris and Klebold’s plans. This legacy has spurred investigators to warn about the dangers of glorifying such perpetrators. The digital age has not only preserved the Columbine killers' infamy but also provided a platform for vulnerable individuals to romanticize their actions. As tragedies like Rupnow’s continue to unfold, Columbine’s shadow looms large, a grim reminder of how violence can inspire further devastation when its perpetrators are mythologized rather than condemned. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2024-12-23 -
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IRA Bomb Survivor Urges Gerry Adams to Reveal the Truth
Jonathan Ganesh, a survivor of the 1996 IRA bombing in London's docklands, has called on Gerry Adams, the former president of Sinn Féin, to provide clarity about his alleged involvement with the IRA. The attack claimed the lives of two people and injured many others, including Ganesh, who was working as a security guard while pursuing law studies. Ganesh is among three individuals pursuing a civil case against Adams, seeking symbolic damages of £1 for "vindicatory purposes." The other plaintiffs are John Clark, a survivor of the Old Bailey bombing in 1973, and Barry Laycock, injured in the Manchester IRA bombing of 1996. Adams, who has consistently denied membership in the IRA, is expected to testify in his defense during a High Court hearing set for 2026. Speaking to BBC Radio Ulster’s Good Morning Ulster, Ganesh described the decision to initiate legal action as difficult but necessary. "It wasn't an easy decision to make," he said, "but we believe it was the right decision. It might be the last opportunity that victims of IRA terrorism have." When asked about his expectations from Adams during the court proceedings, Ganesh was unequivocal: "Just tell us the truth. Were you in the IRA or not in the IRA?" He emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, "We must have some sort of closure for the victims. The Troubles in Northern Ireland have left an awful legacy." Ganesh acknowledged that their civil case would not lead to criminal repercussions. "We appreciate they are not going to put anyone in prison," he noted. However, he expressed hope that Adams could provide answers due to his vocal support for the IRA during the conflict. "Because Mr. Adams was so vocal with his support for the IRA, we do believe he may be able to give us some answers. We just need to get that closure." Reflecting on the bombing's impact, Ganesh described the enduring pain it caused. "The injuries I suffered in the bomb have had a terrible impact on my life. I think it will always be there. It will always haunt me," he said. Yet, he considers himself fortunate to have survived. "I describe myself as one of the lucky ones," he added. Despite the physical and emotional scars, Ganesh revealed that he has chosen to forgive those responsible for the attack. "I have forgiven the people that hurt me and my two friends who were killed because forgiveness allows me to move forward with my life," he explained. Nonetheless, he maintained the necessity of accountability. "There must be some accountability," he insisted. Ganesh also underscored the importance of the Northern Ireland peace process, noting its success while highlighting unresolved issues. "The peace process has worked and we support that… but there is something left that we have to resolve," he concluded. For Ganesh and the other plaintiffs, the pursuit of truth and accountability remains an essential step toward healing the wounds left by decades of violence. Based on a report by BBC 2024-12-23 -
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Exploration of the Virgin Birth That Maybe Wasn’t
In an enlightening conversation, Elaine Pagels, a distinguished professor of religion at Princeton University, engages with Nicholas Kristof about her upcoming book, *Miracles and Wonder*, which tackles the virgin birth of Jesus and its historical implications. Known for her expertise on early Christianity, Pagels offers a perspective that blends faith and academic inquiry, urging readers to reflect critically on traditional narratives while also appreciating their spiritual significance. Kristof, acknowledging the sensitivity of the topic for devout believers, begins the conversation by emphasizing the importance of balancing historical research with respect for those who hold deep faith. Pagels responds with a thoughtful approach, explaining her love for the Gospel stories. “The skies opened up when I heard them,” she recalls, speaking of the profound emotional and spiritual impact these stories have. However, she also stresses that while these stories are deeply meaningful, they should be understood not merely as historical accounts but also as metaphors that convey deeper truths about human experience and divine mystery. Pagels then turns to the topic of the virgin birth. Of the four Gospels, only two — Matthew and Luke — mention it, while Mark and John make no reference to it. Pagels points out that the Gospel of Mark, the earliest of the four, does not suggest a virgin birth. Instead, Mark refers to Jesus as “the son of Mary,” a striking anomaly in a patriarchal society where a child’s identity was typically linked to the father. This raises the question of whether Jesus was seen as fatherless by his community, a point that both Matthew and Luke address by introducing their own versions of the nativity story, with each adding a father figure in Joseph. These revisions, Pagels suggests, may have been an attempt to avoid the embarrassment of a questionable paternity. The most provocative element of Pagels' book is her discussion of ancient rumors about Jesus being the son of a Roman soldier named Panthera. While these accounts come from early detractors of Jesus, the name “Panthera” may refer to a real individual, a Roman soldier stationed in Palestine during the first century. Pagels acknowledges the uncertainty of this claim but argues that there is enough circumstantial evidence to warrant consideration. She highlights a grave discovered in 1859 that belonged to a soldier named Tiberius Panthera, which adds some credence to these long-standing rumors. Pagels also addresses the possibility that Mary may have been a victim of rape. She notes the brutal Roman occupation of Galilee during the time of Jesus' birth, where soldiers frequently committed acts of violence and sexual assault against the local population. Pagels suggests that if Panthera was indeed involved in Jesus’ conception, it may have been a case of rape, reflecting the harsh realities of Roman rule at the time. Despite these historical investigations, Pagels does not dismiss the possibility of miracles but invites readers to consider how they are interpreted. She compares the concept of miracles to personal experiences that some might attribute to divine intervention, like a miraculous recovery from illness, while others might simply view them as strokes of luck. “Calling it a miracle interprets an event that others might see differently,” she explains. In the latter part of the conversation, Pagels touches on the broader role of Christianity in modern society. While she may not align with all aspects of conservative Christianity, she acknowledges the profound humanitarian work done by faith-based organizations. Pagels emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating the positive impact of Christian faith, especially in charitable efforts around the world. Reflecting on her own faith journey, Pagels speaks of her transition from an evangelical Christian to a scholar who questions the literal truth of certain biblical stories. Yet, despite her intellectual skepticism, she continues to find deep spiritual meaning in the Christian tradition. The experience of encountering Christianity, she says, remains transformative. “The Christian message, as I experienced it, was transformational. It encouraged me to treat other people well and opened up a world of imagination and wonder,” she shares. In conclusion, Pagels calls for a respectful and open dialogue between faith and reason, urging both believers and skeptics to appreciate the rich tapestry of Christian tradition. For her, the virgin birth, like other miracles in the Gospels, can be seen as a story of profound spiritual significance, regardless of its historical accuracy. "Believe that a further shore / is reachable from here. / Believe in miracles,” she quotes, echoing the words of poet Seamus Heaney and encouraging us to embrace the mystery and wonder that faith can offer. Based on a report by NYT 2024-12-23 -
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Former NYPD Chief Jeffrey Maddrey Accused of Years-Long Sexual Misconduct: An "Open Secret"
Allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse by former NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey have ignited a scandal that has shaken the city’s police force. According to police sources and accusers, Maddrey’s predatory behavior was a long-standing “open secret” within the department, casting a shadow over his years of service. The controversy erupted when NYPD Lieutenant Quatisha Epps, 51, formally accused Maddrey, 53, of coercing her into a sexual relationship in exchange for significant overtime benefits. The allegations, detailed in a complaint filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), suggest a pattern of exploitation that dates back to Maddrey’s promotion to chief of department in June 2023. In her complaint, Epps claimed Maddrey exploited her vulnerability as a survivor of incest, using her personal history to manipulate and control her. “I think he’s a predator,” Epps stated. “He’d say, ‘We’re going to save your house,’ like you’re supporting me when you’re really just f—ing me.” Epps, who recently made headlines as the NYPD’s top earner with a staggering $400,000 salary—more than half of which came from overtime—alleged Maddrey demanded unwanted sexual favors in exchange for these lucrative opportunities. The demands, she claimed, were relentless and abusive. “I kept asking him, ‘Can you please stop?’ Then I stopped asking him to stop,” Epps said. “‘Can you please just slow down? You’re hurting me! You’re hurting me!’” Maddrey’s alleged misconduct extended beyond Epps. At least two other women in the department have come forward with accusations against him. A police source familiar with the situation described Maddrey as a predator, stating, “It’s an open secret. Everyone knows who he is.” The complaint also alleges Maddrey forced Epps to perform humiliating tasks, including managing his personal relationships with other women on the force. Epps claimed Maddrey ordered her to keep two of his mistresses from discovering each other, adding another layer of degradation to her experience. Epps worked closely with Maddrey throughout his career as he ascended from chief of housing to chief of patrol and finally to chief of department, overseeing the NYPD’s 36,000-member force. However, she alleged the sexual demands began only after his promotion to the department’s highest-ranking uniformed position. Attorney Eric Sanders, who represents Epps, filed the EEOC complaint as a precursor to a lawsuit against the city. The document outlines a timeline of abuse that underscores the power dynamics at play, highlighting how Maddrey allegedly leveraged his authority to exploit subordinates for personal gain. As the NYPD and city officials contend with these explosive allegations, the case raises critical questions about accountability and oversight within one of the world’s largest police forces. For now, the voices of Epps and other accusers are bringing to light what they say was a culture of silence and complicity, with one source summing it up: “Everyone knew, but no one did anything.” Based on a report by NYP 2024-12-23 -
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Biden Confirms Attendance at Trump’s Inauguration, Emphasizes Democratic Values
President Joe Biden has confirmed he will attend the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump next month, reaffirming his commitment to upholding democratic traditions. Speaking with MeidasTouch host Ben Meiselas on Thursday, Biden said, “Of course I am. The only president I avoided the inauguration of is the guy about to be inaugurated.” The announcement follows a statement from the White House last month that both Biden and First Lady Jill Biden would honor their pledge to attend the inauguration of the election's victor. "The president promised that he would attend the inauguration of whomever won the election. He and the first lady are going to honor that promise and attend the inauguration," White House senior deputy press secretary Andrew Bates reiterated. This gesture contrasts sharply with the precedent set in 2021 when Trump declined to attend Biden’s inauguration. At the time, Trump faced significant backlash for his role in the events surrounding the January 6 Capitol riot. Bates emphasized the importance of Biden’s decision to attend, framing it as a commitment to democracy. "Biden views attending the inauguration as an important demonstration of commitment to our democratic values and to honoring the will of the people as we continue to provide an orderly and effective transition," Bates explained. Biden has frequently highlighted the importance of a peaceful transfer of power as a cornerstone of American democracy. Last month, he met with Trump to discuss the forthcoming transition, with both leaders pledging a smooth and orderly handover. The upcoming inauguration marks a rare moment in modern American politics where a sitting president attends the inauguration of a former rival returning to office. This act, Biden believes, underscores the resilience of democratic norms despite partisan divides. Based on a report by The Hill 2024-12-23
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