Month: December 2023

White House Asserts No Pardon for Hunter Biden Despite New Charges

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In a recent reaffirmation, the White House has steadfastly maintained President Biden’s position of not granting a pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, in the face of his ongoing legal proceedings. This declaration comes amid the surfacing of new tax crime charges against the younger Biden.

Quick Facts

  • New Legal Challenges for Hunter Biden: Recently, Hunter Biden has been indicted with three felony tax charges related to tax evasion and filing a false return, in addition to six misdemeanor charges for failure to pay taxes between 2016 and 2019.
  • White House’s Firm Stance: The White House, through press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, has reiterated President Biden’s firm commitment not to pardon his son, emphasizing that the president’s position remains unchanged despite these new allegations.
  • Ongoing Investigations: Apart from the current charges, Hunter Biden is also under investigation for alleged tax misconduct following a disintegrated plea deal earlier this year, adding complexity to his legal situation.

The recent developments in Hunter Biden’s legal affairs have prompted the White House to restate President Biden’s decision against pardoning his son. This scenario has unfolded against the backdrop of Hunter facing both felony and misdemeanor charges, marking his second indictment by special counsel David Weiss. The White House’s response, particularly from press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, underscores the administration’s unwavering stance on this matter, despite the evolving legal challenges.

Hunter Biden’s legal troubles, involving a range of serious charges, have put him at the center of a contentious political and legal debate. The situation is further complicated by ongoing investigations into his tax affairs, as well as discussions around the transparency of the legal proceedings. The unfolding events paint a complex picture of the challenges faced by the president’s son, entangled in legal issues that have drawn national attention.

The recent indictment brings to light various aspects of Hunter Biden’s legal situation, involving both the nature of the charges and the responses from the White House and other political figures. This scenario has significant implications, not just for Hunter Biden, but also for the Biden administration, as it navigates the complexities of these legal battles amidst the broader political landscape.

For Further Reading In the context of Hunter Biden’s legal situation, the concept of “Pardons in the United States” becomes highly relevant. A presidential pardon in the United States is a legal instrument that allows the President to forgive a person for a federal crime, thereby absolving them of the legal consequences. This power, outlined in Article II, Section 2, Clause 1 of the U.S. Constitution, has been a topic of significant debate and interest, especially in cases involving high-profile individuals. The use of this power can have far-reaching implications, both legally and politically. For more information, visit the Wikipedia article on Pardons in the United States.

Q&A

What charges is Hunter Biden currently facing?

Hunter Biden is currently facing three felony tax charges related to tax evasion and filing a false return, and six misdemeanor charges for failure to pay taxes between 2016 and 2019.

Has President Biden indicated any intention to pardon his son?

No, President Biden, through the White House’s statements, has consistently maintained that he has no intention of pardoning his son Hunter Biden amid these legal challenges.

What are the potential consequences if Hunter Biden is convicted?

If convicted, Hunter Biden faces up to 17 years in prison, combining the sentences for the felony and misdemeanor charges.

Original Article Source: The Hill

Biden Administration’s Firm Stance on Hunter Biden’s Legal Case

In a significant development, the White House has firmly reiterated President Joe Biden’s decision not to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, in case of a conviction. This stance remains unchanged despite new tax crime charges against Hunter Biden, signaling the administration’s commitment to legal principles over familial bonds.

Notable Quotes

“Nothing has changed,” – Karine Jean-Pierre, White House Press Secretary. This statement was made during a press conference aboard Air Force One, emphasizing the unchanged stance of President Biden amidst new charges against his son.

“He loves his son and supports him as he continues to rebuild his life,” – Karine Jean-Pierre. This quote reflects the personal support of President Biden for his son, Hunter, in the face of ongoing legal challenges, highlighting the balance between parental support and legal integrity.

The quotes from White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre underscore the Biden Administration’s position on Hunter Biden’s legal troubles. Despite being a close family matter, the White House maintains a clear distinction between personal support and legal proceedings, adhering to the principle of law.

Further Developments in Hunter Biden’s Legal Challenges

The recent developments in the legal battles of Hunter Biden have continued to garner significant attention. With new tax crime charges brought against him in California, President Joe Biden has reaffirmed his stance that he will not pardon his son if he is convicted. This scenario has added complexity to the already intricate legal situation surrounding Hunter Biden.

Who’s Involved

  • President Joe Biden
  • Hunter Biden
  • Karine Jean-Pierre

President Joe Biden: As the 46th President of the United States, Joe Biden has been in the spotlight for his policy decisions and his family matters, including the legal issues of his son, Hunter Biden. His presidency has seen various challenges, including the current situation with his son’s legal battles.

Hunter Biden: The son of President Joe Biden, Hunter has been in the public eye for various reasons, including his business dealings and personal struggles. Recently, he has been facing legal challenges, including tax crime charges, which have led to a public debate on the role of family members in political spheres.

Karine Jean-Pierre: As the White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre has been managing communications regarding Hunter Biden’s legal issues. Her role involves addressing the media and public queries about the stance of the White House on these matters.

What is Next
  1. Scenario 1: Further legal developments could unfold, potentially leading to a trial or settlement regarding Hunter Biden’s charges.
  2. Scenario 2: Political ramifications could be seen, affecting President Biden’s administration and public opinion.
  3. Scenario 3: Hunter Biden could engage in a more public defense, potentially leading to new revelations or insights into the case.

Remembering Ryan O’Neal: A Tribute to the Iconic Actor and Heartthrob

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Ryan O’Neal, renowned for his roles in “Love Story” and “Peyton Place,” passed away at the age of 82. His career spanned several decades, earning him a place as a prominent figure in Hollywood and a heartthrob for many.

Quick Facts

  • Main Career Highlights: O’Neal was celebrated for his performances in “What’s Up, Doc?”, “Paper Moon”, and “Love Story”, for which he received an Oscar nomination.
  • Personal Life: His life was marked by his long-term relationship with actress Farrah Fawcett and connections with other prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
  • Legacy: O’Neal is remembered as a significant cultural icon of his era, influencing both film and popular culture. His works continue to resonate with audiences.

Ryan O’Neal’s acting career left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Known for his versatile acting skills, O’Neal starred in various genres, ranging from romantic dramas to comedies. His role in “Love Story” is particularly noted for its impact on the romantic drama genre, making him a household name and solidifying his status as a leading man in Hollywood.

Aside from his professional accomplishments, O’Neal’s personal life also garnered significant public interest. His relationship with Farrah Fawcett was one of the most talked-about aspects of his life. The couple’s on-and-off relationship, marked by both passion and turbulence, remained in the public eye, adding to his persona as a romantic figure.

O’Neal’s contribution to the film industry goes beyond his roles in front of the camera. He influenced the direction of Hollywood cinema in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming a symbol of the era’s cultural and aesthetic values. His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy in film and popular culture will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.

For Further Reading “Love Story” – A 1970 romantic drama film that became a significant part of American cinema. It starred Ryan O’Neal and Ali MacGraw, telling a poignant story of love and loss. The film is known for its famous line, “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.” [Wikipedia]

Q&A Section

What was Ryan O’Neal’s most famous role?
Ryan O’Neal is best remembered for his role in the 1970 film “Love Story,” where he played Oliver Barrett IV, a character that became synonymous with his career.

How did Ryan O’Neal impact Hollywood?
O’Neal left a lasting impact on Hollywood through his diverse roles in various film genres, becoming an icon of the 1970s and 1980s cinema and contributing significantly to the era’s cultural narrative.

Original article: TMZ

Reflecting on the Life and Legacy of Ryan O’Neal

Renowned actor Ryan O’Neal, famous for his roles in “Love Story” and “Peyton Place,” has passed away at the age of 82. O’Neal’s career spanned several decades, marked by memorable performances and a significant impact on Hollywood and its audiences.

Who’s involved

  • Ryan O’Neal
  • Farrah Fawcett
  • Tatum O’Neal

Ryan O’Neal’s journey in the film industry was marked by iconic roles and significant contributions to Hollywood. Born on April 20, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, O’Neal began his career in the early 1960s. His breakthrough role in “Love Story” in 1970 catapulted him to fame, earning him an Academy Award nomination. Over the years, he starred in various films, showcasing his versatile acting skills. His last few years were shadowed by health issues, including a battle with leukemia and prostate cancer.

Farrah Fawcett, an American actress and model, was known for her role in the television series “Charlie’s Angels.” Born on February 2, 1947, in Corpus Christi, Texas, she rose to international fame in the 1970s. Fawcett was in a long-term relationship with Ryan O’Neal from 1979 until 1997 and then again from 2001 until her death in 2009. She battled cancer in her later years and became an advocate for cancer prevention and research.

Tatum O’Neal, daughter of Ryan O’Neal, made her film debut in “Paper Moon” alongside her father, winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at age 10, making her the youngest winner in history. Born on November 5, 1963, Tatum had a tumultuous relationship with her father, marked by periods of estrangement and reconciliation. Her career includes roles in various films and television shows, along with several memoirs detailing her life experiences.

What is Next
  • Continued Recognition: Ryan O’Neal’s work in film and television will likely continue to be celebrated, with possible tributes and retrospectives of his most iconic roles.
  • Legacy Preservation: Efforts may be made to preserve and honor the legacy of Ryan O’Neal, including potential biographies or documentaries detailing his life and career.
  • Family Memoirs: Further insights into Ryan O’Neal’s life could emerge from memoirs or interviews by family members, providing a deeper understanding of his personal and professional journey.

Ukraine’s Leadership Challenges Amid Fluctuating U.S. Support

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In a significant development, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky is encountering mounting challenges both domestically and internationally. The recent hesitation in U.S. support and a stalled military counteroffensive mark a pivotal moment in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict.

Quick Facts

  • U.S. Aid Stalled: The U.S. Senate’s delay in providing aid to Ukraine signifies a notable shift in international support dynamics.
  • Domestic Criticism: President Zelensky faces increasing criticism within Ukraine, highlighting the growing internal pressures amid the conflict.
  • Military Counteroffensive Halted: The pause in Ukraine’s military counteroffensive against adversarial forces raises concerns about its strategic position.

The recent developments in Ukraine underscore a critical juncture in its ongoing conflict. The U.S. Senate’s hesitance to provide additional aid represents a potential shift in the international community’s approach to the Ukrainian situation. This reluctance could be attributed to various geopolitical factors and domestic considerations within the United States. The delay in aid has raised concerns about the sustained international support that Ukraine has been relying on.

Internally, President Zelensky is facing a wave of criticism from various quarters within Ukraine. This criticism stems from the handling of the conflict, economic challenges, and governance issues. These internal pressures are compounded by the external challenges, making the situation increasingly complex for the Ukrainian leadership. The growing discontent among the population could have significant implications for the country’s political stability and future policy directions.

The halt in Ukraine’s military counteroffensive is another critical aspect of the current scenario. This pause could be due to strategic recalibrations, resource constraints, or other operational considerations. The halt has implications for the conflict’s trajectory and could influence future military and diplomatic strategies. Ukraine’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in determining the conflict’s outcome and the country’s future.

For Further ReadingGeopolitical Dynamics of the Ukrainian Conflict: The conflict in Ukraine is a complex interplay of regional power struggles, international diplomacy, and strategic interests. It involves multiple stakeholders, each with their own agendas and perspectives. Understanding these dynamics is key to comprehending the broader implications of the conflict. Read more on Wikipedia.

Q&A Section

What does the U.S. aid delay mean for Ukraine?
The delay in U.S. aid to Ukraine could signify a shift in international support and may impact Ukraine’s military and economic capabilities in the ongoing conflict.

How is internal criticism affecting President Zelensky?
Increased internal criticism challenges President Zelensky’s leadership and governance, potentially impacting his administration’s stability and future policy decisions.

What are the implications of the halted Ukrainian counteroffensive?
The pause in the military counteroffensive could lead to strategic and operational changes in Ukraine’s approach to the conflict, affecting its future course and resolution.

Original article: Ukraine’s Zelensky appears increasingly embattled as U.S. backing wavers.

Continued Tensions in Ukraine: Zelensky’s Growing Challenges

In recent developments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faces increasing internal and external pressures. The U.S. Senate’s blocking of aid and a halted counteroffensive have intensified his challenges, signaling a shift in both international support and domestic confidence.

Who’s Involved

  • Volodymyr Zelensky
  • U.S. Senate
  • Ukrainian Military

Volodymyr Zelensky: Ukraine’s president since 2019, Zelensky, a former comedian and actor, transitioned into politics with a promise to end the conflict in Eastern Ukraine. His tenure has been marked by significant challenges, including the ongoing war with pro-Russian separatists and the current standoff with Russia. Recently, his leadership has been under scrutiny due to internal political pressures and the wavering support from international allies, notably the United States.

U.S. Senate: The U.S. Senate, a critical component of American legislative power, plays a significant role in foreign policy, including military aid and international relations. The recent decision to block aid to Ukraine marks a crucial moment in U.S.-Ukraine relations, reflecting the complex dynamics of American domestic politics and its impact on foreign policy. This decision has far-reaching implications for the support and aid that Ukraine has relied on amid its ongoing conflict.

Ukrainian Military: The Ukrainian Military, engaged in a prolonged conflict with Russian-backed separatists, has faced numerous challenges in securing its borders and maintaining territorial integrity. The recent halt in their counteroffensive against separatist forces raises questions about their current capabilities and strategies. This development is a significant factor in the broader context of Ukraine’s security and political landscape.

What is NextPotential escalation of conflict in Eastern Ukraine if military aid is not resumed. Possible shift in Ukraine’s foreign policy towards other international allies for support. Increased internal political pressures leading to significant changes in Ukraine’s government.

Media Veteran Jeff Zucker Eyes New Role as British Media Magnate

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In a surprising career shift, former CNN boss Jeff Zucker is now leading a bid to acquire and globally expand U.K.’s esteemed publications, the Telegraph and the Spectator, aiming to transform them into digital powerhouses.

Quick Facts

  • Zucker’s Investment Strategy: Spearheading an investment group, Zucker has emerged as the prime candidate to purchase two historic British media outlets, the Telegraph and the Spectator, with plans to digitalize and internationalize them.
  • Global Expansion Plans: Drawing inspiration from the New York Times’s digital success, Zucker intends to turn the Telegraph into a global brand with enhanced digital and multimedia capabilities, including a dedicated U.S. reporting team.
  • Editorial Independence Concerns: Amidst scrutiny over foreign investment, particularly from Abu Dhabi, the U.K. government has launched an investigation to ensure the deal doesn’t compromise media competition and the publications’ editorial integrity.

Zucker, a renowned figure in American television, is venturing into new territory with his latest endeavor. His vision is to reshape the Telegraph into a worldwide digital brand. This strategy includes the establishment of a U.S.-based team of journalists to cover American and global news, thereby expanding the Telegraph’s reach and influence. The move is consistent with the trend of British publications building a significant presence in the U.S., a market that has already seen the successful expansion of other British titles like the Daily Mail and the Guardian.

Zucker’s career pivot to a British media mogul at 58 is seen as an unexpected turn. His past roles as a TV executive and Hollywood figure have predominantly shaped his professional narrative. However, his expertise in broadcast journalism is expected to play a crucial role in expanding the Telegraph’s video and audio offerings. This move is in line with the global digital footprint strategy that many prominent publications are now adopting. Zucker’s approach is also expected to leverage multimedia capabilities to attract a broader audience and compete in the evolving digital media landscape.

Concerns have been raised regarding the potential influence of foreign ownership on these iconic British publications. The U.K. government’s probe into the deal reflects these apprehensions, focusing on the implications for media competition and editorial independence. Zucker’s leadership will be under scrutiny, especially considering the international dynamics and capital involved in the acquisition. This situation highlights the delicate balance between business expansion and maintaining journalistic integrity in the media industry.

For Further Reading

Digital Media Expansion: The transformation of traditional print media to digital platforms has become a critical aspect of modern journalism. This transition involves not only changing the medium of delivery but also adapting content and business models to suit digital consumption patterns. Major publications worldwide are focusing on digital expansion to broaden their reach and stay relevant in the ever-evolving media landscape. For more details, visit Wikipedia – Digital Media.

Q&A

What is the significance of Jeff Zucker’s move to acquire the Telegraph and Spectator?
Zucker’s bid to acquire these publications represents a significant shift in media dynamics, indicating the growing importance of digital and global presence in the industry. It also showcases the trend of media convergence, where leaders from different sectors of the industry venture into new territories to capitalize on evolving market opportunities.

How will the U.K. government’s investigation impact the acquisition?
The government’s scrutiny is likely to ensure that the deal does not compromise the editorial independence of the publications and maintains healthy media competition. This could lead to certain regulatory measures or conditions being imposed on the acquisition process.

Original article source: The Wall Street Journal

Further Insights into Jeff Zucker’s Strategic Media Endeavors

Jeff Zucker, the seasoned media executive and former CNN boss, is now steering towards a new challenge in the British media landscape. His vision focuses on acquiring and transforming the Telegraph and the Spectator into globally recognized digital news platforms, leveraging his extensive experience in American television and media.

Who’s Involved

  • Jeff Zucker
  • Tina Brown
  • Rupert Murdoch

Jeff Zucker has been a prominent figure in American media, with a career spanning over three decades. Beginning his journey at NBC, Zucker quickly rose to executive positions, significantly influencing the network’s programming. At CNN, he was known for steering the network through a period of growth, particularly during the Trump presidency. Zucker’s approach often blended entertainment with news, a strategy that saw varying levels of success and criticism. His departure from CNN, following a personal controversy, marked the end of an era. His current venture into acquiring British media entities signals a strategic pivot, aiming to infuse his experience into the evolving digital news landscape.

Tina Brown, a journalist and former editor of Vanity Fair and The New Yorker, has been a transformative force in the media industry. Known for her sharp editorial skills and ability to rejuvenate publications, Brown has always had an eye for compelling storytelling and innovation. Her journey through the ranks of notable publications has been marked by significant revamps and introductions of new content styles. Brown’s insights and endorsement of Zucker’s digital strategy for the Telegraph highlight her belief in the potential of digital journalism and its impact on traditional media formats.

Rupert Murdoch, a media mogul and the chairman emeritus of News Corp, has been a defining figure in global media. His influence stretches across continents, shaping the news and entertainment industry through various outlets including newspapers, television, and digital platforms. Murdoch’s empire has been known for its conservative slant, significantly impacting media discourse and political landscapes. His interest in acquiring entities like the Telegraph and the Spectator indicates his ongoing influence and the competitive nature of media acquisitions, especially in the digital age.

What is Next
  • Jeff Zucker successfully rebrands the Telegraph and the Spectator, establishing them as leading voices in global digital journalism.
  • The UK government imposes restrictions on the deal, citing concerns over foreign influence and journalistic independence.
  • Rupert Murdoch or other media magnates counter Zucker’s bid, leading to a significant shift in the ownership and strategic direction of these historic publications.

Television Visionary Norman Lear Passes at Age 101

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Norman Lear, an iconic television producer and writer, passed away at 101. Renowned for revolutionizing sitcoms with shows like ‘All in the Family’ and ‘Sanford and Son’, Lear’s career spanned over half a century, blending humor with social commentary.

Quick Facts

  • Career Span: Norman Lear’s influential career extended beyond 50 years, significantly shaping modern television comedy.
  • Pioneering Sitcoms: He is best known for his 1970s sitcoms, particularly ‘All in the Family’ and ‘Sanford and Son’, which addressed topical and controversial issues.
  • Legacy: Lear’s shows not only achieved high ratings and critical acclaim but also set new standards for American television, earning him numerous Emmy awards.

Norman Lear, born in New Haven, Connecticut, initially served as a pilot in World War II, flying 52 combat missions. His journey into the entertainment industry began as a comedy writer, with his first major break involving selling a comedy routine to Danny Thomas. Lear quickly rose to prominence in the television industry, working as a writer and director on various TV variety shows. In 1958, he co-founded Tandem Productions, under which he produced his legendary 1970s sitcoms.

Lear’s entry into television coincided with a period when networks, especially CBS, sought to revamp their image. During the 1960s, mainstream television largely avoided the era’s controversial issues, focusing on homespun shows like ‘The Beverly Hillbillies’ and ‘Green Acres’. Lear’s shows, on the other hand, embraced these issues, offering a blend of humor and social commentary that appealed to a more progressive audience. This shift in content also aligned with the network’s strategy to target affluent, younger, metropolitan viewers.

Lear’s influence extended beyond his sitcoms. He was also known for his work in defending constitutional civil liberties, founding ‘People for the American Way’ in 1981. Lear remained active in both the entertainment industry and social activism until his passing, leaving a legacy that reshaped American television and cultural discourse.

For Further Reading “Sitcoms in American Culture”: Sitcoms have played a crucial role in American culture, reflecting and shaping societal attitudes and norms. They often address critical social issues through humor and satire, making them a unique and influential part of television history. Read more on Wikipedia.

Q&A

What were Norman Lear’s most influential works?

Lear’s most influential works include ‘All in the Family’, ‘Sanford and Son’, ‘Maude’, ‘The Jeffersons’, and ‘Good Times’, among others.

How did Norman Lear impact American television?

Lear revolutionized American television by introducing sitcoms that addressed social issues, blending humor with critical commentary, thus changing the landscape of TV entertainment.

What legacy does Norman Lear leave behind?

Lear leaves a legacy of groundbreaking television that not only entertained but also sparked conversations about important societal issues, earning him numerous accolades and a lasting impact on American culture.

Original Article: Norman Lear, Television Pioneer, Dies at 101 – DNyuz

Serial Shooter Targets Homeless in Las Vegas, Echoes LA Crimes

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In a harrowing series of events, five homeless individuals were shot in Las Vegas, with one confirmed fatality. This incident coincides with the Los Angeles Police Department’s search for a serial killer responsible for similar attacks.

Quick Facts

  • Las Vegas Attack: A single assailant targeted homeless people in northern Las Vegas, causing one death and several injuries.
  • Link to Los Angeles: These shootings parallel recent murders in Los Angeles, where a serial killer has been attacking the homeless.
  • Community Alert: Authorities in both cities have issued warnings to the homeless population, urging caution and vigilance in light of these attacks.

The Las Vegas shooting occurred near a highway overpass, where a gunman opened fire on a group of homeless individuals around 5:30 pm. While initial reports mentioned two fatalities, it has been confirmed that one person died and another remains critically injured. The other three victims have non-life-threatening injuries. This violent act has alarmed both the local community and law enforcement agencies.

The Las Vegas Police Department (LVPD) is investigating the incident, which they currently believe to be isolated. However, the method of attack and the targeting of homeless individuals bear striking resemblance to the recent murders in Los Angeles, where a serial killer is believed to be at large. The LA Police Department (LAPD) has intensified its manhunt following these attacks, releasing CCTV images of a suspect and a dark-colored sedan linked to the murders.

The similarity between the incidents in Las Vegas and Los Angeles has raised concerns about a potential pattern targeting vulnerable homeless populations. In response, both cities have heightened security measures and community outreach efforts to protect homeless individuals. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate and seek information from the public to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further violence.

For Further Reading Homelessness in America: Homelessness represents a significant social issue in the United States, encompassing various challenges like lack of shelter, health care, and safety. The causes are multifaceted, including economic hardship, lack of affordable housing, and mental health issues. Addressing homelessness involves a combination of government policies, community initiatives, and support services. Read more on Wikipedia

Q&A

What are the ongoing efforts to protect homeless individuals in these cities?

Authorities in Las Vegas and Los Angeles have increased patrols in areas with significant homeless populations. Outreach programs are actively informing and assisting individuals, while shelters and services are being expanded.

How can the public assist in these investigations?

The public is encouraged to report any relevant information or suspicious activities. In Los Angeles, people can contact the LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division with any leads related to the serial killings.

Original article source: The Mirror US