Tuesday, February 27, 2024

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 Georgia Driver Hit with $1.4 Million Fine for Speeding at 90 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone

A Georgia resident faced an astonishing $1.4 million ticket last month after being pulled over for speeding on a freeway. Connor Cato was driving through Savannah on September 2 when he was caught going 90 miles per hour in a 55-mile-per-hour zone by the Georgia State Patrol.

Anticipating a 'super speeder' ticket due to exceeding the speed limit by 35 miles, Cato was surprised by the excessively high fine, far beyond the usual $1,000 maximum. Suspecting a mistake, he contacted the court, only to be informed that he must either pay the astronomical amount or appear in court on December 21 at 1:30 pm.

According to Cato, the court representative stated, '"$1.4 million," the lady told me on the phone. I said, "This might be a typo," and she said, "No, sir, you either pay the amount on the ticket or you come to court on December 21 at 1.30 pm."'

Later, Cato discovered that the exorbitant $1.4 million fine was merely a placeholder generated by e-citation software used by the local Recorder’s Court for 'super speeders.' The actual fine would be determined by a judge during Cato's mandatory court appearance.

Joshua Peacock, a spokesperson for Savannah’s city government, clarified that the intention was not to intimidate individuals into court. He explained, 'The programmers who designed the software used the largest number possible because super speeder tickets are a mandatory court appearance and do not have a fine amount attached to them when issued by police.'

Although the city has employed this system since 2017, they acknowledge the need to adjust the placeholder language to prevent confusion. Criminal defense attorney Sneh Patel expressed astonishment at the initial fine, stating that he had never encountered such a high amount for a misdemeanor traffic violation.

In Georgia, misdemeanor traffic violation fines cannot exceed $1,000, along with state-mandated costs. Patel emphasized that even for a misdemeanor of high and aggravated nature, the fine would typically be $5,000. He added that bond amounts exceeding $5,000 are usually reserved for more serious offenses, such as drug trafficking, murder, aggravated assault, or for individuals expected to evade their upcoming court date.

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According to the probable cause affidavit initially obtained by NBC DFW and reviewed by PEOPLE, Chad Christopher Stevens, 42, was accused of tampering with evidence and fabricating evidence by disposing of the dead body of his ex-girlfriend Heather Louise Schwab.

Georgia Driver Hit with $1.4 Million Fine for Speeding at 90 MPH in a 55 MPH Zone

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Alleged Shoplifter Ignites Confrontation by Setting Store Clerk Ablaze 

A store employee, who made an attempt to thwart a man's third theft within a single day, found himself set ablaze during the encounter. Surveillance footage captured the disturbing moment when the assailant doused the worker with lighter fluid and ignited him.

The victim, identified only as Suraj for safety concerns, suffered second and third-degree burns on his face, neck, chest, and shoulder as a result of the attack. Speaking from his hospital bed, Suraj expressed the trauma he and his family are currently enduring.

"It's terrible. You know, I'm still in trauma right now, me, my family," he shared, highlighting the excruciating pain he endures during wound cleaning, describing it as "like over 10."

Having been a clerk at Appian Food and Liquor in El Sobrante for approximately five years, Suraj revealed that while dealing with shoplifters is not uncommon, an incident of this magnitude had never occurred before. On that fateful day, he and a coworker confronted a repeat offender who had stolen lighter fluid on multiple occasions. Suraj attempted to intervene, while his colleague grabbed a bat for protection.

"He just splashed lighter fluid on my face, and I was so scared at that moment," recounted Suraj. "I tried to cover his hand, but I don't know. I don't remember. He just lit the fire on me, you know. I just rushed to the restroom, and I just splashed water on my face."

The Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office apprehended the suspect, 38-year-old Kendall Burton, a homeless individual in El Sobrante. Burton faces charges including assault with a deadly weapon, battery, arson, and robbery, and is being held without bail.

Expressing the need for increased safety measures, Suraj emphasized, "First of all, I would like to say nobody has to go through this kind of situation, and the small stores should have more security or something like that. The workplace should be safer."

Suraj, anticipating several surgeries and a prolonged recovery, is supported by his wife, Sabeena Parajuli, who initiated an online fundraiser to alleviate the burden of medical bills. He shared that his family is deeply affected, noting, "They cry all the time when they come here."


In Other SMH America News

Travis Kelce's ex-girlfriend Maya Benberry has branded the NFL player a 'narcissist and a cheater' - while revealing that she has been getting death threats from Taylor Swift's 'angry fans' after choosing to speak out about their budding romance.

Alleged Shoplifter Ignites Confrontation by Setting Store Clerk Ablaze

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Saturday, February 24, 2024

Florida House Approves Bill Restricting Social Media Access for Individuals Under 16 

The Florida House of Representatives has approved a bill that aims to prevent individuals under the age of 16 from holding accounts on certain social media platforms. The legislation, known as House Bill 1 or Online Protections for Minors, received a vote of 108-7 and will now be sent to Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, for potential approval.

If signed into law, HB1 will mandate certain social media platforms to verify the age of account holders. Additionally, it will prohibit individuals under 16 from creating new accounts and require the termination of accounts suspected to belong to underage users. The Senate had already passed the bill with a vote of 23-14 earlier on the same day.

Governor DeSantis, known for his stance on parental involvement, expressed his views on the matter during a press conference. He acknowledged the potential harm of excessive social media use but emphasized the importance of parental supervision. DeSantis is actively working to incorporate a role for parents in deciding whether their children should have access to social media, suggesting that parents should have the option to opt in if they want their kids on these platforms.

The bill broadly defines the social media platforms subject to its provisions. It encompasses companies where at least 10% of daily active users under 16 spend a minimum of two hours per day on the platform, and those utilizing algorithms, push alerts, continuous scrolling, or auto-play videos.

The legislation, introduced on January 5, faces an uncertain future, echoing the challenges seen in other states. A federal judge recently temporarily blocked a similar Ohio law, deeming it likely unconstitutional. The Ohio law aimed to regulate children's access to social media platforms, requiring parental consent for accounts created for those under 16. This legal setback underscores the complex landscape surrounding attempts to regulate social media for young individuals amid concerns about its impact on mental health.


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Nicholas' death was entirely– excruciatingly – needless and avoidable. We will get justice for him, the other children and their families.” Authorities discovered a trap floor and drugs hidden in the Bronx day care center where a 1-year-old boy died of a suspected fentanyl overdose, the NYPD said.

Florida House Approves Bill Restricting Social Media Access for Individuals Under 16

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Friday, December 22, 2023

 Report Reveals Kansas Agency Investigated Family of Girl 5 Times Before Her Tragic Death

Child welfare authorities investigated the family of a 5-year-old Kansas girl, Zoey Felix, five times in the 13 months preceding her tragic rape and murder, as detailed in a report released on Tuesday. Despite allegations of neglect and drug use by her mother, authorities were unable to confirm these claims, and the family consistently declined to offer assistance.

5-year-old Kansas girl Raped and Killed at Homeless Campsite

The State Department of Children and Families report revealed that, in one instance, the agency verified the mother's failure to properly supervise Zoey but placed the girl with her father, deeming no safety concerns. Subsequent allegations in late August regarding drug use and lack of utilities in the home resulted in seven unsuccessful attempts by child welfare officials to contact the family over the next month.

Tragically, Zoey died on Oct. 2 at a gas station where fire crews were unable to resuscitate her. Neighbors believe Zoey and her father had been camping in a grove of trees on a nearby vacant lot. Mickel Cherry, a 25-year-old homeless man, faces charges of first-degree murder, rape, and capital murder in connection with Zoey's death. The circumstances of Zoey's demise have not been disclosed by authorities.

Governor Laura Kelly expressed her dismay at Zoey Felix's "unacceptable tragedy" and announced plans to advocate for legislation expediting information release in cases of child abuse or neglect-related deaths. The current practice involves delayed summaries from the Department of Children and Families, with full case reports released after the completion of prosecution, often taking over a year.

An information vacuum in Zoey's case persisted as a judge sealed the arrest affidavit supporting criminal charges against Cherry, citing concerns about jeopardizing witness safety and potential evidence destruction.

Neighbors had previously reported concerns about Zoey's well-being, describing her as wandering the neighborhood in a distressed state. The summary from the Department of Children and Families indicated that the first tip about Zoey was received on Sept. 8, 2022, alleging poor home conditions and possible drug use in the presence of a child. Although the mother tested negative for drugs, the agency offered help, which the family declined.

The summary further detailed incidents, including an unsupervised child complaint in November 2002, an arrest of Zoey's mother for driving under the influence with Zoey in the car, and subsequent investigations that led to offers of help being declined by the family. Despite repeated attempts to contact the family in September after a complaint about drug use and lack of utilities, authorities were unsuccessful. Concurrently, police visits to the home did not locate Zoey, as her father claimed she wasn't living there.

Following Zoey's tragic death, the Department for Children and Families has pledged to launch a thorough investigation, opening another inquiry in response to the circumstances surrounding Zoey's demise.


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Laura Barajas of San Jose, Calif., lost her limbs after eating contaminated fish. Vibrio vulnificus is commonly called a “flesh-eating bacteria” as it can cause necrotizing fasciitis, according to the CDC, which is “a severe infection in which the flesh around an open wound dies.”

Report Reveals Kansas Agency Investigated Family of Girl 5 Times Before Her Tragic Death

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Thursday, December 21, 2023

FBI Discovers 40 Human Skulls and Spinal Cords Used as 'Decorations' in Kentucky Home Raid 

On Tuesday, a Kentucky resident named James Nott was taken into custody following an FBI operation that uncovered numerous human remains and skulls repurposed as macabre decorations throughout his residence, authorities disclosed.

40 Human Skulls, Spinal Cords, and More Found Inside Kentucky Man's Home

The investigation into James Nott, a 40-year-old from Mt. Washington, Kentucky, was initiated by the FBI in connection with a probe into firearms and the trafficking of human remains. Upon approaching Nott's home on Tuesday, law enforcement officials inquired about other occupants, to which he disturbingly responded, "Only my dead friends."

Reports from WDRB revealed that the FBI found approximately 40 human skulls, spinal cords, femurs, and hip bones within Nott's residence. Shockingly, the skulls were utilized as ornamental pieces around his furniture and home, with one even adorned with a head scarf and another discovered in Nott's bed.

Aside from the human remains, authorities recovered an AK-47 rifle, a .38 revolver, and ammunition from Nott's residence. Additionally, WLKY, a local news outlet, reported the discovery of black powder primers, electric blasting caps, a detonation cord, and inert grenade components. The FBI disclosed that Nott had advertised the sale of remains on his public Facebook page the previous month. Investigations further revealed Nott's prior communication with an individual in Pennsylvania who possessed human organs and had affiliations with others engaged in selling human remains.

Among those connected to this network was Cecil Lodge, a morgue manager associated with the Harvard Medical School Anatomical Gift Program. Lodge, too, was reportedly exploiting Facebook for the illicit trade of stolen remains. The FBI's awareness of Lodge stemmed from information provided by a Pennsylvania man, who divulged details about a network involved in the sale and transportation of human remains.

James Nott appeared before the Western District of Kentucky on Tuesday for his initial hearing and underwent a detention hearing on Wednesday. Presently, the sole charge stemming from this investigation is possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, which could lead to a maximum sentence of 10 years if Nott is convicted. The case is under joint investigation by the FBI and the Mt. Washington Police Department.


In Other SMH America News

A Florida mother killed her two children and then herself in an apparent murder-suicide after losing a child custody battle with her ex.

FBI Discovers 40 Human Skulls and Spinal Cords Used as 'Decorations' in Kentucky Home Raid

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Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Masked Teens Board School Bus, Attempt to Shoot 14-Year-Old Boy's Head, and Assault Him After Gun Malfunctions 

Three masked teenagers boarded a Maryland school bus on Monday afternoon, singling out a 14-year-old boy who was the sole remaining student on the bus, according to WJLA.

3 Maryland Teens Jump On School Bus And Tried To Kill Student; Despite Shooting 3 Times, Gun Failed

One of the masked individuals pointed a gun at the boy and attempted to fire three times. Remarkably, the gun failed to discharge on all three attempts, and the police later discovered three live rounds on the Prince George's County bus.

Martin Diggs, the head of the bus drivers' union, characterized the incident as a blatant attempted murder, stating, "They pulled the trigger three times, but for some reason, by the grace of God, the gun didn't go off and bullets flew out of the gun."

The attack occurred late Monday afternoon on a school bus transporting students from the Prince George's County Alternative Middle School in Suitland. Multiple sources have confirmed that the bus's onboard video system recorded the entire attack, including a close-range attempt to shoot the middle school student in the head. When the gun failed to fire after three attempts, the assailants physically assaulted the 14-year-old boy. Once the attackers fled, the bus driver moved the vehicle to a secure location.

"We are outraged as a district. Horrified that this incident did occur," expressed Charoscar Coleman, Associate Superintendent of Prince George's County Public Schools. Coleman urged students, faculty, families, and staff to remain vigilant and report any brewing problems, emphasizing the priority of maintaining a safe environment for students during school hours and transportation.

The head of the drivers' union called for increased security measures, stating that the driver and aide feared for their lives. The Prince George's County Police Department is actively seeking the attackers. WJLA has requested the school bus video, but release has been denied at this time. The extent of the 14-year-old victim's injuries has not been disclosed.


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Over the phone, Jarret told FOX 11 News he was a victim of entrapment. When asked why he sent sexual messages to a 14-year-old girl, Jarret said she was the one sending the explicit messages. He added that he planned to meet the girl in person to tell her to stop texting and "let her off easy."

Masked Teens Board School Bus, Attempt to Shoot 14-Year-Old Boy's Head, and Assault Him After Gun Malfunctions

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Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Prisoner Creates Tunnel Through Wall, Allegedly Stabs Inmate in Adjacent Cell, According to Prison Authorities 

In Fulton County, Georgia, a prisoner took extreme measures to target a fellow inmate in a neighboring cell, as reported by law enforcement officials. Kavian Thomas, an inmate at Rice Street jail, reportedly created a hole in a shower stall wall on May 17, allowing him access to an adjacent cell block. Subsequently, Thomas carried out an assault on Derondney Russell, stabbing him multiple times, according to a press release from the Fulton County Sheriff's Office on Thursday.

Inmate Digs Through His Cell Room Wall to Stab Another Inmate In Neighboring Cell

Russell suffered "superficial stab wounds to his upper body" and received medical treatment within the jail's medical unit for his injuries. Following the attack, authorities conducted a thorough inspection of both cells, revealing the presence of several weapons, some of which were fashioned "from parts of the dilapidated building infrastructure," as mentioned in the press release.

Interim Fulton County Jail commander Curtis Clark emphasized the challenges posed by the deteriorating condition of the facility, stating, "This jail has outlived its useful life." Clark highlighted the difficulty in ensuring a secure environment for both staff and inmates due to the aging infrastructure.

The sheriff's office indicated that Kavian Thomas would face additional criminal charges related to the assault. Thomas had previously been charged with offenses such as theft of stolen property, possession/transport of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of marijuana, according to court records.


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A Nevada rapper was arrested on murder charges after implicating himself in a music video by sharing details of the crime that only a killer could have known, police said.

Prisoner Creates Tunnel Through Wall, Allegedly Stabs Inmate in Adjacent Cell, According to Prison Authorities

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 Teenager, 15, Faces Murder and Terrorism Charges in Connection with Oxford High School Shooting

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald has announced charges in connection with the tragic events at Oxford High School on Tuesday.

Fifteen-year-old Ethan Crumbley is facing severe charges, including one count of terrorism causing death, four counts of first-degree murder, seven counts of assault with intent to murder, and 12 counts of possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony. McDonald emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be brought based on the evolving findings.

15-Year-Old School Shooting Suspect Charged as an Adult with Terrorism First-Degree Murder

Crumbley is being charged as an adult, and during his arraignment on Wednesday, he stood mute, with a not-guilty plea entered on his behalf. Bond was denied, and he was ordered to be transferred from Children's Village to the Oakland County Jail. If convicted on all charges, Crumbley could face life in prison.

McDonald revealed that evidence suggests this was not an impulsive act, leading to the inclusion of a terrorism charge in connection with the school shooting. The prosecutor also mentioned that charges against both parents are under consideration.

The tragic incident claimed the lives of Tate Myre, 16, Hana St. Juliana, 14, and Madisyn Baldwin, 17, with 17-year-old Justin Shilling succumbing to his injuries on Wednesday afternoon. The shooter, a 15-year-old sophomore, reportedly used a 9mm pistol during the attack in the south end of the school.

Students recounted hearing an ALICE warning over the intercom following the initial gunshots. ALICE, an acronym for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate, is a training program designed for schools. Law enforcement responded swiftly to the incident, with the suspected shooter apprehended while still possessing seven rounds of ammunition. Over 30 shell casings were later recovered by the police.

Seven other victims sustained injuries, with varying conditions. Notably, a 14-year-old female is in critical condition with gunshot wounds to the chest and neck, undergoing surgery, and is currently on a ventilator. Another 17-year-old female is also in critical condition. Other victims range from serious to stable conditions.

The Oxford Community Schools District released a statement expressing profound grief over the loss of lives and injuries. The district emphasized the priority of student and staff safety and participation in the ongoing investigation. The focus remains on providing care and support to the affected individuals, while the district urges respect for the privacy of grieving families.


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A New Mexico family rushing to try and save their dog’s life was stopped and held at gunpoint by the cops. KRQE Investigates obtained the police videos from a traffic stop that still has a family in disbelief.

Teenager, 15, Faces Murder and Terrorism Charges in Connection with Oxford High School Shooting

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