Showing posts with label The Youth of Our Nation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Youth of Our Nation. Show all posts

Monday, April 15, 2024

Fatal Stabbing Outside McDonald's: 16-Year-Old Girl Loses Life in Alleged Sweet-and-Sour Sauce Dispute 

A 16-year-old girl has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the fatal stabbing of another 16-year-old female outside a McDonald’s in Washington, D.C. The incident, described by authorities as a dispute over sweet-and-sour sauce, resulted in the death of Naima Liggon from Waldorf, Maryland.

According to Metro Police, they responded to a report of a juvenile with stab wounds early Sunday morning. Liggon succumbed to her injuries at a hospital. The fatal stabbing occurred outside a McDonald’s in the 1900 block of 14th Street, Northwest. Liggon was transported to the hospital in a privately-owned vehicle. The police arrested a 16-year-old female, also from Waldorf, charging her with second-degree murder while armed. The suspect was found in possession of a knife during the arrest.

Detective Brendan Jasper testified at a D.C. Superior Court hearing, stating that the fatal stabbing stemmed from a dispute over sweet-and-sour sauce among three girls outside the restaurant. Liggon and another girl allegedly assaulted the 16-year-old suspect, who, based on surveillance footage, did not initially fight back. As Liggon and the other girl were about to enter a vehicle, the 16-year-old suspect approached Liggon with a 7.5-inch pocketknife, stabbing her in the abdomen and chest.

Prosecutors reported that the suspect was located a block away. The court heard that Liggon and the suspect, part of a group from Oxon Hill, Maryland, had driven to a party in D.C. After the party, they went to the McDonald’s. The suspect’s attorney claimed self-defense, emphasizing the lack of a prior criminal history. D.C. Superior Court Judge Sherri Beatty-Arthur ordered the juvenile suspect to be held until a new hearing on Friday, stating, "At the end of the day, someone is dead over a dispute over sauce."

Naima Liggon's mother, Joy Liggon, called the incident "senseless" and expressed disbelief that a fight over sweet-and-sour sauce could lead to murder. Naima Liggon was a student at Thomas Stone High School in Waldorf, and the school community received a statement from the principal expressing condolences and asking for thoughts and prayers for Liggon’s family and friends.

Fatal Stabbing Outside McDonald's: 16-Year-Old Girl Loses Life in Alleged Sweet-and-Sour Sauce Dispute

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Saturday, April 13, 2024

Scholarship Withdrawn from Honor Student Over Homecoming 'Twerking' Video: Describes Feeling Like Life Was Over 

A Louisiana high school senior, Kaylee Timonet, faced the withdrawal of a scholarship endorsement and removal from her position as student government association president after a video of her dancing at a homecoming after-party surfaced on social media. Despite her 4.2 GPA, the video, showing Timonet dancing behind a friend engaged in twerking, led to severe consequences. The private event at Livingston Parish Country Club on Sept. 30 was filmed by the party's DJ, who later posted the video on social media. Timonet's mother was present at the gathering.

The school's principal, Jason St. Pierre, called Timonet into the front office, where she was shown the video and criticized for her actions. She was allegedly told to feel ashamed and that her conduct did not align with "God's ideals," leaving her distraught and in tears. St. Pierre, during the meeting, withdrew Timonet's application for a scholarship, which is awarded to only two students annually.

Timonet, describing the incident as innocent fun, expressed her mortification, saying, "All I was doing was having innocent fun. I was mortified." Her mother, Rachel Timonet, had a subsequent meeting with the principal and voiced her concerns about being excluded from the initial meeting with her minor daughter. Rachel criticized the perceived unfairness of the punishment, pointing out that other students in the video faced no consequences. She also objected to St. Pierre allegedly discussing her daughter's religious faith in a public school setting.

The community rallied behind Kaylee Timonet, creating T-shirts with slogans like "Let the Girl Dance" and "I stand with Kaylee Timonet." The support, visible across social media, has been crucial in helping Timonet cope with the humiliating incident. Despite the controversy, she appreciates the backing she has received, stating, "Seeing that people were supporting me no matter what and seeing that my accomplishments were still noticed means the world."

Walker, the town where Timonet resides, has a population of approximately 6,100 and is situated about 22 miles from Baton Rouge.

Scholarship Withdrawn from Honor Student Over Homecoming 'Twerking' Video: Describes Feeling Like Life Was Over

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Monday, April 8, 2024

Tragic Christmas Eve: Sister Fatally Shot as Teenage Brothers Engage in Gunfight Over Presents

 Tragedy unfolded on Christmas Eve in Largo as two teenage brothers now face charges following a deadly altercation within their family, as reported by authorities.

Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri revealed that the incident occurred during a Christmas shopping outing with the family. The 14-year-old and 15-year-old brothers engaged in an argument, fueled by jealousy on the part of the older brother over the number of gifts their mother was purchasing for the younger sibling.

Upon leaving the store, the family, including the brothers, their mother, their 23-year-old sister, and her 10-month-old and 6-year-old sons, headed to their grandmother's residence on 22nd Avenue Southwest in Largo. The plan was for the grandmother to care for the children while the sister went to work.

At the grandmother's home, tensions escalated when the 14-year-old brandished a gun, threatening to shoot his brother in the head, as per authorities. Initially, the 15-year-old resisted engaging in a physical altercation, and the boys' uncle intervened to separate them. The 14-year-old left the home briefly, prompting his sister to discourage the conflict, reminding them it was Christmas.

However, a new argument erupted between the 14-year-old and his sister, who was carrying her 10-month-old son in a baby carrier. The situation escalated when the 14-year-old directed derogatory language at his sister and proceeded to shoot her in the chest with a .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun, according to the sheriff's office.

In response to the shooting, the 15-year-old retaliated by firing at his brother, shouting, "You shot my m***** f****** sister." Subsequently, the 15-year-old fled, discarding his firearm in a nearby yard. Authorities apprehended him at a relative's home in Clearwater.

The 14-year-old shot once in the stomach, and underwent surgery after being transported to the hospital, while their sister tragically succumbed to her injuries.

The 14-year-old now faces charges of first-degree murder, child abuse, and being a delinquent in possession of a firearm. Meanwhile, the 15-year-old is charged with attempted first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence. The Pinellas-Pasco State Attorney's Office will assess whether the 14-year-old will be charged as an adult.

Tragic Christmas Eve: Sister Fatally Shot as Teenage Brothers Engage in Gunfight Over Presents

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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.


In Other SMH America News

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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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.


In Other SMH America News

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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Monday, December 18, 2023

Disturbing Footage Captures Police Rescuing Malnourished and Abused Children Confined in Cages in Las Vegas Residence 

A disturbing video has surfaced, revealing the rescue efforts of Las Vegas police as they intervened to save young children allegedly subjected to abuse, starvation, and confinement in cages by their parents.

According to court transcripts obtained by TV station 8NewsNow, one of the older children was brutally beaten to the point where the father, Travis Doss, expressed concerns to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police that the 11-year-old might already be deceased.

Sickening video shows cops rescue starved, beaten kids locked in cages from Las Vegas horror house 

The child reported being forced to share meager food supplies with siblings, going days without eating. A detective involved in the case recalled the child's account, stating that he stole discarded food, arguing that it wasn't theft if the items were from the trash. The child expressed constant hunger, indicating that he had to share a single large fry from McDonald's with all six siblings. The detective revealed that the child claimed to be confined in a cage "all day, every day."

Doss, the father of seven children, has been indicted on 40 charges, including child abuse, according to court records. The distressing bodycam footage from the police shows officers entering a cramped, one-bedroom apartment where they discovered six children aged 2 to 11, left alone with two dogs. Shockingly, two of the children, the 11-year-old boy and his 9-year-old brother, were found crouched inside a padlocked cage typically used for pets.

The 11-year-old exhibited severe injuries, including swollen-shut black eyes, numerous marks, bruises, and emaciation. The child disclosed instances of being beaten with cords, belts, and a pan by his father. Amanda Stamper, the biological mother of the 2-year-old child and stepmother to the others, also faces seven counts of child abuse, as per the indictment.

The LVMPD bodycam footage portrayed a challenging situation, with the children initially refusing to open the door for 15 minutes, following instructions not to admit strangers. After a maintenance worker convinced one of the children to open the door, the police discovered the children in the apartment with dogs.

The video captures the 11-year-old describing how his father had assaulted him inside the cage. Officers can be heard offering reassurance to the children, emphasizing that they are not at fault, and promising to provide assistance. Doss allegedly claimed he had "no choice" when questioned about confining the children in cages.

Contrary to the disturbing circumstances revealed in the footage, Doss, a rapper known as "Trap Montana," showcased a glamorous lifestyle on his Instagram, featuring images of him in exotic cars, mansions, and casinos on the Las Vegas Strip. Posts from September 2020 depicted Doss enjoying a beach day with his children, while another from June 2019 showed him fishing with four of the children and Stamper. Stamper's public defender argued that she was also a victim of Doss' abuse, pointing to her Instagram posts as potential evidence of her vulnerability to serious mistreatment if she had taken any action against Doss.


In Other SMH America News

The way a neighbor in Queens handled a noise complaint against the family that lives on the other side of his fence is now the subject of a lawsuit that alleges racist acts.

Disturbing Footage Captures Police Rescuing Malnourished and Abused Children Confined in Cages in Las Vegas Residence

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Texas Teacher Dismissed After Transforming Middle School Classroom Into Student 'Fight Ring' 

A Texas substitute teacher is facing investigation and immediate termination after allegedly transforming her classroom into a fighting arena, urging students as young as 12 to engage in physical altercations.

Texas Teacher Charged After Turning Classroom Into A Fighting Ring

Natally Garcia, 24, was swiftly dismissed from her position at Kimbrough Middle School in Mesquite on Wednesday, following the incident captured in shocking footage. Desks were arranged in a circular pattern to create a makeshift "fight ring," where 12- and 13-year-old students participated in physical confrontations, resulting in some sustaining injuries.

The Mesquite Independent School District (ISD) stated, "Her actions are appalling and intolerable." The district disclosed that Garcia not only established rules for the fights but also directed a student to keep watch at the door during the incidents.

Video evidence reveals Garcia instructing the class that she does not want the activities documented, threatening to confiscate cell phones if students were recording. At least four students can be seen engaged in fights, with Garcia audibly setting a timer for the bouts.

Beatriz Martinez, whose daughter recorded the incident, expressed her shock, stating, "I was devastated. I was like, I couldn’t watch the full video. I had to stop it multiple times because I didn’t think it was real. I was like, this must be a prank. This is not real."

Martinez revealed that her daughter's class had experienced Garcia's teaching twice before without incident. Although her daughter was pushed to participate in the impromptu fight club, the class concluded before the situation escalated.

Mesquite ISD disclosed that Garcia was hired on March 6 but was promptly fired after the incident, with no eligibility for rehire. The district's investigation revealed that the substitute teacher actively encouraged students to fight, established rules for the brawls, and assigned a student to monitor the classroom door during the altercations. The school district expressed deep concern over the behavior of an individual entrusted with student supervision and pledged to address the distress felt by the families of the affected students.


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Jamaicans do not have guaranteed access to their own beaches due to a colonial-era law that grants the British crown rights to the foreshore, but a grassroots organization called JaBBEM is working to fight for beach access rights.

Texas Teacher Dismissed After Transforming Middle School Classroom Into Student 'Fight Ring'

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