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Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

UK judge’s decision not to jail boys for rape like a ‘rock straight in my face’, says victim, 16

UK judge’s decision not to jail boys for rape like a ‘rock straight in my face’, says victim, 16

Summary

Two 15-year-old boys in the UK were not sent to prison after being found guilty of raping two girls in separate attacks. Instead, they received youth rehabilitation orders with supervision, and these sentences are now being reviewed by the attorney general.

Key Facts

  • The rapes happened in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, on November 26, 2024, and January 17, 2025.
  • The boys involved were 15 years old at the time of sentencing.
  • The judge gave youth rehabilitation orders instead of jail time, focusing on rehabilitation and preventing reoffending.
  • The attacks were filmed, and the videos were shared, causing further harm to the victims.
  • One boy was diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety; another had a very low IQ and ADHD; a third boy involved had mild cognitive impairment.
  • The judge cited the defendants' age and peer pressure as reasons for avoiding prison sentences.
  • The families of the victims and the public expressed shock and concern about the sentences being too lenient.
  • The attorney general’s office is reviewing the sentences due to public and official requests under the "unduly lenient" sentence review process.
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Woman abused by babysitter as a child says compensation can't fix injustice done by police

Woman abused by babysitter as a child says compensation can't fix injustice done by police

Summary

Michaela Allen, who was abused as a child by her babysitter, said money cannot fix the mistakes made by police when they lost important evidence. The police lost a video showing her describing the abuse, which stopped the case from going to court, though she has been given compensation.

Key Facts

  • Michaela Allen was abused at age seven by her babysitter.
  • Police never charged the accused man because they lost key video evidence.
  • The lost video was found years later but was mistakenly mailed to Michaela herself.
  • Michaela received £32,000 in compensation from South Wales Police and Gwent Police.
  • Two other alleged victims received about £10,000 each in joint payments.
  • The abuse happened in Caerphilly, and police responsibility changed from South Wales to Gwent Police due to boundary changes.
  • The Crown Prosecution Service said the suspect could not have a fair trial after the evidence mix-up.
  • Michaela says there is still a risk because the alleged abuser has not been charged.
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City's living costs drive workers to food banks

City's living costs drive workers to food banks

Summary

Workers at the University of Cambridge are striking for extra pay because the high cost of living in the city makes it hard for low-paid employees to afford basic needs. Many workers, including some with jobs, use food banks to support their families.

Key Facts

  • The cost of housing in Cambridge is very high, causing financial problems for workers with low wages.
  • Hundreds of University of Cambridge staff are on strike seeking a pay supplement called "Cambridge weighting."
  • A comparable supplement exists at Oxford University, where staff receive around £1,730 extra per year.
  • A Unite union member reported spending over half his salary on rent and breaking even each month with no savings.
  • Cambridge City Foodbank helps many families, including those with working members who still struggle financially.
  • The University of Cambridge offers a 2.5% pay supplement for low-paid staff, increased starting salaries for research assistants, and more paid family leave.
  • The university says it is open to discussions with the union to resolve the pay dispute.
  • The strike includes picketing at locations like The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge.
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Girl raped by boys spared jail tells BBC judge's decision was like 'rock in my face'

Girl raped by boys spared jail tells BBC judge's decision was like 'rock in my face'

Summary

Two teenage boys, aged 15 and 14, were convicted of raping two girls but were given youth rehabilitation orders instead of jail time. A 16-year-old victim and her family expressed their disappointment and said the sentence felt unfair, while the attorney general will review the decision.

Key Facts

  • The victim was 15 when she was raped by two boys in an underpass near the River Avon in Hampshire.
  • The boys were also convicted of attacking a second victim in a separate incident.
  • The assaults were recorded on the boys’ phones and some footage was shared online.
  • Judge Nicholas Rowland emphasized the seriousness of the crimes but avoided jail sentences because the boys were young.
  • The 15-year-olds received youth rehabilitation orders with supervision instead of prison sentences.
  • The 14-year-old involved received a shorter youth rehabilitation order.
  • The victim’s family says the sentences are too lenient and wants the boys jailed.
  • The attorney general has 28 days to decide if the sentences should be reviewed by the Court of Appeal.
  • A government spokesperson said the case is shocking and the law offices are reviewing it carefully.
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Why Kouri Richins jurors decided Utah mom was a killer

Why Kouri Richins jurors decided Utah mom was a killer

Summary

In February 2026, Kouri Richins stood trial in Utah for the murder of her husband, Eric Richins, who died in 2022 from a lethal dose of fentanyl. Prosecutors said she poisoned him for money, while evidence like a 911 call and bodycam footage raised doubts about her effort to save him.

Key Facts

  • Eric Richins died on March 4, 2022, from a fentanyl overdose.
  • Prosecutors accused Kouri Richins of poisoning Eric to gain his money.
  • Eric owned a successful contracting business; Kouri worked in real estate.
  • Kouri faced charges of murder, insurance fraud, and forgery.
  • Kouri made a 911 call saying her husband was not breathing.
  • Forensic analysis showed Kouri did not put the phone on speaker during the call, suggesting limited CPR effort.
  • Jurors questioned Kouri’s attempt to save Eric, comparing her words with the evidence.
  • Bodycam footage of a deputy showed Kouri's unusual behavior after Eric’s death.
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Ted Cruz, Trump ally battle online over criticism of Iran deal

Ted Cruz, Trump ally battle online over criticism of Iran deal

Summary

Senator Ted Cruz expressed serious worries about a new deal the United States might make with Iran. He criticized some people in President Trump's team who support the deal, and this caused a public argument online with one of President Trump's advisors.

Key Facts

  • Senator Ted Cruz is worried about a possible new agreement between the U.S. and Iran.
  • Cruz said he is "deeply concerned" about the deal's terms.
  • The deal is being promoted by some people within President Trump's administration.
  • Cruz and a Trump adviser debated about the deal on social media.
  • The disagreement happened publicly online, showing tensions within the administration and its allies over the Iran deal.
  • Cruz represents Texas and is a Republican senator.
  • The issue highlights differing opinions even among those who support President Trump.
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Trump news at a glance: Does the president see a chance to end the war with Iran?

Trump news at a glance: Does the president see a chance to end the war with Iran?

Summary

President Donald Trump said a deal with Iran is almost finalized to end the conflict between the two countries. However, there is disagreement about the status of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, with Iran saying it will remain under its control. Meanwhile, Pakistan hopes to host new peace talks between the US and Iran soon.

Key Facts

  • President Trump stated that a peace agreement with Iran and other countries is close to being finalized.
  • The Strait of Hormuz, an important oil shipping route, is a major point of disagreement in the deal.
  • Iran’s Fars news agency said the Strait will stay under Iranian control and doubted the deal is near completion.
  • Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Trump and hopes to host another round of US-Iran talks soon.
  • US Vice President JD Vance led earlier peace talks in Islamabad six weeks ago, but no agreement was reached then.
  • A person fired shots near the White House and died, causing a temporary lockdown of the area.
  • The US temporarily banned green-card holders who recently traveled to certain African countries to prevent Ebola spread.
  • The US Justice Department removed news releases about January 6 Capitol attack defendants, calling them biased.
  • Rodney Taylor, a double amputee detained by ICE, was released and is now active in public events supporting his family.
  • California declared a state of emergency due to a chemical storage threat in Orange County.
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Gunman killed by Secret Service after shooting near White House

Gunman killed by Secret Service after shooting near White House

Summary

A man opened fire near the White House on May 23, 2026, and was shot dead by US Secret Service agents. President Donald Trump was inside the White House during the shooting and was unharmed, although one bystander was injured.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened just after 6 pm near the White House security perimeter.
  • The gunman pulled a weapon from his bag and started firing.
  • Secret Service police returned fire and shot the suspect, who later died in the hospital.
  • One bystander was hit by gunfire; no Secret Service officers were hurt.
  • President Trump was inside the White House and was not harmed.
  • The area was secured by police, Secret Service, and National Guard troops.
  • The incident comes after previous assassination attempts against President Trump.
  • President Trump has increased White House security with a large new ballroom that includes security features like a drone-proof design and an underground hospital.
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Passengers from high Ebola risk countries can enter Atlanta, Houston and D.C. airports

Passengers from high Ebola risk countries can enter Atlanta, Houston and D.C. airports

Summary

Passengers coming from countries in Africa with a high risk of Ebola can enter the United States through three airports: Atlanta, Houston, and Washington D.C. The U.S. government has increased the number of African countries classified as high Ebola risk from three to ten.

Key Facts

  • The number of African countries considered high risk for Ebola has increased from three to ten.
  • Travelers from these high-risk countries must enter the U.S. through designated airports.
  • The three approved U.S. entry airports are in Atlanta, Houston, and Washington D.C.
  • This entry restriction helps officials monitor and respond to Ebola risks.
  • The rule applies to Americans returning from these high-risk countries.
  • The measure aims to protect public health by controlling the spread of Ebola.
  • Officials are following global health updates to adjust risk assessments.
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Trump says he is close to an Iran deal and reopening Strait of Hormuz, but Iran disagrees

Trump says he is close to an Iran deal and reopening Strait of Hormuz, but Iran disagrees

Summary

President Donald Trump said he is close to making a deal with Iran to end their conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for oil shipments. However, Iran has denied that such an agreement is near.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced he is close to an agreement with Iran.
  • The deal would aim to end the conflict between the U.S. and Iran.
  • Part of the deal would involve reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is an important route for global oil transport.
  • Iran disagreed with President Trump’s statement, saying no agreement is close.
  • The conflict between the U.S. and Iran has affected relations and oil markets.
  • CBS News is reporting on this ongoing situation.
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Tank leaking hazardous chemicals in Southern California brings risk of explosion

Tank leaking hazardous chemicals in Southern California brings risk of explosion

Summary

A tank holding dangerous chemicals at an aerospace facility in Southern California is leaking and may explode. Over 50,000 people have been evacuated, and the governor has declared a state of emergency.

Key Facts

  • The leaking tank contains a highly hazardous chemical.
  • The incident happened at an aerospace facility in Southern California.
  • More than 50,000 people were evacuated nearby.
  • There is a risk the tank could explode.
  • The governor declared a state of emergency to respond to the crisis.
  • Emergency teams are handling the situation to prevent further harm.
  • The news was reported by CBS News and correspondent Lana Zak.
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Spurred on by the painful death of her dad, Natalie Cassidy trains as a carer

Spurred on by the painful death of her dad, Natalie Cassidy trains as a carer

Summary

Natalie Cassidy, known for acting in EastEnders, is training to become a carer after caring for her dying father. She is studying health and social care to understand the challenges facing the care system in the UK, which struggles with staff shortages, low pay, and an ageing population.

Key Facts

  • Natalie Cassidy returned to education to study health and social care for the first time since age 16.
  • She was inspired to train as a carer after caring for her father during his final days.
  • Cassidy’s course covers topics like autism, first aid, and dementia, with practical placements in care settings.
  • The UK care sector is facing financial problems, staff shortages, and difficulties recruiting due to immigration changes.
  • Many unpaid carers provide extensive care, with nearly a third giving 50+ hours of help per week.
  • Over 600 unpaid carers told the BBC they feel stressed or overwhelmed by their responsibilities.
  • Care workers and volunteers play a critical role in supporting the social care system.
  • Cassidy’s experience highlights the personal and emotional challenges of caring for loved ones.
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Shootout at White House Checkpoint as Secret Service Kills Gunman

Shootout at White House Checkpoint as Secret Service Kills Gunman

Summary

The U.S. Secret Service shot a gunman near the White House after reports of gunfire on Saturday. Both the gunman and a bystander were critically injured, and the area was locked down while security teams responded. President Donald Trump was inside the White House during the incident.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, close to the White House.
  • The Secret Service shot the gunman following reports of gunfire.
  • A bystander was also hit and both are in critical condition.
  • The White House went into lockdown, and journalists were moved to safety.
  • President Donald Trump was inside the White House at the time.
  • The FBI is helping investigate the situation.
  • Authorities are still trying to understand what exactly happened.
  • Multiple gunshots were heard near the White House.
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California governor declares state of emergency over looming chemical disaster

California governor declares state of emergency over looming chemical disaster

Summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in Orange County because of a chemical tank that is at risk of leaking or exploding. Emergency teams are working to cool the tank and find ways to stop a disaster, while about 40,000 people have been ordered to evacuate.

Key Facts

  • The state of emergency was announced due to a chemical tank holding methyl methacrylate in Garden Grove, Orange County.
  • The tank contains 6,000 to 7,000 gallons of a flammable chemical used in making plastics and resins.
  • The tank is off-gassing and heating up, raising concerns it may explode or leak.
  • Firefighters have been cooling the tank with water, but it is still getting hotter.
  • An emergency team added a neutralizing agent to a nearby tank to lower explosion risk.
  • Temperatures inside the tank rose to 90°F, increasing about one degree per hour.
  • About 40,000 residents have been told to evacuate the area.
  • Officials are preparing ways to contain a possible spill and are seeking new ideas to prevent the disaster.
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Secret Service shoots person near White House, bystander also shot, law enforcement official says

Secret Service shoots person near White House, bystander also shot, law enforcement official says

Summary

The U.S. Secret Service shot a person near the White House, and a bystander was also injured. Both were in critical condition, and shots were heard by White House journalists who took shelter inside.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, one block from the White House.
  • The Secret Service confirmed reports of shots fired and is investigating the incident.
  • A bystander was also shot and had serious injuries.
  • President Donald Trump was inside the White House during the shooting.
  • Journalists inside the White House heard multiple gunshots and were told to seek shelter.
  • FBI Director Kash Patel said officers were responding to the shooting and would provide updates.
  • The area was blocked off by police and Secret Service following the incident.
  • This event occurred near the location of a previous attack on National Guard members last year.
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WATCH:  Wedding ring recovered after Simi Valley fire

WATCH: Wedding ring recovered after Simi Valley fire

Summary

Randy and Beth Boyle recovered a wedding ring with help from the Los Angeles Fire Department after their home was destroyed by the Simi Valley fire. The ring was found despite the damage caused by the fire.

Key Facts

  • The fire occurred in Simi Valley.
  • The Boyles’ home was burned down in the fire.
  • The Los Angeles Fire Department assisted in finding the wedding ring.
  • A wedding ring was recovered after the fire.
  • The event took place in May 2026.
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WATCH:  Celebrating Fleet Week at Disneyland

WATCH: Celebrating Fleet Week at Disneyland

Summary

Disneyland Resort celebrated Memorial Day weekend by hosting more than 100 members of the U.S. Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard during Fleet Week. The event honors military service members and takes place at the popular theme park.

Key Facts

  • Disneyland Resort held a special event for Fleet Week at the start of Memorial Day weekend.
  • Over 100 sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen attended the celebration.
  • Fleet Week is a time to recognize and honor U.S. military personnel.
  • The event was part of the Memorial Day weekend activities.
  • Disneyland is located in California and is a well-known theme park.
  • The celebration aimed to show appreciation for those who serve in the U.S. armed forces.
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Extended volley of gunshots heard near White House as agencies respond

Extended volley of gunshots heard near White House as agencies respond

Summary

On Saturday evening, gunfire was heard near the White House in Washington DC. A man fired shots at the building and was shot by Secret Service officers; a civilian was also hit and taken to the hospital.

Key Facts

  • Around 6pm local time, a gunman fired three shots at the White House from outside the west gate.
  • Secret Service officers returned fire and reportedly wounded the gunman, who was taken to a hospital.
  • A civilian on the street was shot during the incident and was also taken to a hospital.
  • Reporters near the White House heard about 20 to 30 shots and took shelter in the press briefing room.
  • FBI and Secret Service responded to the gunfire and are investigating the situation.
  • President Donald Trump was in the Oval Office at the time but did not immediately comment.
  • The shooting is the latest in several security incidents near the White House in recent weeks.
  • A previous incident involved gunfire near a motorcade of a political figure less than three weeks ago.
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Gunfire reported near White House Saturday night

Gunfire reported near White House Saturday night

Summary

Gunshots were reported near the White House on Saturday night, causing reporters on site to take cover after being told to seek shelter by the Secret Service. President Donald Trump was at the White House during the incident, which happened about a month after a gunman attacked a related event.

Key Facts

  • Multiple gunshots were heard near the White House on Saturday night.
  • Reporters on the White House grounds heard the shots and were told by Secret Service agents to take shelter.
  • ABC reporter Selina Wang shared a video capturing the sound of multiple shots and showing TV crews taking cover.
  • The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the incident.
  • President Donald Trump was present at the White House during the shooting.
  • The shooting occurred about four weeks after a gunman attacked the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner.
  • The suspect from the previous attack faces charges of trying to assassinate President Trump.
  • Following the dinner attack, President Trump wanted the event rescheduled within 30 days, but no new date has been announced yet.
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Possible gunshots heard near White House's North Lawn

Possible gunshots heard near White House's North Lawn

Summary

Around 6 p.m. on Saturday, multiple gunshots were heard near the North Lawn of the White House. The U.S. Secret Service and FBI responded to the incident and secured the area while checking the situation.

Key Facts

  • About 20 gunshots were heard near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, close to the White House.
  • The shots seemed to come from near the Eisenhower Executive Office Building side of the White House complex.
  • Secret Service quickly moved media personnel inside for safety.
  • The Secret Service is verifying reports of the shots with staff on the ground.
  • FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the FBI was on site to support the Secret Service.
  • President Donald Trump was at the White House at the time of the incident.
  • This event follows a recent security breach near a White House event about a month ago.
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