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NYC mayor announces plan to reopen ICE operations on Rikers Island

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  • New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced plans to allow ICE officers back on Rikers Island to assist with criminal investigations, particularly targeting violent gangs. The decision follows a closed-door meeting with “border czar” Tom Homan.
  • Adams also emphasized his willingness to work with the Trump administration on the immigration crisis.
  • The announcement came shortly after the Department of Justice asked federal prosecutors to drop corruption charges against Adams. It led to the resignation of Manhattan’s top federal prosecutor and five others.

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New York City Mayor Eric Adams said a plan is underway to help federal immigration authorities operate on Rikers Island. The news follows a closed-door meeting Thursday, Feb. 13, between Adams and “border czar” Tom Homan.

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Adams said the two discussed removing violent migrant gangs from the city. He said he is preparing an executive order that will allow U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to return to Rikers Island.

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ICE officers had been allowed to operate on Rikers Island for 20 years until 2014. That’s when New York’s sanctuary policies ended their authority.

“ICE agents would specifically be focused on assisting the Correctional Intelligence Bureau in their criminal investigations, in particular those focused on violent criminals and gangs,” Adams said in a statement.

Adams also said the two officials discussed embedding more NYPD detectives into federal task forces.

Since President Donald Trump’s election, Adams has shown a willingness to collaborate with his administration to address the immigration crisis.

“Since the spring of 2022, New York City has been forced to shoulder the burden of a national humanitarian crisis where more than 230,000 migrants have come to our city seeking support, at a cost of approximately $7 billion, with little help from the previous administration,” Adams said in his statement. “That is why I have been clear that I want to work with the new federal administration, not war with them, to find common ground and make better the lives of New Yorkers.”

The meeting with Homan and the announcement about ICE agents returning to Rikers Island came just two days after Trump’s Department of Justice asked federal prosecutors in New York to drop corruption charges against Adams.

Manhattan’s top federal prosecutor, Danielle Sassoon, and five other DOJ officials resigned Thursday after refusing to drop the charges.

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NEW YORK CITY MAYOR ERIC ADAMS SAYS A PLAN IS UNDERWAY TO HELP FEDERAL IMMIGRATION AUTHORITIES OPERATE ON RIKERS ISLAND.

THE NEWS COMES AFTER ADAMS MET WITH BORDER CZAR TOM HOMAN BEHIND CLOSED DOORS THURSDAY.

ADAMS SAID THE TWO SPOKE ABOUT REMOVING VIOLENT MIGRANT GANGS FROM THE CITY AND HE’S WORKING ON PREPARING AN EXECUTIVE ORDER THAT WILL ALLOW US IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS BACK ON  RIKERS ISLAND.

ICE OFFICERS WERE ALLOWED TO OPERATE ON RIKERS ISLAND FOR 20 YEARS UNTIL 2014 WHEN SANCTUARY POLICIES ENDED THEIR AUTHORITY.

“ICE AGENTS WOULD SPECIFICALLY BE FOCUSED ON ASSISTING THE CORRECTIONAL INTELLIGENCE BUREAU IN THEIR CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS, IN PARTICULAR THOSE FOCUSED ON VIOLENT CRIMINALS AND GANGS,” ADAMS SAID IN A STATEMENT.

ADAMS SAID THE PAIR ALSO DISCUSSED HOW TO EMBED MORE NYPD DETECTIVES INTO FEDERAL TASK FORCES.

SINCE PRESIDENT TRUMP’S ELECTION, MAYOR ADAMS HAS SHOWN A WILLINGNESS TO WORK WITH HIS ADMINISTRATION TO COMBAT THE IMMIGRATION CRISIS.

“SINCE THE SPRING OF 2022, NEW YORK CITY HAS BEEN FORCED TO SHOULDER THE BURDEN OF A NATIONAL HUMANITARIAN CRISIS WHERE MORE THAN 230,000 MIGRANTS HAVE COME TO OUR CITY SEEKING SUPPORT, AT A COST OF APPROXIMATELY $7 BILLION, WITH LITTLE HELP FROM THE PREVIOUS ADMINISTRATION,” ADAMS SAID IN HIS STATEMENT. “THAT IS WHY I HAVE BEEN CLEAR THAT I WANT TO WORK WITH THE NEW FEDERAL ADMINISTRATION, NOT WAR WITH THEM, TO FIND COMMON GROUND AND MAKE BETTER THE LIVES OF NEW YORKERS.”

THE MEETING WITH HOMAN AND ANNOUNCEMENT OF ICE AGENTS TO RIKERS COMES JUST TWO DAYS AFTER TRUMP’S DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE ASKED FEDERAL PROSECUTORS IN NEW YORK TO DROP CORRUPTION CHARGES AGAINST ADAMS.

MANHATTAN’S TOP FEDERAL PROSECUTOR DANIELLE SASSOON AND FIVE OTHER DOJ OFFICIALS RESIGNED THURSDAY AFTER REFUSING TO DROP THE CHARGES.

One of the founders of search giant Google is worried about artificial intelligence getting into the wrong hands. Getty Images
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Ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt worried about ‘Bin Laden’ AI scenario


  • Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt expressed worries about AI being used by adversaries and rogue states to harm the public, citing potential malicious intent from countries like North Korea, Iran, and Russia.
  • Schmidt made these comments while attending a summit in Paris with representatives from various countries to discuss artificial intelligence. The U.S. and U.K. declined to sign a pledge for more “inclusive” AI.
  • Schmidt advocates for some regulation of AI but believes that private companies will largely shape its future. He previously mentioned the possibility of “unplugging” AI systems if they evolve unchecked.

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One of the founders of search giant Google worries about artificial intelligence getting into the wrong hands. Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt told the BBC’s Radio 4 Today that AI in the hands of an adversary could mean using an aspect of life and turning it against the public.

“I’m always worried about the Osama bin Laden scenario where you have some truly evil person takes over some aspect of our modern life and uses it to harm innocent people,” Schmidt said. 

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Schmidt said “rogue states” could also use AI with malicious intent.

“Think about North Korea, Iran, or even Russia, who have some evil goal,” Schmidt told the host Amil Rojan. “This technology is fast enough for them to adopt that they could misuse it and do real harm.”

Schmidt was in Paris, where U.S. representatives and dozens of other countries convened for a two-day summit on artificial intelligence. The U.S. and U.K. notably declined to sign a pledge for more “inclusive” AI. Vice President J.D. Vance also criticized the measure, saying it would introduce burdensome regulations on a fledgling industry. 

Schmidt took a middle-road approach to AI regulation. He said he thinks some regulation should be in place. However, he also said, “The truth is that AI and the future is largely going to be built by private companies.”

Last December, he told ABC News that we may eventually have to consider “unplugging it all” if AI systems continue to evolve unchecked.

Before leaving office, former President Joe Biden took steps to limit what countries had access to advanced microchips from American companies like Nvidia.

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Macklemore releases song criticizing Trump, Musk and global conflicts

Kennedy Felton Lifestyle Correspondent/Producer
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  • Rapper Macklemore’s new song, “F—ed Up,” targets figures like President Donald Trump and Elon Musk while addressing global political and social issues. Released exclusively on his social media platforms, the song has sparked conversations about U.S. foreign policy, media influence and humanitarian crises.
  • In the first verse, Macklemore criticizes U.S. military aid to Israel, voices support for Palestine, and calls out social media companies for controlling what users see.
  • Macklemore isn’t the only artist using music to address the conflict in the Middle East.

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Rapper Macklemore is making headlines with his new song, “F—ed Up.” The track calls out high-profile figures like President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk while addressing global political and social issues.

The song, released exclusively on Macklemore’s social media platforms, has sparked conversations about U.S. foreign policy, media influence and humanitarian crises in regions like Gaza, Sudan and Congo.

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Macklemore’s critique of US policy and media control

In the first verse, Macklemore criticizes U.S. military aid to Israel and voices support for Palestine. He references Gaza and the West Bank, alleging that U.S. tax dollars contribute to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

“Talkin’ colonizing Gaza from the White House lawn,” he raps. Later in the song, he adds, “Call a ceasefire, then start annexing the West Bank.”

Macklemore claims the U.S. prioritizes power over human lives, criticizing both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also calls out social media companies, alleging they control what users see by “shadow-banning,” or censoring, terms like #FreePalestine.

Elon Musk called out in chorus

Macklemore turns his attention to Musk in the chorus, rapping, “And Elon, we know exactly what that was, bruh.”

The line appears to reference Musk’s controversial arm gesture at Trump’s inauguration celebration. 

Global conflicts in Gaza, Sudan and Congo

The song also highlights humanitarian crises beyond the Middle East. Macklemore references the ongoing violence in Sudan and Congo, as well as the devastation in Gaza.

In Sudan, a civil conflict between military factions has displaced millions. In Congo, decades of violence driven by armed groups fighting over natural resources have left entire communities without access to essential needs.

The music video for “F—ed Up” pairs these messages with footage of bombed-out buildings, protests and civilians demonstrating resilience in war-torn areas. In one scene, Macklemore raps, “They marchin’ home… that’s resilience.”

Other artists weigh in on the Middle East conflict

Macklemore isn’t the only artist using music to address the conflict in the Middle East.

Singer-songwriter Five for Fighting, known for hits like “Superman,” released a song in January 2024 in response to the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks. The track addresses the rise in global antisemitism following the violence.

The artist traveled to Tel Aviv to perform the song “OK” in front of a live crowd.

Proceeds to support Palestinian refugees

While “F—ed Up” has received mixed reactions online, Macklemore says the song is part of a broader humanitarian effort.

He pledged that all proceeds from the track would go to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The agency provides aid to Palestinian refugees, including food, healthcare and education.

The song is currently available only on Macklemore’s social media platforms.

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[KENNEDY FELTON]

A new song from rapper Macklemore is making headlines for calling out high-profile figures like President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, all while shining a spotlight on political and social issues around the globe.

Macklemore’s latest release is a sharp departure from his usual feel-good songs but not unfamiliar territory for the rapper who’s addressed social issues in previous songs. In this release, he expresses support for Palestine, criticizing U.S. military aid to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He also takes aim at Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing what he sees as a system that prioritizes power over human lives.

In the same verse, the rapper also criticizes social media companies, accusing them of manipulating algorithms and suppressing certain content. In the song, he suggests terms like “hashtag Free Palestine” have been shadowbanned to limit visibility.

As the chorus begins, he switches his focus to Elon Musk, saying, “And Elon, we know exactly what that was.” This line references Musk’s controversial arm gesture at Trump’s inauguration event.

Beyond the U.S. and social media, the song also mentions ongoing conflicts in Sudan and Congo, urging freedom for these regions. Sudan has been grappling with a civil conflict between rival military factions, displacing millions and fueling a humanitarian crisis.

In Congo, decades of violence linked to armed groups vying for control of resources have left millions without access to basic necessities. Macklemore’s music video pairs these messages with images of destruction, as well as scenes of resilience from communities impacted by war.

The song has received mixed reviews, with many people thanking Macklemore for his courage to use his platform to highlight ongoing issues, while others say he should stick to his older style of music.

Macklemore isn’t the only artist to use music as a platform for global issues. On the other side of the Middle East conflict, singer-songwriter Five for Fighting released a song last January addressing the October 7th attacks and the rise in global antisemitism. That April, he traveled to Tel Aviv, Israel, to perform the song in front of a crowd of Israeli citizens.

Macklemore’s song is currently only available on his social media pages. Despite the song’s nature, his efforts are rooted in raising awareness and aid. He’s pledged all proceeds from his song to UNRWA, the United Nations agency that supports Palestinian refugees.

U.S.

EPA head promises investigation into handling of $20 billion in taxpayer funds

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  • EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced an investigation into the Biden administration’s handling of $20 billion in taxpayer funds, which were “parked” at a financial institution. Zeldin had pledged to look into the matter during his confirmation hearing.
  • The money was allegedly allocated under the Inflation Reduction Act to eight entities. They include the Climate United Fund, which received over $7 billion.
  • Zeldin criticized the lack of transparency and accountability. He pledged to work with the Inspector General’s Office and the Department of Justice.

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Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin says the Biden administration “parked” $20 billion in taxpayer money at a financial institution. He vowed to investigate the issue after an undercover reporter with Project Veritas, a right-wing organization, captured a Biden administration EPA advisor on camera in December admitting the agency was attempting to disburse the funds as quickly as possible before President Biden left office.

The EPA official described the situation as feeling like “throwing gold bars off the Titanic.”

During his confirmation, Zeldin promised to immediately investigate the matter.

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“The gold bars were tax dollars, and tossing them off the Titanic meant the Biden administration knew they were wasting it,” Zeldin said. “Fortunately, my awesome team at EPA has found the gold bars. Shockingly, roughly $20 billion of your tax dollars were parked at an outside financial institution by the Biden EPA. This scheme was the first of its kind in EPA history, and it was purposefully designed to obligate all of the money in a rush job with reduced oversight.”

Zeldin explained that the $20 billion was awarded under the Inflation Reduction Act to “just eight entities” tasked with distributing the funds with little transparency.

One of the entities, the Climate United Fund, received just over $7 billion. The fund has yet to publicly comment on the funding in question.

“I’m sure you and I now have some of the same questions. How do these organizations decide to allocate funding? How much money have they given out so far and to whom? Are there any former Biden EPA staffers who are now working at these entities?” Zeldin asked.

As of now, Zeldin says there is no reason to suspect the bank did anything wrong. He stated the financial agent agreement with the bank needs to be terminated. Additionally, Zeldin says the funds should be returned, and the EPA must take responsibility for every penny.

“The days of irresponsibly shoveling boatloads of cash to far-left activist groups in the name of environmental justice and climate equity are over,” Zeldin said. “The American public deserves a more transparent and accountable government than what transpired these last four years.”

Zeldin plans to refer the matter to the Inspector General’s Office and work with the Department of Justice.

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THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY ADMINISTRATOR, LEE ZELDIN SAYS $20 BILLION DOLLARS IN TAXPAYER MONEY WAS “PARKED” BY THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION AT A FINANCIAL INSTITUTION.

ZELDON PROMISED TO INVESTIGATE THE MATTER AFTER AN UNDERCOVER ‘PROJECT VERITAS’ REPORTER GOT A PRESIDENT BIDEN EPA BIDEN ADVISOR ADMITTING ON CAMERA IN DECEMBER THAT THE AGENCY WAS ATTEMPTING TO GET RID OF THE MONEY AS FAST AS POSSIBLE BEFORE PRESIDENT TRUMP TOOK OFFICE.

THE BIDEN EPA OFFICIAL SAID IT FELT AS THOUGH THEY WE’RE “THROWING GOLD BARS OFF THE TITANIC.”

ZELDIN SAID DURING HIS CONFIRMATION THAT HE WOULD IMMEDIATELY INVESTIGATE THE MATTER.

“THE GOLD BARS WERE TAX DOLLARS AND TOSSING THEM OFF THE TITANIC MEANT THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION KNEW THEY WERE WASTING IT,” ZELDIN SAID.

“FORTUNATELY, MY AWESOME TEAM AT EPA HAS FOUND THE GOLD BARS. SHOCKINGLY, ROUGHLY $20 BILLION OF YOUR TAX DOLLARS WERE PARKED AT AN OUTSIDE FINANCIAL INSTITUTION BY THE BIDEN EPA. THIS SCHEME WAS THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN EPA HISTORY AND IT WAS PURPOSEFULLY DESIGNED TO OBLIGATE ALL OF THE MONEY IN A RUSH JOB WITH REDUCED OVERSIGHT,” HE ADDED.

ZELDIN SAID THE $20 BILLION WAS AWARDED UNDER THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT TO “JUST EIGHT ENTITIES” WHICH WERE THEN RESPONSIBLE FOR DOLLING OUT THE MONEY WITH LITTLE TRANSPARENCY.

ACCORDING TO ZELDIN, ONE OF THE ENTITIES, THE CLIMATE UNITED FUND, RECEIVED JUST OVER $7 BILLION DOLLARS. THE FUND HAS YET TO PUBLICLY COMMENT ON THE FUNDING IN QUESTION.

“I’M SURE YOU AND I NOW HAVE SOME OF THE SAME QUESTIONS. HOW DO THESE ORGANIZATIONS DECIDE TO ALLOCATE FUNDING? HOW MUCH MONEY HAVE THEY GIVEN OUT SO FAR AND TO WHOM? ARE THERE ANY FORMER BIDEN EPA STAFFERS WHO ARE NOW WORKING AT THESE ENTITIES?”

ZELDIN SAYS AS OF RIGHT NOW, THERE’S NO REASON TO SUSPECT THE BANK DID ANYTHING WRONG. HE SAYS THE FINANCIAL AGENT AGREEMENT WITH THE BANK NEEDS TO BE TERMINATED, THE MONEY NEEDS TO BE RETURNED AND THE EPA NEEDS TO ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR EVERY PENNY.

“THE DAYS OF IRRESPONSIBLY SHOVELING BOATLOADS OF CASH TO FAR-LEFT ACTIVISTS GROUPS IN THE NAME OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE AND CLIMATE EQUITY ARE OVER. THE AMERICAN PUBLIC DESERVES A MORE TRANSPARENT AND ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNMENT THAN WHAT TRANSPIRED THESE LAST FOUR YEARS.”

ZELDIN PLANS TO REFER THE MATTER TO THE INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE AND WORK WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE.

U.S.

FBI stops Indiana school shooting planned for Valentine’s Day

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  • Federal investigators stopped a planned mass shooting at an Indiana high school after a tip led to the arrest of an 18-year-old. The teenager faces felony charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and terrorism.
  • Investigators found images of mass killers and evidence of a planned attack in the student’s room.
  • School officials reported the suspect had a history of mental health issues and attempted to seek help. However, her father reportedly blocked those efforts.

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Federal investigators stopped an alleged mass shooting plan just days before it was set to unfold at an Indiana high school. Authorities said a tip to the Sandy Hook Tip Line exposed the teenager’s plan.

Teen in custody, facing felony charges

The FBI took Trinity Shockley, 18, into custody on Wednesday, Feb. 11, after discovering her room decorated with pictures of individuals responsible for mass killings, according to local news reports. Shockley, a high school student, now faces felony charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and a threat to commit terrorism.

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The investigation into Shockley began after the Sandy Hook Tip Line received a tip detailing the planned attack. The caller revealed Shockley had access to a high-powered rifle and obtained a bulletproof vest. Authorities said the tipster also reported Shockley was infatuated with Nikolas Cruz, the Parkland school shooter who killed 17 people on Valentine’s Day –– the same day Shockley allegedly planned her attack.

Search warrant reveals details of plan

FBI agents, working alongside local police officers, executed a search of Shockley’s home. Agents found a bulletproof vest and ammunition there. They also found notebooks containing entries detailing her mental state and plans to commit the crime.

Further investigation revealed comments Shockley made on social media, stating she had been planning the shooting for a year and had sent pictures of AR-15 magazines to others. Shockley reportedly told investigators while she was interested in the mindset of mass shooters, she claimed she would never become one.

Indiana high school officials informed law enforcement that Shockley had a history of mental health issues and had previously tried to seek help using the school’s resources. However, reports said her father blocked those attempts.

Shockley remains in custody without bond.

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[Lauren Taylor]

FEDERAL INVESTIGATORS PREVENTED A PLANNED MASS SHOOTING DAYS BEFORE IT WAS SET TO OCCUR AT AN INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL. 

AUTHORITIES SAY THE TEENAGER’S ALLEGED PLOT WAS REVEALED BY A TIP. 

THE FBI TOOK 18-YEAR-OLD TRINITY SHOCKLEY INTO CUSTODY ON WEDNESDAY, DISCOVERING HER ROOM DECORATED WITH IMAGES OF INDIVIDUALS WHO CARRIED OUT MASS KILLINGS, ACCORDING TO LOCAL NEWS OUTLETS.

THE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NOW FACES THREE FELONY CHARGES, INCLUDING CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT MURDER AND A THREAT TO COMMIT TERRORISM.

TV STATION, FOX59, SAYS THE INVESTIGATION INTO SHOCKLEY BEGAN AFTER A TIP WAS RECEIVED FROM THE SANDY HOOK REPORT LINE, DETAILING THE PLANNED ATTACK. THE CALLER REVEALED THAT THE SHOOTER HAD ACCESS TO A HIGH-POWERED RIFLE AND HAD OBTAINED A BULLETPROOF VEST.

ACCORDING TO THE FBI, THE TIPSTER ALSO STATED SHOCKLEY, WAS INFACTUATED WITH NIKOLAS CRUZ, THE PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL SHOOTER WHO KILLED 17 PEOPLE AND INJURED DOZENS MORE ON VALENTINE’S DAY. 

SHOCKLEY ALLEGEDLY PLANNED HER ATTACK AND THE SEVENTH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FLORIDA ATTACK. COURT FILINGS OBTAINED BY FOX59 SAY THE TEENAGER HAD AN EMOTIONAL ATTACHMENT TO CRUZ AND WANTED TO PROVE SHE WAS HIS NUMBER ONE FAN. 

FBI AGENTS WORKED WITH LOCAL POLICE OFFICERS TO SEARCH SHOCKLEY’S HOME, FINDING THE VEST THE CALLER DESCRIBED AND AMMUNITION FOR AN AR-15. 

HER NOTEBOOKS WERE ALSO OBTAINED–VARIOUS ENTRIES DESCRIBING HER MENTAL STATUS AND DETAILS OF HOW SHE WOULD COMMIT THE CRIME. 

INDIANA NEWS STATIONS REPORT, THE INVESTIGATION LED TO THE DISCOVERY OF HER COMMENTS TO PEOPLE ON SOCIAL MEDIA, SAYING SHE HAD PLANNED THE SHOOTING FOR A YEAR AND SENT PICTURES OF AR-15 MAGAZINES.

ALTHOUGH SHOCKLEY TOLD INVESTIGATORS SHE WAS INTERESTED IN THE MINDSET OF MASS SHOOTERS, SHE CLAIMED SHE WOULD NEVER BECOME ONE.

HIGH SCHOOL OFFICIALS TOLD LAW ENFORCEMENT SHOCKLEY HAS A HISTORY OF MENTAL PROBLEMS AND PREVIOUSLY TRIED TO GET HELP USING THEIR RESOURCES, BUT ATTEMPTS WERE REPORTEDLY BLOCKED BY HER FATHER.

SHOCKLEY REMAINS IN CUSTODY, BEING HELD WITHOUT BOND. 

FOR STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS, I’M LAUREN TAYLOR.

A Tennessee man is suing his former school for graduating him from high school without first teaching him to read. Getty Images
U.S.

Fed. court sides with Tennessean suing school after graduating illiterate


  • An appellate court sided with a Tennessee man, referred to as “William A.,” who sued his former school district for graduating him without addressing his disability. He’s seeking damages and proper education.
  • Despite having an Individual Education Program, the school district failed to properly diagnose and address William’s disability, resulting in his inability to read upon graduation.
  • William’s parents filed a federal lawsuit, and an appellate court recently ruled in their favor.

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An appellate court on Feb. 3 sided with a Tennessee man suing his former school after graduating him from high school without addressing his disability. Court documents say his grade point average was 3.4 when he graduated amid the court battle.

Referred to as “William A.” in court documents obtained by the Free Press, the plaintiff enrolled at Clarksville-Montgomery County school district northwest of Nashville in 2016 as a fifth grader. The district gave him an Individual Education Program, or IEP, saying he had a “learning disability” and “language impairments,” but did not address the underlying cause of the boy’s learning problem; he has dyslexia.

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“William A. is dyslexic and graduated from high school with a 3.4 grade-point average. Yet even then, he could not read,” the appellate ruling from the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals began.

The complaint states that the district failed to make progress with the student and even saw him regress over time. He did his homework using artificial intelligence and spelling programs. 

“William would first dictate his topic into a document using speech-to-text software. He then would paste the written words into an AI software like ChatGPT,” the appellate ruling said. “Next, the AI software would generate a paper on that topic, which William would paste back into his own document. Finally, William would run that paper through another software program like Grammarly, so that it reflected an appropriate writing style.”

In William’s freshman year, a teacher warned school administrators that “this kid can’t read.”

It wasn’t until William’s junior year that he was properly diagnosed with dyslexia by a private specialist and enrolled in a program. The school district kept the boy on the previously unsuccessful IEP despite the specialist’s urging to add dyslexia treatment.

Later that year, court documents say William’s parents filed a complaint under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA. An administrative law judge ruled that the school had violated William’s right to a “free and appropriate public education” under the IDEA. 

William’s parents later filed a federal lawsuit while the school district tried to reverse the administrative guidance. The court sided with his parents but denied them the right to have William receive dyslexia treatment under the original specialist. 

The appellate court ruled that “William did not receive that education here. Apart from his dyslexia itself, William’s most salient ‘circumstance’ for our purposes was that — with proper instruction — he can learn to read.”

The family is seeking $266,967 in attorney fees and compensation for an appropriate education. The district told the Free Press they don’t comment on pending litigation.

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Kennedy Felton Lifestyle Correspondent/Producer
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Kanye West faces divorce rumors, talent agency fallout and AI controversy

Kennedy Felton Lifestyle Correspondent/Producer
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  • Kanye West, now known as Ye, is facing controversy on multiple fronts, including reports of a potential divorce. West’s representative denied the divorce claims, stating the couple will address their private life directly.
  • An AI-generated video featuring deepfake images of Jewish celebrities responding to West’s antisemitic remarks has sparked backlash, with Scarlett Johansson condemning its use without consent.
  • West is also experiencing professional fallout, as talent agent Daniel McCartney announced that his agency, 33 & West, is no longer representing him due to his “harmful” remarks.

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Kanye West has dominated the entertainment news cycle in recent days. The rapper, now known as Ye, is facing controversy on multiple fronts, from an AI-generated video to reports of a potential divorce and professional setbacks.

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Divorce rumors spark confusion

On Thursday, Feb. 13, The Daily Mail reported that West and his wife, Bianca Censori, are allegedly heading for divorce. According to the report, Censori could receive a $5 million payment following their short-lived marriage, which began in December 2022.

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The couple was last seen together at the 2024 Grammy Awards, where Censori wore a sheer, see-through dress while West opted for a fully covered outfit.

However, a representative for West pushed back against the divorce claims.

“Ye and Bianca are in Los Angeles, about to enjoy Valentine’s Day together. Announcements about their private life will come from them directly, not unsourced rumor[s] in the tabloid press,” said West’s representative, Milo Yiannopoulos, in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.

AI-generated video prompts celebrity backlash

West’s personal life isn’t the only reason he’s in the headlines. An AI-generated video featuring deepfake images of celebrities went viral after it appeared to respond to his recent antisemitic remarks.

The video depicted well-known Jewish celebrities wearing white t-shirts with the Star of David and a raised middle finger with “Kanye” written below. Celebrities featured in the video include Ben Stiller, Drake, Adam Levine, Lenny Kravitz and Scarlett Johansson.

Johansson, who has previously spoken out about the dangers of AI, condemned the video’s use of her likeness without consent.

“I am a Jewish woman who has no tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech of any kind. But I also firmly believe that the potential for hate speech multiplied by AI is a far greater threat than any one person who takes accountability for it,” Johansson said in a statement to CNN. “We must call out the misuse of AI, no matter its messaging, or we risk losing a hold on reality.”

Johansson also criticized the U.S. government, calling its response to AI regulation “paralyzed.”

The deepfake video was created by generative AI artist Guy Bar, who defended his decision to use the celebrities’ images without permission. In an interview with The Jewish Chronicle, Bar explained the urgency behind the project.

“It had to be very, very fast,” he said. “If we took time, it wouldn’t be relevant.”

Talent agency parts ways with West

In the wake of these controversies, West is also dealing with professional fallout.

Daniel McCartney, a talent agent at 33 & West, announced on Instagram that the agency no longer represents West.

“Effective immediately, I’m no longer representing YE (F/K/A Kanye West) due to his harmful and hateful remarks that myself nor 33 & West can stand for,” McCartney wrote.

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[KENNEDY FELTON]

Kanye West, now known as Ye, has dominated the entertainment news cycle over the past few days. In the latest developments, controversies surrounding his marriage and artificial intelligence have emerged.

A Thursday report by The Daily Mail suggests that Ye and his wife, Bianca Censori, are headed for divorce just days after their Grammys red carpet stunt. The report claims the couple has agreed to a $5 million settlement following their short marriage, which began in December 2022. However, a representative for Ye is denying these claims, telling The Hollywood Reporter:

“Ye and Bianca are in Los Angeles, about to enjoy Valentine’s Day together. Announcements about their private life will come from them directly, not unsourced rumors in the tabloid press.” — Milo Yiannopoulos, Representative for Ye and Censori

Just shortly after the story of their rumored divorce was released, Ye took to Instagram for a quick post and delete. In the few minutes the post was still up, it featured a definition of “coercion” that read: “Coercion is the act of forcing someone to do something against their will through threats or intimidation. It can involve physical harm, psychological abuse, extortion, blackmail, or sexual assault.” He captioned the post, “Is this coercion?”

AI VIDEO FEATURING CELEBRITIES CONDEMNING ANTISEMITISM, KANYE WEST DRAWS BACKLASH

This follows Ye’s recent social media posts containing antisemitic and inflammatory remarks, which ultimately led to the deactivation of his X account. In response, a deepfake video featuring AI-generated images of celebrities, including Ben Stiller, Drake, and Scarlett Johansson wearing symbolic T-shirts opposing Kanye and antisemitism went viral. The AI-generated celebrities are seen wearing white T-shirts with a Star of David and a raised middle finger with “Kanye” printed under.

Johansson has not shied away from speaking out about the use of AI in the past, especially after one of Chat GPT’s models released a voice last year that closely resembled hers.

In a statement to CNN, Johansson says in regard to the deepfake video: “I am a Jewish woman who has no tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech of any kind. But I also firmly believe that the potential for hate speech multiplied by AI is a far greater threat than any one person who takes accountability for it. We must call out the misuse of AI, no matter its messaging, or we risk losing a hold on reality.” She further calls out the government and says it has been “paralyzed” when it comes to passing AI regulation.

The AI-generated video was created by a generative AI artist, who defends using the celebrities’ likeness without their permission.

In other Ye news, he has reportedly been dropped from his talent agency following his recent controversial remarks. In an Instagram story this week, Daniel McCartney said: “Effective immediately, I’m no longer representing YE (F/K/A Kanye West) due to his harmful and hateful remarks that myself nor 33 & West can stand for.”

Sports

NHL pumps ‘World Cup of Hockey,’ labor peace as 4 Nations tourney continues


  • The National Hockey League made several announcements during a press conference at the 4 Nations Face-off tournament. Commissioner Gary Bettman believes the league and the players union can coexist for years to come.
  • The league announced a “World Cup of Hockey” tournament to start in 2028 and alternate between Olympic years.
  • The two sides will start negotiations soon on a new collective bargaining agreement between the league and players.

Full Story

It seems that the National Hockey League continues to push all the right buttons regarding its future. On Wednesday, Feb. 12, Canada beat Sweden 4-3 in overtime in the first game of the 4 Nations tournament. The stakes are also high on Thursday as Team USA takes on Finland at 8 p.m. EST in Montreal.

The Americans, along with Canada, are the favorites to win the round-robin tournament, and while 23-year-old Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils wants that trophy, he is also looking to the future.

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“You’re hoping it’s kind of day one for like a new future for USA Hockey. No one’s played in the Olympics, you know, in what, 10 years?” Hughes said. “So, I think this is a fresh start and a lot of new faces, and there’s some high-end players in this tournament that have never played in the Olympics, so with next year coming, I think it’s a really exciting start for us.”

It’s exciting for the NHL, too. On Wednesday, Feb. 12, Commissioner Gary Bettman and Players Union Executive Director Marty Walsh talked about the state of the game, labor peace and the league’s growing salary cap. The mood was good, though the current contract between the league and players union expires after next season.

“I think we are in a good place in terms of our collective bargaining relationship, in terms of our overall relationship,” Bettman said. “So, I remain more than optimistic that while we have some work to do, we’re going to get to where we’re going, and people will not even notice that we’ve done it.”

Also, on Wednesday, Feb.12, the league announced plans to hold a “World Cup of Hockey” tournament between Olympic years starting in February 2028. It will function much like the current 4 Nations tournament, with eight teams of NHL players competing in North America and Europe.

“When you look at hockey right now, you think about the excitement that’s happening. Last week, the commissioner announced the increased salary cap, three years in a row,” Walsh said. “This week we’re doing 4 Nations, we just talked about the World Cup in 2028, we’re talking about the Olympics. There’s a lot of great things happening.”

The league and the players certainly want to keep that momentum going. After the 4 Nations tournament crowns a champion on Feb. 20, the race for the Stanley Cup will resume. The league could also get a boost later this spring as Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin inches closer to Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal-scoring record.

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After a fantastic first game in the 4 Nations tournament last night – Canada beat Sweden 4-3 in an overtime thriller – the National Hockey League, it seems, continues to push all the right buttons regarding the future of the game.

Thursday night the TV rating will shoot higher as Team USA takes the ice in Montreal at 8pm eastern to battle Finland. The Americans, along with Canada, are the favorites to win the round robin tournament and while 23 year old Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils wants that trophy, he is also looking to the future.

“You’re hoping it’s kind of day one for like a new future for USA Hockey like no one’s no one’s played in the Olympics um you know in what 10 years so um I think this is a fresh start and a lot of new faces and there’s some high-end players in this tournament that have never played in the Olympics so with next year coming I think it’s a really exciting start for us.”

Exciting for the NHL too, Wednesday Commissioner Gary Bettman and Players Union Executive Director Marty Walsh talked about the state of the game, labor peace and the league’s growing salary cap. There were smiles all around even though the current contract between the league and players union expires after next season.

“I think we are in a good place in terms of our collective bargaining relationship, in terms of our overall relationship, So I remain more than optimistic that while we have some work to do, we’re going to get to where we’re going, and people will not even notice that we’ve done it.”

And one more big announcement Wednesday, The NHL is planning to hold a ‘World Cup of Hockey’ in between Olympic years starting in 2028. Call it an expanded 4 Nations tournament with 8 teams competing in both North America and Europe.

“When you look at hockey right now, you think about the excitement that’s happening. Last week, the commissioner announced the increased salary cap, three years in a row. This week we’re doing 4 Nations, we just talked about the World Cup in 2028, we’re talking about the Olympics. There’s a lot of great things happening.”

The league and the players want to keep that momentum going. After the 4 Nations tournament crowns a champion on February 20th, the race for the Stanley Cup will resume. The league could also get a boost later this spring as Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin inches closer to Wayne Gretzky’s all time goal scoring record.
For Straight Arrow News, I’m Chris Francis.