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Lawmaker Calls for Federal Investigation into Nolan Wells' Death

Lawmaker Calls for Federal Investigation into Nolan Wells' Death

Democratic Rep. Lucy McBath and the Congressional Black Caucus are calling for a federal investigation into the death of Nolan Wells, an 18-year-old who disappeared on July 4th and was found dead two days later. The family, supported by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, is seeking answers and accountability, as the cause of death remains undetermined. The caucus has sent a letter to the Department of Justice, urging an investigation into potential civil rights violations.

Congressional Black Caucus Calls for Federal Review of Nolan Wells' Death

Congressional Black Caucus Calls for Federal Review of Nolan Wells' Death

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, activist Rev. Al Sharpton, and Congresswoman Lucy McBath are joining the family of Nolan Wells to demand a federal review of his disappearance and death. The Congressional Black Caucus, led by Chair Yvette D. Clarke, has urged the U.S. Department of Justice to conduct an independent investigation. Nolan Wells disappeared during a July 4th boat trip in Mississippi, and his body was found two days later. An independent autopsy commissioned by the family could not determine the cause or manner of death. The FBI is already assisting local investigators, but the family and their supporters are pushing for a more thorough federal investigation.

Trump Administration Drops Appeal in Case Over Trans Kids' Medical Records

Trump Administration Drops Appeal in Case Over Trans Kids' Medical Records

The Department of Justice has withdrawn its appeal in a case where it sought access to the medical records of transgender children treated at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. The DOJ had issued subpoenas for these records as part of a broader effort to investigate healthcare providers offering gender-affirming care. A lower court had previously quashed the subpoena, citing the DOJ's actions as unprecedented and indicative of ill-intent. The withdrawal of the appeal marks a victory for privacy advocates and the families involved.

Rep. Escobar to Tour La Tuna Facility Amid Privatization Concerns

Rep. Escobar to Tour La Tuna Facility Amid Privatization Concerns

U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar is set to tour the La Tuna Federal Correctional Institution in Anthony, Texas, following announcements of its potential closure and conversion into a privatized prison. Escobar has expressed concerns about the lack of information from the U.S. Department of Justice's Federal Bureau of Prisons regarding the closure. She highlighted the investments made by Congress in the facility and questioned the rationale behind its privatization. Escobar is particularly concerned about the impact on federal workforce employees and the broader implications of privatizing federal prisons.

Former SPLC Official Charged in DOJ's Criminal Case Against Civil Rights Group

Former SPLC Official Charged in DOJ's Criminal Case Against Civil Rights Group

Heidi Beirich, a former official of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), has been charged in a broader criminal case by the Department of Justice. The charges include wire fraud conspiracy, conspiracy to submit false statements to a federally insured bank, and conspiracy to commit concealment money laundering. Beirich, known for her work on political extremism, was named in an indictment related to the SPLC's operations. The case alleges misuse of donated funds, with accusations of money being funneled to individuals associated with extremist groups. Beirich's lawyer claims the charges are politically motivated, and the SPLC has expressed confidence in its legal position.

Trump's DOJ Plans to Treat Communications with Outside Advisors as Privileged, Raising Legal Concerns

Trump's DOJ Plans to Treat Communications with Outside Advisors as Privileged, Raising Legal Concerns

The Department of Justice, under President Trump's administration, has issued a new Office of Legal Counsel memo that expands the scope of executive privilege to include communications with private advisors. This move comes amidst ongoing litigation involving Trump advisor Boris Epshteyn. The memo suggests that executive privilege can cover communications related to presidential decisions, involving the president or his direct advisors, and that are confidential. This represents a shift from previous interpretations and could impact future investigations into Trump and his allies.

Attorney General Todd Blanche Declares $1.776 Billion Compensation Fund Dead Amid Controversy

Attorney General Todd Blanche Declares $1.776 Billion Compensation Fund Dead Amid Controversy

Attorney General Todd Blanche has announced that the controversial $1.776 billion compensation fund, criticized as a 'slush fund,' will not be revived. The fund was initially proposed to compensate individuals allegedly victimized by a 'weaponized' Department of Justice. Despite its withdrawal, Blanche and President Trump express a desire to support these individuals through other means. The fund's demise was a significant point of contention during Blanche's confirmation, with concerns about its potential use to reward January 6 protesters.

Rick Jackson Proposes Economic Revitalization for Georgia's Historic Districts

Rick Jackson Proposes Economic Revitalization for Georgia's Historic Districts

Rick Jackson, the Republican nominee for Georgia governor, has announced a comprehensive economic plan aimed at revitalizing historic business districts across the state, including Atlanta's Sweet Auburn. The 'Legacy Corridor Initiative' seeks to restore historic commercial areas and support minority-owned small businesses. Jackson's plan includes appointing a state coordinator to assist local entrepreneurs with business licensing, financing, and state contract opportunities. The initiative also emphasizes the restoration of historic buildings without displacing current residents and business owners. Jackson's proposal targets six historic neighborhoods, including Sweet Auburn, which has been recognized for its historical significance but faces challenges with vacant and abandoned properties.

White House Seeks DOJ Review of Dismissed Case Against David Hearn

White House Seeks DOJ Review of Dismissed Case Against David Hearn

The White House has requested the Department of Justice (DOJ) to consider reopening a criminal case against David Hearn, a former Olympian accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial's Reflecting Pool. The case was dismissed earlier this month after new evidence suggested the damage was due to a contractor's error rather than vandalism. Despite the dismissal, President Trump and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum have criticized the decision, prompting discussions on potentially recharging Hearn. The DOJ is exploring the possibility of bringing the case as a misdemeanor, which would not require a grand jury.

NM AG Supports Legislation for Legal Action Against DOJ Over Epstein Files

NM AG Supports Legislation for Legal Action Against DOJ Over Epstein Files

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez is backing a legislative proposal that would allow state attorneys general and Epstein survivors to sue the U.S. Department of Justice for withholding or redacting documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. The proposed 'Epstein Transparency Files Act Two', co-sponsored by Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández, aims to address the DOJ's failure to fully comply with the original Epstein Transparency Act. Critics argue that the redactions hide politically sensitive information, while the DOJ cites victim privacy as a reason for withholding unredacted files. Torrez has already filed a lawsuit against the DOJ, claiming that the lack of transparency is hindering the state's investigation into Epstein's activities at Zorro Ranch.

The Latest: Kennedy Center board set to vote on whether to move forward with closure

The Latest: Kennedy Center board set to vote on whether to move forward with closure

The Kennedy Center’s board is expected to meet to consider plans for the performing arts venue’s future after a federal judge blocked an earlier move for a two-year closure that would allow for substantial renovations

DOJ Memo Grants President Trump Authority to Shield Communications

DOJ Memo Grants President Trump Authority to Shield Communications

A new memo from the Department of Justice's Office of Legal Counsel grants President Donald Trump extensive authority to shield his communications with private advisers from Congress. The memo, signed by Attorney General T. Elliot Gaiser, asserts that executive privilege can apply to presidential communications with private advisers if they relate to official decision-making and remain confidential. This broad definition of 'private advisers' includes individuals outside the Executive Branch, such as state officials and members of the public. The memo's release comes amid ongoing scrutiny of President Trump's handling of classified documents and his previous attempts to exert executive privilege during investigations.