By Lorena Guzmán-Díaz
Edited by Elissa D. Hecker
Below, for your browsing convenience, the categories are divided into: Entertainment, Arts, Sports, Technology/Media, and General News.
Entertainment
Sean Combs Is Denied Bail on Sex Trafficking and Racketeering Charges
Sean Combs, also known as Diddy, was denied bail after pleading not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution. He was described as leading a criminal enterprise involving coercion of women into drug-fueled orgies and other illegal activities. Prosecutors argued that he posed a danger to the community and should remain detained. The indictment includes allegations of abuse and manipulation of women, mirrored in accusations made by his former girlfriend. His lawyers requested bail, but the judge denied it, citing concerns about his behavior and wealth. The charges carry significant penalties, and his arrest marks a high-profile case in the music industry involving sexual misconduct.
Sean Combs Must Stay in Jail Until Trial After Judge Rejects Appeal
A federal judge has ordered music mogul Sean Combs to remain in jail until his trial for sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, rejecting an appeal for bail. The judge cited concerns about witness tampering and the safety of the community. Prosecutors highlighted a leaked surveillance video showing Combs assaulting his former girlfriend and expressed worries about his potential influence on witnesses.
‘Beast Games’ Contestants File Lawsuit Claiming ‘Dangerous Conditions’ on Set
A lawsuit has been filed by five anonymous contestants against MrBeast’s production company, alleging that participants were exposed to dangerous circumstances and conditions during the filming of the reality competition show "Beast Games." The contestants claim they experienced inadequate food and medical care, were not appropriately compensated, and were misled about the number of participants and the odds of winning. Some contestants suffered injuries and required hospitalization during the show, resulting in an unpleasant and potentially hazardous experience. MrBeast, known for his philanthropic YouTube videos, and Amazon MGM Studios have not commented on the lawsuit. The contestants have expressed feeling mistreated, traumatized, embarrassed, and degraded by their experience on the show.
Coppola Sues After Report Said He Tried to Kiss ‘Megalopolis’ Extras
Director Francis Ford Coppola is suing Variety for libel after it reported that he tried to kiss extras on the set of "Megalopolis." Coppola is seeking $15 million in damages and claims that the article's allegations were false and damaging to his reputation. The lawsuit argues that the sources violated nondisclosure agreements, and that Variety should not have trusted them. The director's behavior during filming was defended by a co-producer of the film, who stated that it was intended to set the scene. Coppola has asked Variety to retract the article, but the publication has stood by its reporters. The lawsuit also disputes a claim that Coppola's actions ruined a shot and implies he was not able to direct professionally.
More and More Artists Want Trump to Stop Using Their Music. They Face a Costly Fight.
Various artists, including The White Stripes, are taking legal action against former President Donald Trump for the unauthorized use of their music. These lawsuits highlight the complex legal landscape around music copyrights and political campaigns. Artists like Beyoncé and the Foo Fighters have also raised concerns about their music being used without permission. Legal experts explain how campaigns can navigate copyright laws and detail the challenges artists face in pursuing legal action, given the high costs involved. Ultimately, the issue underscores the importance of respecting artists' rights and the legal complexities involved in using music in political contexts.
Harvey Weinstein Faces New Sexual Assault Charge in Manhattan
Harvey Weinstein, the disgraced Hollywood producer, faces a new sex-crime indictment in a Manhattan court after a previous conviction was overturned. Prosecutors accuse him of sexually assaulting a woman in 2006, adding to his existing legal troubles, including convictions in California.
He Had 5 Followers on YouTube. It Landed Him in Jail, Where He Died.
Pavel Kushnir, a Russian musician and activist, gained attention after his death in jail due to his criticism of the war in Ukraine. Despite having just 5 followers on YouTube, his antiwar stance led to his imprisonment, where he eventually died. Kushnir was a talented pianist and writer who had been vocal about his opposition to President Putin and the war in Ukraine. His death has sparked reflection among activists and artists in Russia, questioning why such a talented performer had to sacrifice himself to become an antiwar symbol. Kushnir's story details his background, political activism, and tragic death in detention. His life and untimely death have raised important discussions about freedom of expression and the personal risks faced by those who speak out against the government in Russia.
Arts
Gallery Owner Sentenced in Fine Art Photography Swindle
Detroit-area gallery owner Wendy Halsted Beard has been sentenced to 5 years and 3 months in prison for defrauding photography collectors of $1.6 million worth of fine art photos in a criminal scheme. She agreed to sell over 100 fine art photographs on behalf of collectors, kept the profits for herself, and deceived clients with excuses. Beard sold valuable works by photographers like Diane Arbus and Ansel Adams, with one photo selling for $440,000. She used various tactics to conceal her actions, including fabricating health issues and swapping out prints. Beard must pay over $2 million in restitution and has been found guilty of wire fraud.
Academic Plagiarism Complaint Against the Author of ‘White Fragility’ Dismissed
The University of Washington dismissed a plagiarism complaint against Robin DiAngelo, author of "White Fragility," regarding her 2004 dissertation. The complaint cited instances where DiAngelo's work allegedly appropriated other scholars' ideas without proper credit, but the university found that these instances did not meet the criteria for plagiarism. DiAngelo claimed the accusations were politically motivated to undermine her work on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Experts noted that while some passages were problematic, they did not amount to deliberate plagiarism. Similar complaints against diversity advocates have surfaced at other universities, often anonymously and confidentially.
New York Philharmonic Players Reach Deal Raising Base Pay to $205,000
The New York Philharmonic Players have reached a new labor agreement that will raise their base pay to $205,000 over the next 3 years, making them among the highest-paid orchestra musicians in the country. The agreement also includes provisions to make the hiring process fairer and more transparent. The orchestra will fund the wage increases through fundraising efforts. Additionally, changes in the audition process aim to address the lack of diversity in classical music by working with organizations promoting greater inclusivity. The agreement was praised by the players' union and the Philharmonic's interim leader for recognizing the talent of the musicians and ensuring competitive salaries to attract and retain top talent.
Sports
APM Legal Blitz Continues With American Hockey League Action Targeting Alleged ‘Rampant Infringement’
Associated Production Music (APM) has filed a lawsuit against the American Hockey League (AHL) for allegedly using recordings in promotional videos without permission. APM accuses the AHL of "rampant infringement" of its protected works on social media channels and names several AHL teams as defendants. This legal action follows a trend where music rightsholders are suing entities for unauthorized use of their music, with recent cases involving Johnson & Johnson, NBA teams, Marriott, and the Beastie Boys. These ongoing legal battles highlight the persistent issue of copyright infringement in the music industry.
Lawsuit Accusing James Dolan of Sex Trafficking Dismissed by judge
A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit against James Dolan, owner of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers, filed by a woman alleging that he pressured her into sex a decade ago. The judge stated that the plaintiff did not provide sufficient evidence to support her claims under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act. The lawsuit also involved allegations against Harvey Weinstein, but the sexual battery and assault claims were dismissed without prejudice. The plaintiff's attorneys plan on appealing the decision.
Nintendo and The Pokémon Company Sue Palworld-maker Pocketpair
Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have filed a patent-infringement lawsuit against Pocketpair, the developers of Palworld, a game heavily inspired by Pokémon. The lawsuit seeks an injunction and damages, alleging that Palworld infringes multiple patent rights. While copyright law typically does not cover a game's design elements, the lawsuit specifically mentions patent infringement. Pocketpair maintains they have not intentionally infringed on any intellectual property rights and express disappointment over the legal action, which they believe will divert their focus from game development. The high legal bar for infringement may be met if Palworld's 3D character models were allegedly lifted from actual Pokémon game files.
Should Betting on Elections Be Legal?
Kalshi, a regulated prediction market, briefly legalized election betting in the United States before a federal appeals court blocked the decision. This event has ignited a debate over the pros and cons of allowing election wagers. Supporters suggest that regulated election betting could provide valuable forecasting data and allow businesses to hedge election-related risks. In contrast, critics are concerned about potential market manipulation and its impact on democracy. The legal and regulatory hurdles surrounding election betting include compliance with federal and state laws designed to prevent gambling-related corruption and ensure market integrity. Different states have varying regulations on gambling and betting, adding complexity to implementing a unified approach. Additionally, federal oversight aims to prevent election manipulation and maintain public trust in the electoral process. Stakeholders from various sectors offer differing perspectives on these issues.
Technology/Media
U.S. Internet Service Providers Slam “extortionate pressure” of Copyright Lawsuits as They Urge the Supreme Court to Scrap Cox Judgement
Several internet service providers (ISPs) are urging the Supreme Court to review and overturn the billion-dollar judgement in the legal battle between major record companies and Cox Communications. ISPs, such as Frontier, Lumen, Altice, and Verizon argue that the ruling places undue responsibility on them for online copyright infringement, leading to costly lawsuits and potential termination of customer accounts. The precedent set by Cox has raised concerns among ISPs about the impact on innocent users and the hindrance of innovation in connecting Americans to the internet. The major record companies claimed that Cox did not adequately address repeat infringers among its customers, leading to the initial billion-dollar damages award. Other ISPs facing similar litigation are also advocating for the Supreme Court to reverse the ruling. The ISPs highlight the importance of distinguishing culpable conduct and the need for active wrongdoing to hold companies liable for their customers' actions, as emphasized in a previous Supreme Court ruling. Cox Communications has emphasized the potential consequences of enforcing account termination for alleged copyright infringement, stating that entire households and businesses could be affected.
YouTube CEO Says Google Faces Plenty of Ad Tech Competition
The YouTube CEO, Neal Mohan, testified in federal court that Google acted in the best interest of consumers and the ad industry, refuting accusations of crushing rivals. The Justice Department alleges that Google has a monopoly on the advertising technology market. The case involves Google's acquisition of DoubleClick and its impact on ad prices and publishers. The trial is part of a broader effort by regulators to curb the power of tech companies. The government has called for Google to sell off DoubleClick, among other measures. Google argues that the focus on split-second ad auctions is narrow, and that the online ad market is much larger. The case includes emails and documents showing Google's acquisition strategies. Google's attorneys emphasize that its actions were not unique and that other companies were also expanding their ad tech businesses. Witnesses described how Google used its dominance in one area to cement power in another. The trial continues with testimony from senior Google executives and arguments from both sides.
Judges Show Some Skepticism of TikTok’s Fight Against Potential U.S. Ban
In a landmark case, TikTok faces legal challenges in the U.S. over a law that could force the app to sell to a non-Chinese owner or be banned. A panel of federal judges expressed skepticism about TikTok's arguments, questioning Congress's authority and the company's defense against being singled out. The government raised concerns about national security threats posed by TikTok's Chinese ownership. The case has drawn interest from various groups, with TikTok arguing that a ban would violate free speech rights. The outcome could have significant implications for TikTok's future in the U.S. and its 170 million users. The court is considering whether the national security threat justifies speech restrictions. The Biden administration has not disclosed specifics on the national security risk posed by TikTok, citing confidentiality. TikTok has made efforts to address security concerns by restructuring its U.S. operations, but faces a looming deadline for the ban.
California Passes Election ‘Deepfake’ Laws, Forcing Social Media Companies to Take Action
California has passed new laws concerning the regulation of deepfake content related to elections. These laws require social media platforms to moderate and address the spread of AI-generated deepfakes. Governor Gavin Newsom signed three new laws aimed at banning or labeling deepfakes, with only one taking effect in time for the 2024 presidential election. The laws aim to combat the dissemination of manipulative content powered by artificial intelligence, such as creating deceptive audio or visual media. While these laws have bipartisan support and are focused on limiting deceptive content, they may face legal challenges from social media companies or free speech advocacy groups. The regulations also include requirements for labeling and removal of deepfakes on social media platforms within a specified timeframe. These laws only apply to deceptive deepfakes that could mislead voters and do not restrict satire or parody, as long as they are appropriately labeled. Additionally, the legislation addresses the use of deepfake technology in Hollywood and how it can be used with performer consent and estate permissions. Some critics argue that these laws may be difficult to enforce and could pose challenges in distinguishing between deceptive speech and protected speech under the First Amendment. Despite opposition from free speech and digital rights groups, supporters of the laws believe they are necessary to combat the spread of misinformation during elections.
Instagram, Facing Pressure Over Child Safety Online, Unveils Sweeping Changes
Instagram has announced significant changes to improve child safety and privacy on the platform, particularly for users under 18. The new measures include defaulting accounts of users younger than 18 to private settings, limiting notifications during nighttime hours, and providing more supervision tools for parents. This initiative, called "Teen Accounts," aims to address concerns about inappropriate contact, content, and screen time. The changes come amidst growing scrutiny over social media's impact on young users, with calls for tighter regulations and accountability from platforms like Instagram, owned by Meta. While these changes are seen as a step in the right direction by some, concerns remain about underage users and potential impact on engagement and growth for the platform. The effectiveness of these changes and their reception among teenagers are yet to be fully realized.
A.I. Pioneers Call for Protections Against ‘Catastrophic Risks’
Scientists in the field of artificial intelligence are calling for global oversight to manage potential risks posed by the rapid advancements in A.I. technology. They warn that without proper regulations, A.I. systems could surpass human control, leading to catastrophic outcomes for humanity. The scientists propose the establishment of international authorities to monitor and set boundaries for A.I. development, emphasizing the need for collaboration between countries to address these challenges. Amid growing competition between the U.S. and China in the A.I. sector, concerns about distrust and diverging policy goals are complicating efforts to align on safety measures. The discussions among A.I. pioneers underscore the importance of scientific exchange and collaboration to navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
Data Center Emissions Probably 662% Higher Than Big Tech Claims
Emissions from in-house data centers of major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Apple may be substantially higher than officially reported, potentially 662% or 7.62 times higher than stated. As energy demand in data centers increases, concerns about carbon emissions are growing. The rise of artificial intelligence and increased power demand in data centers are anticipated to significantly boost carbon emissions. Companies often rely on renewable energy certificates (RECs) for their accounting, which can produce misleading figures compared to location-based emissions. To address these discrepancies, Google and Microsoft are pushing for more precise accounting practices that align renewable energy production with energy consumption. The tech industry's "creative accounting" and offsetting practices have raised questions about the accuracy and transparency of reported emissions. Furthermore, there are challenges in accounting for emissions from third-party data centers and uncertainties surrounding Scope 3 emissions. Overall, concerns are mounting about the accuracy of reported emissions and the need for more transparent accounting practices in the tech industry to mitigate the escalating environmental impact of data centers.
On YouTube, Major Brands’ Ads Appear Alongside Racist Falsehoods About Haitian Immigrants
Major brands' ads have been displayed alongside racist falsehoods about Haitian immigrants on YouTube, despite efforts to avoid polarizing or harmful content. Advertisements for companies like Mazda, Adobe, and even Vice President Kamala Harris have appeared next to debunked claims on the platform. This situation underscores the difficulties advertisers face in ensuring brand safety online, especially during a volatile election year. Automated algorithms for ad placement on platforms like YouTube have been criticized for inadvertently funding misinformation or hate speech. Advertisers are increasingly demanding more control over where their ads appear and are calling for better protections against harmful content. YouTube's actions in response to harmful content, such as banning accounts after the Capitol attack, have faced scrutiny, raising concerns about the platform's moderation practices. The advertising industry is navigating a complex and challenging landscape in maintaining brand safety amidst increasing political tensions and misinformation online.
Requiring A.I. Transparency Won’t Destroy the Trade Secrets of A.I. Companies
Congress is considering several bills that would require generative A.I. companies to reveal the materials used to train their models. One such bill is H.R. 7913, the Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act of 2024. These legislative measures emphasize the critical need for transparency within the A.I. ecosystem. While some A.I. companies worry that disclosing this information could expose trade secrets, the bill clarifies that trade secrets do not include the requested information, which mainly pertains to copyrighted works used without proper licensing. Advocates argue that transparency is essential for various reasons, including enforcing copyright laws and detecting biases in A.I. models.
Presidential Campaigns and Allies Plan $500 Million in TV and Radio Ads
Presidential campaigns and their allies are planning to spend over $500 million on TV and radio advertising in the final 7 weeks of the 2024 election.
U.S. Accuses Russian TV Network of Conducting Covert Intelligence Acts
The United States, Canada, and Britain have accused Russia's global television network, RT, of being an arm of Russian intelligence agencies. New sanctions have been imposed to cut off international financing for disinformation operations conducted by RT. The sanctions come after the Justice Department indicted 2 RT employees for funding American podcasters to push Kremlin propaganda. The U.S. Secretary of State stated that RT is no longer just a news organization, but conducts covert operations in multiple countries under Kremlin direction. The sanctions aim to hinder RT's global business operations. This intensified effort by the Biden administration seeks to counter Russia's influence operations, including in countries like Argentina, France, and Moldova. RT has been accused of engaging in cyberespionage and supporting Russia's activities in Ukraine. The U.S. aims to alert nations about RT's covert activities and potential Russian influence campaigns.
Musk Finds a (Temporary) Way Around Brazil’s X Ban
Elon Musk's social network, X, was temporarily unblocked in Brazil after making a technical change to how it routes its internet traffic to evade the digital roadblocks set up by Brazilian internet providers. However, the Brazilian regulators are expected to restore the block soon. The situation highlights the power struggle between national sovereignty and internet companies. Musk's satellite-internet provider, Starlink, initially tried to deliver X directly to Brazilians, but later backed down after facing consequences. X's new workaround relied on using Cloudflare, a major internet-infrastructure provider, to deliver its site in Brazil. Anatel, Brazil's telecommunications regulator, worked with Cloudflare to isolate X's internet traffic so that Brazilian internet providers could easily block it. Musk recently backed down and X agreed to comply with the court order.
General News
How the Secret Service Missed Chances to Halt a Tragedy at a Trump Rally
The Secret Service missed chances to prevent an assassination attempt at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania due to disorganized communication, security threats being identified but dropped, vague instructions, and lack of follow-through. The failures included unguarded warehouses, deficient communication with local law enforcement, and negligence in securing the rally site. The agency's security plans were not effectively communicated, essential personnel were not represented in the command center, and there was confusion about basic assignments. Despite discussions and warnings about the warehouses being a security risk, they were left unguarded. The lack of coordination and miscommunication between the Secret Service and local law enforcement agencies contributed to the missed opportunities to prevent the tragedy. A flawed communication plan, dueling command centers, and inadequate representation of local police in the Secret Service command post led to critical breakdowns in information sharing, ultimately allowing the gunman to open fire on Trump. The agency has accepted responsibility for the failures and is under investigation to address the security gaps and ensure such lapses do not occur in the future.
In Jan. 6 Case Filing, Trump Lawyers Again Demand Dismissal
Trump's lawyers have once again demanded the dismissal of the federal indictment against him for his alleged involvement in the Capitol attack on Jan. 6. In a procedural filing, the lawyers pushed for the charges to be dropped or for the case schedule to be revised, despite the judge's earlier rulings rejecting similar arguments. The defense team has been employing aggressive tactics in defending Trump, including challenging the immunity granted to him for official acts while in office. Judge Tanya S. Chutkan has shown little patience for the defense's attempts to delay the case or make questionable arguments. The lawyers' latest filing, which missed the deadline set by the judge, may further test her patience.
Justice Department Files $100 Million Claim in Fatal Baltimore Bridge Collapse
The U.S. Justice Department has filed a legal claim seeking over $100 million in damages against the owner and operator of the container ship Dali, which caused the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, resulting in the death of six workers. The lawsuit accuses the companies of gross negligence and recklessness, stating that the disaster could have been prevented with proper maintenance and adherence to safety regulations. The government aims to hold the shipowner and operator accountable for the emergency response costs and aid to affected port employees, as well as to prevent such incidents in the future with punitive damages. The incident, attributed to a series of failures onboard the ship, occurred due to the vessel's lack of operational control mechanisms. The companies involved have denied liability and plan to contest the claim in court.
Legal Watchdog Group Warns Pro-Trump Lawyers Against Subverting Democracy in November
Legal watchdog group the 65 Project is running ads in legal journals warning pro-Trump lawyers against subverting democracy in the upcoming election. The group aims to remind lawyers about ethical responsibilities and prevent them from using their skills in questionable ways, echoing past cases where lawyers faced consequences for their involvement in attempts to overturn election results. The ads will target lawyers in swing states and emphasize the importance of upholding legal ethics to avoid losing their law licenses. The group hopes to deter lawyers from engaging in efforts that violate legal codes of ethics and potentially harm the democratic process. The 65 Project takes its name from the 65 lawsuits filed by pro-Trump lawyers after the 2020 election and includes notable figures in its advisory board. Advertisements emphasize the risks pro-Trump lawyers face in engaging in actions that could lead to disciplinary measures or legal consequences.
Trump’s Talk of Prosecution Rattles Election Officials
Donald Trump's threats to investigate and prosecute election officials he deems corrupt, despite a lack of evidence, have raised concerns among democracy experts and election workers. His statements have incited threats and violence towards election officials, many of whom have received countless threats, including death threats. This rhetoric impacts the safety and work environment of election officials and has significant implications for democracy in the United States. Democracy experts warn that such actions could undermine public trust in the electoral process and discourage individuals from serving as election officials, ultimately harming the integrity of future elections.
Secret Service Admits Not Searching Golf Course Perimeter, Drawing New Scrutiny
The Secret Service admitted to not searching the perimeter of the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Fla., before Trump began his round. The decision raised questions about the agency's resources and ability to perform its duties effectively amidst increasing violence. Despite praising the swift actions of agents in preventing harm to Trump during a recent incident, concerns have been raised regarding the agency's protocols and readiness to address security threats. The Secret Service is facing challenges in protecting current and former presidents and their families due to personnel shortages, long hours, and limited funding. There are calls for Congress to provide more resources to address the agency's increasing mission requirements and ensure better protection for the individuals under its care.
Suspect Never Took a Shot at Trump but Hid Undetected for 12 Hours
Ryan W. Routh, a man charged with federal gun crimes after pointing a rifle towards a golf course where Trump was playing, did not discharge a shot, but remained undetected for nearly 12 hours. Routh, a building contractor with a criminal history, hid in the bushes near the course, where Secret Service agents eventually fired at him. The incident is being investigated as an assassination attempt, and Routh faces felony gun charges. The Secret Service plans to review the security episode, and both Trump and President Biden have since spoken about the incident.
Trump, Outrage and the Modern Era of Political Violence
A recent assassination attempt on Trump highlights political violence in America, following his controversial remarks about immigrants. Although President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris condemned the attack, political campaigns continued without interruption. Trump's history of provocative language and his reluctance to denounce violence, often blaming opponents, are noted. Historical parallels are drawn, emphasizing the divisiveness of Trump's rhetoric. Despite the severity of the incident, its impact may be limited due to the ongoing polarization and frequent political violence. This situation underscores the complexities of addressing political violence and the role of figures like Trump in either exacerbating or alleviating these issues.
Chief Counsel to Eric Adams Resigns Amid Federal Investigations
The chief counsel to NYC Mayor Eric Adams, Lisa Zornberg, abruptly resigned amidst federal investigations into the mayor and his inner circle. Zornberg, a former federal prosecutor, had been a staunch defender of Adams but cited her inability to effectively serve in her position as the reason for her resignation. Her departure came amidst multiple corruption investigations into the mayor and his aides by federal prosecutors in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Despite his not being accused of wrongdoing, the investigations have disrupted Adams's administration and prompted calls for his resignation. Zornberg's resignation was sudden and immediate, leaving no time for a transition to a new counsel. Adams thanked Zornberg for her service and stated that he expected to name an acting chief counsel soon. The investigations have also impacted the mayor's ability to hire a new Corporation Counsel, as his previous nominee withdrew due to opposition from the City Council.
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