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MAINSTREAM ESPN • 4 hours ago

'Just relief': U.S. survives OT thriller to reach semis

The United States men's hockey team advanced to the Olympic semifinals after a dramatic 2-1 overtime victory against Sweden in the quarterfinals. Sweden tied the game with just 91 seconds remaining in regulation, sending the match into extra time. Quinn Hughes then scored the game-winning goal in overtime, securing the win for Team USA. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was instrumental in the victory, making 28 saves, including a critical stop on a high-quality scoring chance. The late tying goal by Sweden heightened tensions, with players describing the final moments as some of the most nerve-wracking of their careers. Despite the setback, Team USA showed resilience and composure to prevail in overtime. The win keeps alive the possibility of a gold medal showdown between the North American rivals, the United States and Canada, who also advanced to the semifinals after a tense match against Finland. Looking ahead, the U.S. will face Slovakia in the semifinals, a team noted for its speed, competitiveness, and strong performance throughout the tournament. Quinn Hughes emphasized the challenge ahead, likening each game to a "Game 7" scenario due to the high stakes and intensity. The semifinal matchups promise to be fiercely contested as the teams vie for a spot in the Olympic final.

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MAINSTREAM ESPN • 4 hours ago

Report: Hornets' Ball uninjured after car crash

Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball was involved in a two-car collision in downtown Charlotte but emerged uninjured, according to a source familiar with the incident. The crash occurred shortly before 5 p.m. when Ball’s custom camouflage Hummer collided with another vehicle at an intersection. Video footage showed Ball exiting his vehicle and later being driven away in another car, while police were present at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle appeared unharmed and calmly approached Ball’s truck after the collision. Details about the other driver and the cause of the crash have not been released, and no official police report was immediately available. The left front tire of Ball’s Hummer was visibly missing in the video, indicating some damage to his vehicle. The incident took place on the same day the Hornets held practice, ahead of their Thursday night game against the Houston Rockets as the NBA resumes following the All-Star break. Ball’s crash adds to a recent pattern of professional athletes experiencing vehicle accidents in Charlotte. Notably, former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton suffered a fractured back in a 2014 crash less than a mile from the site of Ball’s collision. More recently, Panthers backup quarterback Andy Dalton injured his thumb in a two-car crash earlier this year in the city. These incidents highlight ongoing concerns about traffic safety in the area, especially involving high-profile sports figures.

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MAINSTREAM BBC Sport • 11 hours ago

Gordon channels Shearer after breaking his record

Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon made history by becoming the club’s all-time top scorer in the Champions League, netting four goals in a dominant 6-1 victory over Qarabag in the first leg of their last 16 Champions League play-off tie. Gordon’s tally of 10 Champions League goals surpassed the previous record held by club legend Alan Shearer. Demonstrating determination and confidence, Gordon insisted on taking a penalty despite a teammate’s request, echoing Shearer’s famously single-minded approach to goal-scoring. The match took place at the Tofig Bahramov Republican Stadium, where Qarabag, Azerbaijan Premier League champions, struggled to contain Gordon’s pace and movement, especially as he played in a more advanced role. Qarabag’s defensive strategy, including maintaining a high line in the first half, left them vulnerable to Gordon’s incisive runs and finishing. Pundits and Newcastle’s manager Eddie Howe praised Gordon’s overall contribution, highlighting his pressing and all-around play as key factors in the team’s success. Gordon’s recent performances in this role have been impressive, including scoring at Anfield and assisting a winning goal against Tottenham Hotspur. His ability to operate effectively through the middle provides Newcastle with a new attacking dimension. Howe emphasized Gordon’s quality and work rate, noting that his pressing helped create a platform for the team’s attacking play. Gordon also became just the second English player after Harry Kane to reach double figures in a single Champions League campaign, underscoring his growing influence on the European stage. This result and Gordon’s record-breaking performance significantly boost Newcastle’s chances of advancing in the Champions League, marking a milestone for both the player and the club. The victory also signals Newcastle’s rising stature in European football under Howe’s management, with Gordon emerging as a key figure in their continental ambitions.

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MAINSTREAM BBC Sport • 10 hours ago

Balague details aftermath of Vinicius racism allegation

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. was involved in an alleged racist incident during the club’s recent Champions League match against Benfica. The incident reportedly involved a confrontation between Vinicius and Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni. Football analyst Guillem Balague, who attended the match, provided insights into the aftermath of the allegation, highlighting the ongoing challenges Vinicius faces regarding racial abuse in football. Vinicius Jr. has been a target of racist abuse throughout his eight years at Real Madrid, with reports indicating around 20 separate cases. The incident at Benfica adds to a growing list of such occurrences that have sparked widespread condemnation and calls for stronger action against racism in the sport. Balague’s commentary emphasized the emotional and psychological toll these incidents have on players, as well as the broader implications for football’s governing bodies and clubs in addressing discrimination. The case underscores the persistent problem of racism in football, despite increased awareness and initiatives aimed at combating it. Vinicius’s experience reflects the difficulties faced by many players of color who continue to endure abuse from fans and sometimes opponents. The incident has reignited discussions about the effectiveness of current measures and the need for more robust enforcement to protect players and promote inclusivity within the game. As the football community reacts, the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against racism in sports. It highlights the importance of continued vigilance, education, and decisive action to ensure that football remains a safe and respectful environment for all participants. The response from clubs, leagues, and governing bodies in the coming weeks will be closely watched as they seek to address these deeply rooted issues.

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MAINSTREAM The Guardian Sport • 15 hours ago

Vinícius, Mourinho and treating racism as reputational risk rather than a lived reality | Jonathan Liew

José Mourinho’s recent remarks regarding the racial abuse incident involving Vinícius Júnior have sparked significant controversy and criticism. After Vinícius alleged that he was racially insulted during a Champions League playoff match, Mourinho responded by emphasizing Benfica’s history and denying the club’s association with racism. He highlighted the legacy of Eusébio, a Black footballing icon at Benfica, as a counterpoint to the accusations. Mourinho’s comments were widely seen as dismissive and insensitive, prompting accusations that he was downplaying the lived reality of racism in football. The incident centers on whether Gianluca Prestianni, an opposing player, called Vinícius “a monkey,” a claim Prestianni denies, suggesting the situation was a misunderstanding. Prestianni’s attempt to cover his mouth while speaking has fueled skepticism about his innocence. This case reflects a broader pattern in football where allegations of racial abuse are often met with doubt, equivocation, and demands for irrefutable proof, which can undermine the experiences of victims. Vinícius’s account is supported by the context and his proximity to the alleged insult, lending credibility to his claim. Mourinho’s response has been criticized not only for its content but also for its tone, which many interpret as prioritizing the club’s reputation over addressing the serious issue of racism. His remarks illustrate a common tendency in football to treat racism as a reputational risk rather than a systemic problem affecting players’ lives. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in combating racism within the sport, where institutional responses often fall short of acknowledging and confronting the problem directly. The episode underscores the need for football authorities and clubs to take stronger, more empathetic stances on racism. It also raises questions about the role of influential figures like Mourinho in shaping public discourse around such incidents. The persistence of racial abuse in football, despite repeated incidents and public outcry, points to deeper cultural and structural issues that require sustained attention and action beyond mere statements of denial or defense.

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MAINSTREAM The Guardian Sport • 16 hours ago

‘Princess Anne thought I was Joe Marler’: Heyes mixed up in case of mistaken identity

During the Calcutta Cup pre-match formalities at Murrayfield, Princess Anne mistakenly identified England rugby player Joe Heyes as his retired teammate Joe Marler. The Princess Royal, patron of Scottish Rugby, engaged Heyes in conversation, praising his appearance on the celebrity version of The Traitors, a show Marler had featured on. Heyes, a 26-year-old Leicester tighthead prop, was taken aback but chose not to correct the royal, describing the encounter as a “very cool moment” despite the mix-up. Princess Anne, who has been patron of Scottish Rugby since 1986, was unaware that Marler had retired from international rugby 15 months earlier. Marler, a 35-year-old former England prop with 95 caps, has gained public recognition through his participation in Celebrity Traitors, where he reached the final round. Heyes noted that he has often been mistaken for Marler but never by a member of the royal family before. The incident highlights the close-knit nature of rugby circles and the prominence of players like Marler, who have transitioned into media personalities post-retirement. It also underscores the significance of the Calcutta Cup fixture, a historic rivalry between England and Scotland, where formalities often include interactions with prominent figures such as Princess Anne. Heyes’ diplomatic response to the case of mistaken identity reflects the respect and decorum customary in such high-profile sporting events.

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MAINSTREAM BBC Entertainment • 16 hours ago

Game of Thrones play to open in the UK this summer

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) will premiere a new play based on the Game of Thrones universe this summer in Stratford-upon-Avon. Titled *Game of Thrones: The Mad King*, the production is set a decade before the events of the original books and television series. The play, developed in collaboration with HBO and featuring new material from author George R.R. Martin, will explore an original story centered on a pivotal tournament and the brewing unrest surrounding the realm’s infamous Mad King. The narrative unfolds during a grand jousting tournament where the great houses of Westeros reunite, seemingly hopeful for a new era. However, beneath the surface, dissent and treasonous plots simmer as the Mad King’s brutal reign sparks anxiety among his inner circle. Themes of family loyalty, prophecy, and the struggle for power are central to the drama, promising a tense and richly layered exploration of the political and personal conflicts that define Martin’s world. Martin expressed enthusiasm for the stage adaptation, highlighting the connection between his work and Shakespeare’s legacy. He noted the challenges of staging large-scale battles and complex storytelling, praising the RSC’s expertise and the unique immediacy that live theatre offers. The play is being adapted by Duncan Macmillan, known for *People, Places, Things*, and directed by Dominic Cooke, who will soon become artistic director of London’s Almeida Theatre. This production marks a significant expansion of the Game of Thrones franchise beyond television and spin-off series, offering fans a new medium through which to experience the rich mythology of Westeros. Tickets will go on sale in April, with the premiere scheduled at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, reinforcing the enduring cultural impact of Martin’s work and its resonance with classic English drama.

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MAINSTREAM BBC Entertainment • 23 hours ago

'I don't pay attention': Cynthia Erivo ignores online criticism as Dracula gets mixed reviews

Cynthia Erivo has taken on a formidable theatrical challenge in a new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula at London’s Noël Coward Theatre, where she performs solo, embodying 23 characters over a two-hour show. The production blends live theatre with technology, projecting close-ups of Erivo as she navigates rapid costume changes and a complex script of 20,000 words. Early previews drew mixed reactions, with some audience members noting moments where Erivo appeared to rely on an autocue or was still learning lines. However, Erivo has dismissed online criticism, emphasizing her focus on delivering the performance with full commitment and heart. The minimalist staging relies heavily on Erivo’s vocal and physical transformations, including a distinctive portrayal of Dracula with a Nigerian accent and bright red hair. The show’s innovative use of live cameras and projections creates an intimate experience, allowing the audience to witness the nuances of Erivo’s multiple roles. The actress acknowledged that the preview period was part of her learning process and stressed that every artist’s journey is unique. She expressed confidence that the production’s stripped-back approach and her interpretation bring fresh life to the classic gothic tale. Dracula remains one of the most adapted works of fiction, with countless versions across stage and screen since its 1897 publication. Erivo, a celebrated performer with Emmy, Grammy, Tony, and Oscar nominations, said she was drawn to the role because it pushes her artistic boundaries and demands growth. She described her preparation as rigorous, involving discipline and repetition to sustain the physical and mental demands of the solo performance. Erivo’s commitment to challenging herself highlights her dedication to evolving as an artist and delivering a compelling theatrical experience despite mixed early reviews.

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#9

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MAINSTREAM Hollywood Reporter • 4 hours ago

Robert Duvall Remembered by Bruce Beresford, Who Directed His Oscar-Winning Turn in ‘Tender Mercies’ (Exclusive)

Robert Duvall, the acclaimed actor who won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the 1983 film *Tender Mercies*, has passed away at the age of 95. Australian director Bruce Beresford, who helmed the film, shared his reflections on working with Duvall, describing him as a complex but immensely talented performer. Beresford recalled that the film’s script was written specifically for Duvall by Horton Foote, and that the actor’s dedication to authenticity included spending significant time in Texas to perfect his character’s accent and mannerisms. Beresford noted that while Duvall could be surly and opinionated on set, his performances consistently exceeded expectations. The director recounted an instance where Duvall insisted on removing the boom microphone during filming, arguing that his character would never have a microphone overhead. Despite such quirks, Duvall’s commitment to his craft was evident, and his portrayal of Mac Sledge in *Tender Mercies* remains a defining moment in his career. Beresford also mentioned that although they were both nominated for Oscars that year, their schedules prevented them from reconnecting at the ceremony or at Cannes, where the film was screened. The collaboration between Beresford and Duvall on *Tender Mercies* is widely regarded as a highlight in both their careers, with the film earning critical acclaim and securing Duvall’s place among Hollywood’s elite actors. Beresford’s other notable works include *Breaker Morant* and *Driving Miss Daisy*, the latter winning the Best Picture Oscar. Duvall’s legacy spans decades and a diverse range of roles, and his passing marks the end of an era for American cinema. His dedication to authenticity and nuanced performances continue to influence actors and filmmakers alike.

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MAINSTREAM Hollywood Reporter • 7 hours ago

Man Involved in Shia LaBeouf’s Mardi Gras Arrest Skirmish Alleges Hate Crime

Shia LaBeouf’s arrest during New Orleans’ Mardi Gras celebrations is under renewed scrutiny following allegations from a man involved in the incident that it constituted a hate crime. The altercation occurred shortly after midnight outside R Bar in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, where LaBeouf was restrained after a belligerent outburst. The actor faces two counts of simple assault related to the incident, which left two bartenders injured. LaBeouf was released shortly after his arrest and is scheduled to appear in court on March 19. Jeffrey “Dammit,” a longtime New Orleans resident and Screen Actors Guild member, claims he was targeted by LaBeouf during the confrontation. Jeffrey, who has bartended at R Bar and other local venues over the years, said the conflict began hours earlier when LaBeouf allegedly knocked him into boxes and used homophobic slurs. Despite Jeffrey’s attempts to de-escalate the situation, LaBeouf reportedly continued to verbally abuse him and others, culminating in a physical attack on a bartender that resulted in a broken nose. The incident was captured on video and widely circulated online, showing LaBeouf’s erratic behavior and the efforts of staff and bystanders to restrain him. Jeffrey described the actor’s conduct as more than a simple bar fight, emphasizing the use of hateful language and aggressive threats. Police intervened after being flagged down and took statements from Jeffrey and at least one bartender before arresting LaBeouf. This episode adds to LaBeouf’s history of public disturbances and raises questions about the role of intoxication and potential bias in violent confrontations. The case highlights ongoing concerns about hate crimes and the impact of celebrity behavior in public spaces, particularly during high-profile events like Mardi Gras. The upcoming court proceedings will likely shed further light on the circumstances and consequences of the incident.

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#11

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MAINSTREAM Variety • 8 hours ago

Brendan Carr Confirms FCC Has Begun ‘Enforcement Proceedings’ Against ABC’s ‘The View’ Over Equal Time Issues

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has initiated enforcement proceedings against ABC’s daytime talk show “The View” over alleged violations of the equal time rule concerning political candidates. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr confirmed the action during an appearance on Fox News, stating that the commission is scrutinizing whether “The View” qualifies as a bona fide news program exempt from the equal time requirements. The probe was triggered by the show’s February 2 interview with James Talarico, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Texas, which Carr argues may have breached the rule that mandates equal airtime for political candidates. Carr emphasized that while bona fide news programs are exempt from providing equal time to political candidates, ABC and “The View” have not demonstrated that the show meets this standard. He warned broadcasters that the FCC intends to hold them accountable under the equal time provisions, signaling a stricter enforcement stance. The chairman also criticized other media figures, including Stephen Colbert and CBS’ “The Late Show,” in connection with the broader debate over the application of the rule to entertainment and talk shows that feature political content. The controversy intensified after Colbert claimed CBS blocked an interview with Talarico due to Carr’s interpretation of the equal time rule, a claim CBS later denied, stating it was only advising producers on legal guidelines. Carr’s comments reflect a broader effort by the FCC under his leadership to challenge traditional media practices and assert greater regulatory control over political content on broadcast platforms. This move has sparked debate over the boundaries between news and entertainment programming and the implications for political discourse on television. The enforcement proceedings against “The View” mark a significant development in the FCC’s approach to equal time regulations, potentially reshaping how political candidates are featured on popular broadcast shows. The outcome could influence the programming strategies of networks and the nature of political coverage in the lead-up to elections, raising questions about media freedom and regulatory oversight in the evolving media landscape.

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MAINSTREAM Variety • 8 hours ago

Taraji P. Henson Dresses as Scary Spice on Next Week’s ‘The Masked Singer’ In These Exclusive ‘Spice Girls Night’ Clips

Taraji P. Henson will return to “The Masked Singer” next week dressed as Scary Spice for the show’s upcoming “Spice Girls Night” episode. Henson, who was previously unmasked as Scarab earlier this season, will join other panelists and contestants in celebrating the iconic girl group. The episode will feature performances of classic Spice Girls hits, including “Say You’ll Be There,” “Wannabe,” and “Too Much,” performed by contestants Crane, Snowcone, and Pugcasso respectively. The show is currently on a brief hiatus due to Winter Olympics coverage, with a repeat special airing in its place. Alongside Henson, several panelists will also don Spice Girls-inspired costumes: Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg as Baby Spice, Rita Ora as Posh Spice, and Robin Thicke as Ginger Spice. Ken Jeong will take on a humorous twist as “Old Spice.” The competition continues with 10 masked contestants remaining, including High Voltage, Pangolin, Eggplant, Galaxy Girl, Stingray, Cat Witch, Pugcasso, Snow Cone, and Crane. The season has already unmasked notable celebrities such as Billy Ray Cyrus, Tiffany Haddish, and David “Big Papi” Ortiz. Season 14 of “The Masked Singer” has featured a variety of themed episodes, including tributes to “Star Trek,” “Clueless,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” and the “Twilight Saga.” Upcoming special nights include “Fear Factor: House of Fear Night” hosted by Johnny Knoxville and “Ozzfest Night,” honoring the late Ozzy Osbourne with a tribute by former contestant Kelly Osbourne. The current season boasts a diverse group of 18 contestants who collectively have sold 94 million records, highlighting the show’s blend of music and mystery that continues to engage audiences.

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#13

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MAINSTREAM The Guardian Culture • 18 hours ago

‘I don’t wish anyone to fall down a sewer. Except sometimes’: TikTok sensation and Oscar-nominated star of Weapons Amy Madigan

As her nightmarish turn as orange-wigged child-catcher Aunt Gladys takes her to Oscars night, the actor talks about surviving ‘brutal’ Hollywood, the fury that almost drove her from the US – and still being homeless after the wildfiresIt’s a full-time gig being an Oscar nominee, what with the luncheons and fittings, the interviews and photocalls. It’s a wonder anyone ever gets any actual work done. “I’m tired,” says Amy Madigan, grinning crookedly on a video call. It’s noon in Los Angeles but the living room curtains behind her are shut tight. I worry she may have just pulled an all-nighter.The last time Madigan was nominated was in 1985. She played Gene Hackman’s brittle daughter in a blue-collar drama called Twice in a Lifetime (the title now feels apt). Awards season, she points out, was shorter and sweeter back then. “Now it’s a big unruly beast. ‘We want to speak to Amy!’ I’ve been doing this since November. Do you not think people are sick of talking about us and seeing our faces? Haven’t you people seen enough?” Continue reading...

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#14

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MAINSTREAM The Guardian Culture • 17 hours ago

U2: Days of Ash review – six new tracks reaffirm the band as a vital political voice

(Island)On their first collection of new songs since 2017, the quartet have a crispness that has been lacking in their 21st-century material, as they nimbly react to shocking news stories• News: Bono lambasts ICE, Putin, Netanyahu and more as U2 release first collection of new songs since 2017It’s nearly nine years since U2 released a collection of original material, 2017’s Songs of Experience. They’ve hardly been idle since: two tours, two films, a 40-date residency at the Las Vegas Sphere, nearly three hours of stripped-down re-recordings of old material on Songs of Surrender, plus Bono’s autobiography, which spawned a solo tour, a stint on Broadway and another film. An impressive workload by any standards.Still, you could take the gap between original albums – the longest in U2’s history – as evidence of a problem that’s bedevilled the band for nearly 20 years: where do U2 fit into the current musical landscape? Continue reading...

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#15

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MAINSTREAM GB News • 3 hours ago

GB News panel outlines six key reasons Iran is heading for war - 'We could be days away!'

Ben Leo and his GB News panellists last night outlined six key reasons Iran may be heading for war - and shed light on a key link to Donald Trump's Chagos Islands attack.Freddie Hayward, the New Statesman's US correspondent, and Matt Terrill, the former Chief of Staff to Marco Rubio, sat down with Ben on The Late Show Live to discuss growing fears of conflict in the Middle East.Ben then outlined six developments fuelling fears of conflict between the US and Tehran:First, President Trump has ordered a major show of force in the Middle East. The US has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R Ford alongside additional warships and aircraft, positioning the military for sustained air and naval operations rather than limited strikes. Second, US officials have briefed that any conflict would likely be a massive weeks-long campaign, not short targeted attacks. Third, diplomatic talks have hit red lines. Direct negotiations in Geneva have stalled, with Vice President JD Vance saying that Iran is refusing to acknowledge US demands on uranium enrichment and its missile programme.Fourth, satellite imagery published this week shows Iran fortifying and repairing key nuclear and missile sites. Fifth, Iran is under growing internal pressure as well. Sanctions. High inflation, economic instability and protests have all fuelled unrest. Sixth, Iran has temporarily closed the Strait of Hormuz for live-fire military drills, the first announced closure since the 1980s.Mr Hayward's snap verdict on the six warnings: America is heading for war."I speak to people in Washington, and they certainly think that we are. The pressure's building," he said.And Mr Terrill added a stark warning to the Iranians."They're about to find out what the Trump doctrine is all about: Mess around and find out. I think we could be days away from potential military action taking place here," he said.WATCH THE FULL PANEL DISCUSSION ABOVE FOR MORE

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#16

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MAINSTREAM GB News • 4 hours ago

Council fraudster stole almost £900k from benefits claimants - then spent it on women and cars

A fraudster has been jailed after stealing almost £900,000 from benefits claimants, then spending the money on women and cars.Richard Shaw, 46, worked for Bolton Council's financial protection team between 2015 and 2023.He worked to manage benefits for people who were unable to manage their own finances and did not have anyonne to support them.However, investigations found several bank transfers in 2023 which totalled £893,926 to nine different accounts in his name, Bolton Crown Court found.He has now been sentenced to four years and eight months behind bars after he pleaded guilty to one count of fraud by abuse of position. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say After officers searched Shaw's home in Harrier Close, Bolton, two BMW cars worth an estimated £120,000, computers, and bikes, were seized.He was arrested on suspicion of fraud of position and money laundering.It was also found he spent about £100,000 on a holiday lodge in the Ribble Valley and nearly £18,000 on improvements to his garden.He paid more than £53,000 to different women with references such as "treat", "allowance", "nice", and "a**", which amounted to hundreds of pounds a week.Detective Sergeant Daniel Sanchez, from Greater Manchester Police's economic and cyber crime unit, said: “We carried out a thorough and meticulous two-year investigation into Shaw in conjunction with Bolton Council."Concerns were raised in February 2023 about some of the accounts managed by Shaw."The accounts were unusually low, running out of funds and irregular transactions had been noted."He said Shaw was responsible for managing 120 client cases.DS Sanchez said: "Shaw abused his position of trust within the council, transferring clients’ money to accounts he had set up in his own name.FRAUDSTERS EXPOSED - READ MORE:Benefits cheat collapses in court dock as judge spares her from jail time after £85,000 fraudBenefits fraudster spared jail after pocketing £70,000 despite owning second homeBenefits fraudster admits stealing £100,000 in eight-year fraud“His systematic theft and haphazard spending was uncovered by our financial investigator.He added there will now be a proceeds of crime hearing to reclaim the remaining money and reimburse Bolton Council.CPS specialist prosecutor Stephanie Pendered said: "Richard Shaw was entrusted with safeguarding the finances of some of the most vulnerable people in his community. "Instead, he systematically stole from them over an eight-year period."His victims were people who relied on the council because they could not manage their own affairs. Shaw callously exploited that vulnerability, even targeting the accounts of deceased service users knowing they would be less likely to be checked."​A spokesman for Bolton Council said: "Bolton Council has robust measures in place to detect, prevent and deter corruption and this crime was first uncovered via our own internal safeguards."We have worked closely with Greater Manchester Police to build the case that has resulted in this sentence which reflects the gravity and impact of the crime committed."Cases like this are exceptionally rare and the actions of one person do not reflect a wider workforce that is conscientious, diligent, and committed to public service. "Any identified financial losses to individuals as a result of this fraud have been refunded by the council, and benefit losses rectified." Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter

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MAINSTREAM GB News • 4 hours ago

Burglar orders traumatised pensioners to drink black liquid at knifepoint in their own home

A pensioner couple in Oldham were subjected to a terrifying ordeal when a burglar entered their bedroom and ordered them to consume a mysterious black liquid.Maureen Parkisson, 79, was asleep beside her husband Roland at their Royton home when the intruder woke her by touching her shoulder at approximately 5am on Tuesday."I felt this hand on my shoulder, thinking it was Roland waking me up," she told the Manchester Evening News."I saw his face, he had a hi-vis jacket on, he had gloves on and a hood. I said, 'what do you want?!' And he said 'I'm working outside. I said, 'at 5am in the morning? I don't think so!'".The intruder was described as a "large" six-foot-tall black man with curly hair, wearing a Covid-style face mask and gloves.He demanded the couple hand over their bank cards and drink a black substance he had brought with him.He also threatened them with two breadknives taken from their own kitchen.Roland said the man poured the liquid into a glass from the bedside table and told him to drink it."He said to Roland: 'This'll make you sleep,'" Maureen recalled.Roland tasted the substance but immediately spat it out.The couple, married for 50 years, described the burglar as unusually composed throughout the incident and said he spoke softly while demanding their bank details and PIN numbers.The hooded man appeared to be aged between 20 and 40."I keep seeing him, it keeps replaying in my head," Roland said.CRIME HEADLINES - READ MORE:Four arrested after man killed and teenager critically hurt in 'tragic' knife attack at skate parkFraudster conned pensioner, 73, out of entire life savings after preying on her kindnessPolice fume as repeat offender phone thieves let loose on Britain's streets - only to steal AGAINMaureen added: "I just see his face all the time now, he was only a young chap."The grandmother said the pair now struggle to sleep at night."We're still in shock, we take so long to go to bed now," she said.The couple have lived in their home since 1986 without any previous incidents."I've had a horrible year, I broke my hip, my daughter has been in hospital. I keep thinking when is it going to finish," Maureen said.Greater Manchester Police has confirmed it is investigating two aggravated burglaries in Royton which they believe are connected - including the Parkissons' ordeal.In the other incident, an 82-year-old man discovered an intruder hiding beneath his dining table at around 7.20pm.The attacker overpowered the victim, struck him with his own walking stick, and tied his hands and ankles with cable before placing him in a cupboard.The offender also inflicted a head wound using a knife and stole the victim's wallet.Detective Chief Inspector Zahid Latif from Oldham CID said: "We are taking this extremely seriously. Neighbourhood officers are carrying out increased patrols in the area."Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter

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#18

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MAINSTREAM Metro • 4 hours ago

How many cups of tea you should really drink per day, according to a doctor 

A recent medical perspective has clarified the recommended daily intake of tea, addressing common questions about its health implications. According to the doctor, moderate consumption of tea can offer several health benefits, but excessive drinking may lead to adverse effects. The guidance suggests that drinking three to four cups of tea per day is generally safe and beneficial for most individuals. Tea, rich in antioxidants and compounds like flavonoids, has been linked to improved heart health, better hydration, and enhanced mental alertness. However, consuming too much tea, especially varieties high in caffeine, can cause issues such as insomnia, increased heart rate, and digestive discomfort. The doctor emphasizes the importance of balancing tea intake with other fluids and being mindful of individual tolerance to caffeine. This advice is particularly relevant given the popularity of tea as a daily beverage in many cultures. Understanding the optimal quantity helps consumers maximize health benefits while minimizing risks. It also highlights the need for awareness about the caffeine content in different types of tea, such as black, green, and herbal varieties, which vary significantly. In the broader context of dietary habits, this guidance aligns with general recommendations to maintain a balanced and varied fluid intake. It serves as a reminder that while tea can be a healthy choice, it should complement a diverse diet and not replace water or other essential nutrients. The doctor’s advice contributes to ongoing public health discussions about safe consumption levels of common beverages.

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#19

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MAINSTREAM Metro • 4 hours ago

How police caught gang who ‘beat, robbed and dragged’ boy, 13, for his fake Rolex

A 13-year-old boy was violently attacked, robbed, and dragged by a gang over a fake Rolex watch in East London. Police launched an immediate investigation following the incident, which involved multiple suspects targeting the young victim. The swift response led to the identification and arrest of the gang members responsible for the assault and robbery. Authorities used a combination of CCTV footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to track down the perpetrators. The investigation revealed that the attackers specifically targeted the boy because of the watch, highlighting the risks posed by carrying counterfeit luxury items in vulnerable areas. The suspects were apprehended within days, demonstrating effective police coordination and community cooperation. This case underscores ongoing concerns about youth violence and street crime in urban areas, particularly involving gangs preying on minors. It also raises awareness about the dangers of counterfeit goods, which can provoke violent confrontations. Police have reiterated their commitment to tackling gang-related crime and protecting young people from exploitation and harm in the community.

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#20

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MAINSTREAM The Scotsman • 4 hours ago

Women in ‘life or death’ situations will lose support without funding boost, rape crisis centre warns

A rape crisis centre in Scotland has warned that women facing life-or-death situations risk losing vital support unless additional funding is secured. The centre, which provides assistance to 15 per cent of survivors of rape and sexual violence in the country, was recently informed that its funding will remain unchanged. This freeze comes despite increasing demand for services, raising concerns about the centre’s ability to maintain critical support for vulnerable women. The organisation plays a crucial role in offering counselling, advocacy, and practical help to survivors, many of whom are in urgent need of intervention. Staff have highlighted that without a funding boost, they may be forced to reduce services or turn away those in desperate circumstances. The centre’s warning underscores the broader challenges faced by support services amid rising cases of sexual violence and limited public resources. This funding impasse occurs against a backdrop of heightened awareness of sexual violence issues in Scotland, where advocacy groups have called for increased investment to meet growing needs. The centre’s appeal reflects wider concerns about the sustainability of frontline services that provide essential care and protection for survivors. The potential loss of support could have serious implications for women’s safety and recovery, emphasizing the urgent need for government and public bodies to prioritize funding in this sector.

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