Chicago career scammer sentenced to 14 years for sex assault, theft

ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million in a defamation suit with President-elect Donald Trump. The settlement coincided with anchor George Stephanopoulos' new contract, following reports of behind-the-scenes drama at the network. The lawsuit stemmed from Stephanopoulos' claim that Trump was found liable for "rape," leading to a settlement where ABC News will pay $15 million and issue statements of regret. Full Article

Wellesley police responded to an attempted break-in at Jaylen Brown's mansion while he was away for a Celtics game, with no items taken or disturbed inside. Police confirmed signs of forced entry and viewed video surveillance of three men in gray sweatshirts attempting to break in. The incident is under investigation, following security warnings issued to NBA and NFL players regarding burglaries at athletes' homes. Full Article

Ahmed al-Kassem reunites with his sister in Syria after over a decade apart, as part of the 7,600 Syrian refugees who have returned from Turkey since December 9. The return follows Bashar Assad's ousting by insurgents, marking a significant moment for families like al-Kassem's who are finally able to come back home. Full Article

Fox News host Sean Hannity criticizes House Republicans for the stopgap funding bill aimed at avoiding a government shutdown, citing the rising national debt exceeding $36 trillion. The bill, over 1,500 pages, includes excessive spending on pet projects, such as a new bridge in Baltimore and pay increases for members of Congress. Hannity calls for a return to constitutional order amidst what he deems unacceptable work by lawmakers. Full Article

A woman in her 60s driving a blue BMW died after a theft suspect crashed into her car while fleeing police in La Palma. The suspect, identified as Anthony Hanzel, 40, of Anaheim, will be booked on charges including hit-and-run and felony evading. The pursuit started in Fullerton and ended with the suspect crashing into the victim's car at an intersection, causing multiple collisions with other vehicles. Full Article

Senator Dick Durbin engaged in a heated exchange with a CNN reporter over lawmakers potentially receiving a pay raise for the first time since 2009. Durbin mocked CNN for getting paid consistently despite losing viewers, prompting a discussion on media salaries and public trust in institutions. The exchange highlighted differing perspectives on congressional pay raises and media accountability amid shifting public opinion. Full Article