GERRI WILLIS: This Christmas, I keep thinking about family, friends in western NC. America should, too

Prosecutors are concluding their case in the federal sex-trafficking trial of rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs, who faces serious charges including using his power to facilitate sexual abuse. Key testimonies, particularly from his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, detail alleged abuse and coercion, while the defense is expected to present their case soon amid complexities regarding evidence and witness credibility. Need More Context? 🔎

Federal agents are arresting migrants at immigration courts, even after their deportation cases have been dismissed, as part of a strategy to expedite deportations under the Trump administration, according to immigration attorneys. This tactic raises concerns about undermining due process rights and instilling fear in immigrant communities, as many migrants now feel unsafe attending court hearings. Need More Context? 🔎

Teresa Youngblut, charged in the death of U.S. Border Patrol agent David Maland during a January traffic stop in Vermont, is set for a federal court hearing linked to the violent cultlike group Zizians. The group, associated with multiple killings and founded by Jack LaSota, has been under scrutiny for radical beliefs; Youngblut has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the incident. Need More Context? 🔎

A federal jury awarded $500,000 to the widow of Metropolitan Police Officer Jeffrey Smith, who died by suicide after the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. The jury found chiropractor David Walls-Kaufman liable for assaulting Smith during the riot, awarding $380,000 in punitive damages and $60,000 in compensatory damages, despite the judge dismissing a wrongful-death claim. Need More Context? 🔎

Authorities in Northern California recovered the bodies of three hikers who drowned after jumping into Rattlesnake Falls near Lake Tahoe while hiking with a group. The Placer County Sheriff's Office suspended search operations due to adverse weather but planned to resume with better conditions; further details about the incident were not immediately available. Need More Context? 🔎

Amgen's monthly weight loss drug MariTide demonstrated a 20% average body weight reduction in a phase 2 trial, positioning it as a potential competitor in the GLP-1 market dominated by Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. With added benefits like improved A1c levels and cardiovascular risk factors, MariTide aims for a phase 3 trial, highlighting advancements in diabetes and weight loss treatments. Need More Context? 🔎