L.A. Mayor Bass’ text messages provide window into early fire response

The death of Phillip Reeder, a 53-year-old man in Alabama, has been ruled a homicide after a police officer restrained him by kneeling on his neck during an altercation on August 4, 2024. Reeder, who suffered from heart disease and had cocaine in his system, became unresponsive after police used a stun gun and physical restraint, prompting family comparisons to the George Floyd case. Want More Context? 🔎

A Florida sheriff's office suspended Officer D. Bowers after he punched driver William McNeil Jr. during a traffic stop in Jacksonville, which went viral. While a state prosecutor found no criminal misconduct, McNeil, who suffered injuries, was sentenced for resisting arrest and driving with a suspended license, and his attorney highlighted concerns over racial violence in policing. Want More Context? 🔎

Roy Black, a renowned Miami defense attorney known for representing high-profile clients like Jeffrey Epstein and William Kennedy Smith, passed away at 80 at his home in Coral Gables. His law partner, Howard Srebnick, and fellow attorney David O. Markus praised Black's unparalleled dedication and influence in criminal defense, likening him to a sports legend. Want More Context? 🔎

At age 45, Venus Williams became the second-oldest woman to win a tour-level singles match, defeating 22-year-old Peyton Stearns 6-3, 6-4 at the DC Open, marking her first singles victory in nearly two years. Supported by an enthusiastic crowd, Williams showcased her powerful serve and skills, advancing to face No. 5 seed Magdalena Frech in the next round. Want More Context? 🔎

Video footage released by the New York Immigration Coalition reveals troubling conditions in New York City's federal immigration holding cells, where detainees, including Joan Paul Alcivar De La Cruz, face overcrowding, limited food, and inadequate medical care. His wife, Samara, expresses concern for his safety amid reports of mistreatment, highlighting the emotional toll of his detention and her miscarriage attributed to the stress. Want More Context? 🔎

House Republicans advanced a measure to rename the Kennedy Center's opera house after Melania Trump, citing her role as honorary chair of the board. The proposal, included in a funding bill for the Interior Department, faces criticism from Democrats and may struggle to pass the Senate, as it reflects President Trump's efforts to reshape the cultural institution's leadership and direction. Want More Context? 🔎