NBC 5 Investigates how a simple ‘twist of lemon’ ended up as a federal case in a Chicago courtroom. And we found scores of other cases like it.

Ghislaine Maxwell, convicted co-conspirator of Jeffrey Epstein, claimed in a DOJ interview that there was no client list or blackmail scheme related to Epstein's sex trafficking, asserting she witnessed no illegal acts by high-profile associates like Donald Trump or Bill Clinton. Despite her conviction for aiding in Epstein's crimes, Maxwell maintained her innocence and argued she was wrongly accused. Want More Context? 🔎

Donald Trump is fulfilling his campaign promise of retribution by targeting critics and political opponents, including former national security adviser John Bolton and various Democrats, while using government powers to intimidate. His administration has sparked concerns over unprecedented authority, deploying military forces in cities and pursuing investigations against those who challenged him, reflecting a consolidation of power that alarms many. Want More Context? 🔎

As the Trump administration increases troop deployments in cities like Washington, D.C., local Democratic leaders are resisting, asserting their autonomy and criticizing the federal government's tactics as divisive. Mayor Michelle Wu of Boston condemned the administration's actions as a means to distract from its failures and warned against undermining city laws, particularly those protecting undocumented migrants. Want More Context? 🔎

Former NBA star Shawn Kemp was sentenced to 30 days of electronic home monitoring for shooting at two men in a mall parking lot, following a plea agreement for an assault charge. He must also complete a year of supervision and 240 hours of community service, with the judge citing self-defense in the case, which stemmed from the theft of Kemp's belongings. Want More Context? 🔎

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, recently released from federal custody after being wrongfully deported to a high-security prison in El Salvador, faces potential deportation to Uganda within 72 hours. Abrego, who has a protective order against deportation to El Salvador due to gang violence, was reunited with his family after nearly six months apart. Want More Context? 🔎

The Trump administration has chosen not to defend a grant program for Hispanic-Serving Institutions, deeming it unconstitutional based on a lawsuit led by Tennessee and the group Students for Fair Admissions. This program, created to support colleges with significant Hispanic enrollment, faces challenges following a Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action, raising concerns among educational institutions about funding equity. Want More Context? 🔎