SEN DICK DURBIN: Closing federal offices punishes everyday Americans

Today, federal prosecutors continued to present evidence in Diddy’s trial, showcasing text messages and testimony indicating his alleged orchestration of drug-fueled sexual encounters. The defense, led by attorney Marc Agnifilo, plans to forgo calling witnesses, focusing instead on presenting limited evidence as the prosecution nears the conclusion of its case. Need More Context? 🔎

A federal jury awarded $500,000 to the widow and estate of Metropolitan Police Officer Jeffrey Smith, who died by suicide after defending the U.S. Capitol during the January 6, 2021, riot. The jury found chiropractor David Walls-Kaufman liable for assaulting Smith, ordering him to pay $440,000 in damages, though a wrongful-death claim was dismissed by the judge. Need More Context? 🔎

Video footage has emerged of Vance Boelter, the suspect in the Minnesota lawmaker shootings, passionately speaking at a 2022 seminar in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, expressing excitement about his faith. Various organizations, including Global Minnesota and Minnesota Africans United, have clarified that Boelter was not affiliated with them and have condemned the violence surrounding the recent allegations against him. Need More Context? 🔎

In response to the attempted mass shooting at CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan, security expert Ken Alexandrow emphasizes the importance of creating a "first impressions ministry" to deter potential threats. His strategies include fostering vigilance among church members, utilizing observation techniques, and implementing training for safety ministries, which contributed to the quick neutralization of the armed gunman by church security. Need More Context? 🔎

President Trump is set to attend a NATO summit in Brussels, following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel. He aims to secure commitments from NATO allies to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, while addressing ongoing concerns about Russia's war on Ukraine and the recent Iranian missile strikes on a U.S. base in Qatar. Need More Context? 🔎

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? 🔎