Why are they in the news and could I be prosecuted for using one? – The Irish Times

Lin Lawler, owner of Grange Farmhouse in Hainford, Norfolk, is facing financial ruin due to a £24,010 energy bill from SmartestEnergy for a property she rents out only 100 days a year. Despite evidence of a faulty meter, the company demands repayment at £2,022 weekly and has threatened to cut off her power, prompting support from local MP Jerome Mayhew and a renewed investigation by the Energy Ombudsman. Need More Context? 🔎

Ashleigh Marsh, a 26-year-old mother of two, faced court after assaulting a police officer while experiencing a mental health crisis fueled by delusions that the officers were trying to kidnap and murder her. She received a conditional discharge for 12 months and was ordered to pay costs, with her defense highlighting her struggles with her eldest daughter's severe learning disabilities and her recent mental health decline. Need More Context? 🔎

Labour MP Kim Leadbeater's Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill has passed a crucial vote in the House of Commons, advancing towards potential legalization of assisted dying for terminally ill adults in England and Wales. With 314 MPs in favor, the bill includes strict eligibility criteria and aims to provide compassionate choices for those suffering from untreatable conditions. Need More Context? 🔎

Harry Gilbertson, who fatally stabbed 12-year-old Ava White in Liverpool on November 25, 2021, can now be named as he turns 18; he was sentenced to 13 years for her murder. Ava's mother, Leeann White, expressed anger over Gilbertson's apparent lack of remorse and the protections afforded to him, while she continues to honor her daughter's legacy through advocacy efforts. Need More Context? 🔎

Three men—Kevin Horvath, Ivan Turtak, and Ernest Gunar Junior—were found guilty of repeatedly raping a 12-year-old girl after luring her from an Asda car park in Dover, where she was given drugs and threatened. The abuse lasted three days until she escaped and flagged down police, leading to the men’s conviction for their heinous crimes against her. Need More Context? 🔎

Dozens of children were injured at the Miriam Makeba School in Berlin after tear gas was released inside the building, leading to the evacuation of approximately 400 students. A total of 34 pupils experienced symptoms such as shortness of breath and eye irritation, but none required hospitalization; an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident. Need More Context? 🔎