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Friday, December 22, 2023

Report Reveals Kansas Agency Investigated Family of Girl 5 Times Before Her Tragic Death


 Report Reveals Kansas Agency Investigated Family of Girl 5 Times Before Her Tragic Death

Child welfare authorities investigated the family of a 5-year-old Kansas girl, Zoey Felix, five times in the 13 months preceding her tragic rape and murder, as detailed in a report released on Tuesday. Despite allegations of neglect and drug use by her mother, authorities were unable to confirm these claims, and the family consistently declined to offer assistance.

5-year-old Kansas girl Raped and Killed at Homeless Campsite

The State Department of Children and Families report revealed that, in one instance, the agency verified the mother's failure to properly supervise Zoey but placed the girl with her father, deeming no safety concerns. Subsequent allegations in late August regarding drug use and lack of utilities in the home resulted in seven unsuccessful attempts by child welfare officials to contact the family over the next month.

Tragically, Zoey died on Oct. 2 at a gas station where fire crews were unable to resuscitate her. Neighbors believe Zoey and her father had been camping in a grove of trees on a nearby vacant lot. Mickel Cherry, a 25-year-old homeless man, faces charges of first-degree murder, rape, and capital murder in connection with Zoey's death. The circumstances of Zoey's demise have not been disclosed by authorities.

Governor Laura Kelly expressed her dismay at Zoey Felix's "unacceptable tragedy" and announced plans to advocate for legislation expediting information release in cases of child abuse or neglect-related deaths. The current practice involves delayed summaries from the Department of Children and Families, with full case reports released after the completion of prosecution, often taking over a year.

An information vacuum in Zoey's case persisted as a judge sealed the arrest affidavit supporting criminal charges against Cherry, citing concerns about jeopardizing witness safety and potential evidence destruction.

Neighbors had previously reported concerns about Zoey's well-being, describing her as wandering the neighborhood in a distressed state. The summary from the Department of Children and Families indicated that the first tip about Zoey was received on Sept. 8, 2022, alleging poor home conditions and possible drug use in the presence of a child. Although the mother tested negative for drugs, the agency offered help, which the family declined.

The summary further detailed incidents, including an unsupervised child complaint in November 2002, an arrest of Zoey's mother for driving under the influence with Zoey in the car, and subsequent investigations that led to offers of help being declined by the family. Despite repeated attempts to contact the family in September after a complaint about drug use and lack of utilities, authorities were unsuccessful. Concurrently, police visits to the home did not locate Zoey, as her father claimed she wasn't living there.

Following Zoey's tragic death, the Department for Children and Families has pledged to launch a thorough investigation, opening another inquiry in response to the circumstances surrounding Zoey's demise.


In Other SMH America News

Laura Barajas of San Jose, Calif., lost her limbs after eating contaminated fish. Vibrio vulnificus is commonly called a “flesh-eating bacteria” as it can cause necrotizing fasciitis, according to the CDC, which is “a severe infection in which the flesh around an open wound dies.”

Thursday, December 21, 2023

FBI Discovers 40 Human Skulls and Spinal Cords Used as 'Decorations' in Kentucky Home Raid


FBI Discovers 40 Human Skulls and Spinal Cords Used as 'Decorations' in Kentucky Home Raid 

On Tuesday, a Kentucky resident named James Nott was taken into custody following an FBI operation that uncovered numerous human remains and skulls repurposed as macabre decorations throughout his residence, authorities disclosed.

40 Human Skulls, Spinal Cords, and More Found Inside Kentucky Man's Home

The investigation into James Nott, a 40-year-old from Mt. Washington, Kentucky, was initiated by the FBI in connection with a probe into firearms and the trafficking of human remains. Upon approaching Nott's home on Tuesday, law enforcement officials inquired about other occupants, to which he disturbingly responded, "Only my dead friends."

Reports from WDRB revealed that the FBI found approximately 40 human skulls, spinal cords, femurs, and hip bones within Nott's residence. Shockingly, the skulls were utilized as ornamental pieces around his furniture and home, with one even adorned with a head scarf and another discovered in Nott's bed.

Aside from the human remains, authorities recovered an AK-47 rifle, a .38 revolver, and ammunition from Nott's residence. Additionally, WLKY, a local news outlet, reported the discovery of black powder primers, electric blasting caps, a detonation cord, and inert grenade components. The FBI disclosed that Nott had advertised the sale of remains on his public Facebook page the previous month. Investigations further revealed Nott's prior communication with an individual in Pennsylvania who possessed human organs and had affiliations with others engaged in selling human remains.

Among those connected to this network was Cecil Lodge, a morgue manager associated with the Harvard Medical School Anatomical Gift Program. Lodge, too, was reportedly exploiting Facebook for the illicit trade of stolen remains. The FBI's awareness of Lodge stemmed from information provided by a Pennsylvania man, who divulged details about a network involved in the sale and transportation of human remains.

James Nott appeared before the Western District of Kentucky on Tuesday for his initial hearing and underwent a detention hearing on Wednesday. Presently, the sole charge stemming from this investigation is possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, which could lead to a maximum sentence of 10 years if Nott is convicted. The case is under joint investigation by the FBI and the Mt. Washington Police Department.


In Other SMH America News

A Florida mother killed her two children and then herself in an apparent murder-suicide after losing a child custody battle with her ex.

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Masked Teens Board School Bus, Attempt to Shoot 14-Year-Old Boy's Head, and Assault Him After Gun Malfunctions


Masked Teens Board School Bus, Attempt to Shoot 14-Year-Old Boy's Head, and Assault Him After Gun Malfunctions 

Three masked teenagers boarded a Maryland school bus on Monday afternoon, singling out a 14-year-old boy who was the sole remaining student on the bus, according to WJLA.

3 Maryland Teens Jump On School Bus And Tried To Kill Student; Despite Shooting 3 Times, Gun Failed

One of the masked individuals pointed a gun at the boy and attempted to fire three times. Remarkably, the gun failed to discharge on all three attempts, and the police later discovered three live rounds on the Prince George's County bus.

Martin Diggs, the head of the bus drivers' union, characterized the incident as a blatant attempted murder, stating, "They pulled the trigger three times, but for some reason, by the grace of God, the gun didn't go off and bullets flew out of the gun."

The attack occurred late Monday afternoon on a school bus transporting students from the Prince George's County Alternative Middle School in Suitland. Multiple sources have confirmed that the bus's onboard video system recorded the entire attack, including a close-range attempt to shoot the middle school student in the head. When the gun failed to fire after three attempts, the assailants physically assaulted the 14-year-old boy. Once the attackers fled, the bus driver moved the vehicle to a secure location.

"We are outraged as a district. Horrified that this incident did occur," expressed Charoscar Coleman, Associate Superintendent of Prince George's County Public Schools. Coleman urged students, faculty, families, and staff to remain vigilant and report any brewing problems, emphasizing the priority of maintaining a safe environment for students during school hours and transportation.

The head of the drivers' union called for increased security measures, stating that the driver and aide feared for their lives. The Prince George's County Police Department is actively seeking the attackers. WJLA has requested the school bus video, but release has been denied at this time. The extent of the 14-year-old victim's injuries has not been disclosed.


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Over the phone, Jarret told FOX 11 News he was a victim of entrapment. When asked why he sent sexual messages to a 14-year-old girl, Jarret said she was the one sending the explicit messages. He added that he planned to meet the girl in person to tell her to stop texting and "let her off easy."

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Prisoner Creates Tunnel Through Wall, Allegedly Stabs Inmate in Adjacent Cell, According to Prison Authorities


Prisoner Creates Tunnel Through Wall, Allegedly Stabs Inmate in Adjacent Cell, According to Prison Authorities 

In Fulton County, Georgia, a prisoner took extreme measures to target a fellow inmate in a neighboring cell, as reported by law enforcement officials. Kavian Thomas, an inmate at Rice Street jail, reportedly created a hole in a shower stall wall on May 17, allowing him access to an adjacent cell block. Subsequently, Thomas carried out an assault on Derondney Russell, stabbing him multiple times, according to a press release from the Fulton County Sheriff's Office on Thursday.

Inmate Digs Through His Cell Room Wall to Stab Another Inmate In Neighboring Cell

Russell suffered "superficial stab wounds to his upper body" and received medical treatment within the jail's medical unit for his injuries. Following the attack, authorities conducted a thorough inspection of both cells, revealing the presence of several weapons, some of which were fashioned "from parts of the dilapidated building infrastructure," as mentioned in the press release.

Interim Fulton County Jail commander Curtis Clark emphasized the challenges posed by the deteriorating condition of the facility, stating, "This jail has outlived its useful life." Clark highlighted the difficulty in ensuring a secure environment for both staff and inmates due to the aging infrastructure.

The sheriff's office indicated that Kavian Thomas would face additional criminal charges related to the assault. Thomas had previously been charged with offenses such as theft of stolen property, possession/transport of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of marijuana, according to court records.


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A Nevada rapper was arrested on murder charges after implicating himself in a music video by sharing details of the crime that only a killer could have known, police said.

Teenager, 15, Faces Murder and Terrorism Charges in Connection with Oxford High School Shooting


 Teenager, 15, Faces Murder and Terrorism Charges in Connection with Oxford High School Shooting

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald has announced charges in connection with the tragic events at Oxford High School on Tuesday.

Fifteen-year-old Ethan Crumbley is facing severe charges, including one count of terrorism causing death, four counts of first-degree murder, seven counts of assault with intent to murder, and 12 counts of possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony. McDonald emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be brought based on the evolving findings.

15-Year-Old School Shooting Suspect Charged as an Adult with Terrorism First-Degree Murder

Crumbley is being charged as an adult, and during his arraignment on Wednesday, he stood mute, with a not-guilty plea entered on his behalf. Bond was denied, and he was ordered to be transferred from Children's Village to the Oakland County Jail. If convicted on all charges, Crumbley could face life in prison.

McDonald revealed that evidence suggests this was not an impulsive act, leading to the inclusion of a terrorism charge in connection with the school shooting. The prosecutor also mentioned that charges against both parents are under consideration.

The tragic incident claimed the lives of Tate Myre, 16, Hana St. Juliana, 14, and Madisyn Baldwin, 17, with 17-year-old Justin Shilling succumbing to his injuries on Wednesday afternoon. The shooter, a 15-year-old sophomore, reportedly used a 9mm pistol during the attack in the south end of the school.

Students recounted hearing an ALICE warning over the intercom following the initial gunshots. ALICE, an acronym for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate, is a training program designed for schools. Law enforcement responded swiftly to the incident, with the suspected shooter apprehended while still possessing seven rounds of ammunition. Over 30 shell casings were later recovered by the police.

Seven other victims sustained injuries, with varying conditions. Notably, a 14-year-old female is in critical condition with gunshot wounds to the chest and neck, undergoing surgery, and is currently on a ventilator. Another 17-year-old female is also in critical condition. Other victims range from serious to stable conditions.

The Oxford Community Schools District released a statement expressing profound grief over the loss of lives and injuries. The district emphasized the priority of student and staff safety and participation in the ongoing investigation. The focus remains on providing care and support to the affected individuals, while the district urges respect for the privacy of grieving families.


In Other SMH America News

A New Mexico family rushing to try and save their dog’s life was stopped and held at gunpoint by the cops. KRQE Investigates obtained the police videos from a traffic stop that still has a family in disbelief.

Northern California Man Arrested in Connection with Decapitation of Grandmother in Santa Rosa Residence


Northern California Man Arrested in Connection with Decapitation of Grandmother in Santa Rosa Residence 

Police have apprehended and charged a 23-year-old man in Northern California in connection with the decapitation murder of his 64-year-old grandmother. Luis Aroyo-Lopez was identified as the prime suspect in what authorities described as a "targeted attack" in Santa Rosa. The gruesome incident unfolded when officers responded to a possible homicide report at the victim's residence, discovering her headless body.

Following the discovery, investigators determined that Aroyo-Lopez had likely fled the scene on foot with his grandmother's head in his possession. A two-day manhunt ensued, involving U.S. Marshals to locate the suspect. The search concluded when a San Francisco Police Department officer recognized Aroyo-Lopez from wanted person bulletins at a downtown transit station, leading to his arrest.

Upon taking Aroyo-Lopez into custody, Santa Rosa Police transferred him to the Sonoma County Main Adult Detention Facility. Authorities also reported seizing multiple weapons at the Santa Rosa residence, which will undergo examination to determine if any were used in the homicide.

The victim's head was discovered near Santa Rosa Creek on Saturday evening and was subsequently brought to the Sonoma County Coroner's Office for identification. Aroyo-Lopez had recently been released from a California prison where he served time for unrelated charges of assault with a deadly weapon and weapons possession. In addition to the murder charge, he faces allegations of violating the terms of his post-release control and has been denied bail. Aroyo-Lopez is currently in custody awaiting court resolution of his case.


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It was starting to pay off. She had nearly 129,000 followers and was earning an income through brand promotions - with parties and product launch events up and down the country.

Monday, December 18, 2023

Disturbing Footage Captures Police Rescuing Malnourished and Abused Children Confined in Cages in Las Vegas Residence


Disturbing Footage Captures Police Rescuing Malnourished and Abused Children Confined in Cages in Las Vegas Residence 

A disturbing video has surfaced, revealing the rescue efforts of Las Vegas police as they intervened to save young children allegedly subjected to abuse, starvation, and confinement in cages by their parents.

According to court transcripts obtained by TV station 8NewsNow, one of the older children was brutally beaten to the point where the father, Travis Doss, expressed concerns to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police that the 11-year-old might already be deceased.

Sickening video shows cops rescue starved, beaten kids locked in cages from Las Vegas horror house 

The child reported being forced to share meager food supplies with siblings, going days without eating. A detective involved in the case recalled the child's account, stating that he stole discarded food, arguing that it wasn't theft if the items were from the trash. The child expressed constant hunger, indicating that he had to share a single large fry from McDonald's with all six siblings. The detective revealed that the child claimed to be confined in a cage "all day, every day."

Doss, the father of seven children, has been indicted on 40 charges, including child abuse, according to court records. The distressing bodycam footage from the police shows officers entering a cramped, one-bedroom apartment where they discovered six children aged 2 to 11, left alone with two dogs. Shockingly, two of the children, the 11-year-old boy and his 9-year-old brother, were found crouched inside a padlocked cage typically used for pets.

The 11-year-old exhibited severe injuries, including swollen-shut black eyes, numerous marks, bruises, and emaciation. The child disclosed instances of being beaten with cords, belts, and a pan by his father. Amanda Stamper, the biological mother of the 2-year-old child and stepmother to the others, also faces seven counts of child abuse, as per the indictment.

The LVMPD bodycam footage portrayed a challenging situation, with the children initially refusing to open the door for 15 minutes, following instructions not to admit strangers. After a maintenance worker convinced one of the children to open the door, the police discovered the children in the apartment with dogs.

The video captures the 11-year-old describing how his father had assaulted him inside the cage. Officers can be heard offering reassurance to the children, emphasizing that they are not at fault, and promising to provide assistance. Doss allegedly claimed he had "no choice" when questioned about confining the children in cages.

Contrary to the disturbing circumstances revealed in the footage, Doss, a rapper known as "Trap Montana," showcased a glamorous lifestyle on his Instagram, featuring images of him in exotic cars, mansions, and casinos on the Las Vegas Strip. Posts from September 2020 depicted Doss enjoying a beach day with his children, while another from June 2019 showed him fishing with four of the children and Stamper. Stamper's public defender argued that she was also a victim of Doss' abuse, pointing to her Instagram posts as potential evidence of her vulnerability to serious mistreatment if she had taken any action against Doss.


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The way a neighbor in Queens handled a noise complaint against the family that lives on the other side of his fence is now the subject of a lawsuit that alleges racist acts.

Texas Teacher Dismissed After Transforming Middle School Classroom Into Student 'Fight Ring'


Texas Teacher Dismissed After Transforming Middle School Classroom Into Student 'Fight Ring' 

A Texas substitute teacher is facing investigation and immediate termination after allegedly transforming her classroom into a fighting arena, urging students as young as 12 to engage in physical altercations.

Texas Teacher Charged After Turning Classroom Into A Fighting Ring

Natally Garcia, 24, was swiftly dismissed from her position at Kimbrough Middle School in Mesquite on Wednesday, following the incident captured in shocking footage. Desks were arranged in a circular pattern to create a makeshift "fight ring," where 12- and 13-year-old students participated in physical confrontations, resulting in some sustaining injuries.

The Mesquite Independent School District (ISD) stated, "Her actions are appalling and intolerable." The district disclosed that Garcia not only established rules for the fights but also directed a student to keep watch at the door during the incidents.

Video evidence reveals Garcia instructing the class that she does not want the activities documented, threatening to confiscate cell phones if students were recording. At least four students can be seen engaged in fights, with Garcia audibly setting a timer for the bouts.

Beatriz Martinez, whose daughter recorded the incident, expressed her shock, stating, "I was devastated. I was like, I couldn’t watch the full video. I had to stop it multiple times because I didn’t think it was real. I was like, this must be a prank. This is not real."

Martinez revealed that her daughter's class had experienced Garcia's teaching twice before without incident. Although her daughter was pushed to participate in the impromptu fight club, the class concluded before the situation escalated.

Mesquite ISD disclosed that Garcia was hired on March 6 but was promptly fired after the incident, with no eligibility for rehire. The district's investigation revealed that the substitute teacher actively encouraged students to fight, established rules for the brawls, and assigned a student to monitor the classroom door during the altercations. The school district expressed deep concern over the behavior of an individual entrusted with student supervision and pledged to address the distress felt by the families of the affected students.


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Jamaicans do not have guaranteed access to their own beaches due to a colonial-era law that grants the British crown rights to the foreshore, but a grassroots organization called JaBBEM is working to fight for beach access rights.