News

Special Counsel dismisses federal cases against Trump

Special Counsel dismisses federal prosecutions of Trump, citing policy against prosecuting sitting presidents; state-level cases pending.

Published

1 year ago

November 26, 2024

ticker NEWS

Special Counsel Jack Smith has moved to dismiss federal prosecutions of former President Trump, citing a longstanding Justice Department policy against prosecuting a sitting president.

Smith emphasized that this prohibition is absolute and independent from the nature of the alleged crimes or the strength of government evidence.

Earlier this year, a judge dismissed a case involving classified documents, ruling that Smith’s appointment was unlawful.

Although Smith’s office appealed this decision, it has now withdrawn this appeal.

A representative for Trump characterised Smith’s dismissal as a significant win for the rule of law, marking an end to a controversial period in U.S. history.

Smith was appointed special counsel in November 2022, shortly after Trump’s announcement for a presidential run. With the elections completed, Smith’s team is working to conclude the federal cases before he is expected to resign.

State felonies

While federal cases are dismissed, two state-level prosecutions are still pending. In New York, Trump was convicted of 34 state felonies related to hush money payments, but sentencing has been postponed as he seeks to overturn the conviction.

In Georgia, an election-interference case is also facing challenges, having been stalled due to attempts to disqualify the district attorney and the implications of Trump’s presidential election.

Both cases could potentially falter following Smith’s recent actions.

News

Man shot dead after breaching security at Mar a Lago

Man in 20s dies after breaching Mar-a-Lago, armed; Secret Service opened fire, citing no immediate danger inside.

Published

3 hours ago

February 23, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Man in 20s dies after breaching Mar-a-Lago, armed; Secret Service opened fire, citing no immediate danger inside.

A man in his early 20s has been shot and killed after breaching the secure perimeter at President Trump’s Mar a Lago residence in Florida, according to the Secret Service. Officials say the president and first lady Melania Trump were in Washington DC at the time of the incident.

Authorities report the man was armed with a shotgun and a petrol canister when he approached the north gate. He was confronted by a sheriff’s deputy and two Secret Service agents who ordered him to drop the items before the situation rapidly escalated.

After putting down the petrol can, the man allegedly pointed the shotgun at officers, who then opened fire. Law enforcement says there was no immediate danger to anyone inside the property.

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News

Iran signals nuclear concessions as U.S. talks intensify

Iran may concede on its nuclear program for US recognition and sanctions relief, considering uranium exports and oil sector investments.

Published

3 hours ago

February 23, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Iran may concede on its nuclear program for US recognition and sanctions relief, considering uranium exports and oil sector investments.

Iran is signalling it’s prepared to make concessions on its nuclear programme in exchange for U.S. recognition and sanctions relief, as fresh talks between Iran and the United States reveal deep divisions but renewed diplomatic momentum.

Tehran is reportedly considering sending its highly enriched uranium abroad and even forming a regional enrichment consortium to keep negotiations alive and avoid military escalation. Officials say an interim agreement could still be within reach despite the sticking points.

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News

UK police seek former aides’ insights on Prince Andrew

UK police contact ex-protection officers of Prince Andrew amid misconduct investigation linked to Jeffrey Epstein allegations

Published

2 days ago

February 21, 2026

Ahron Young

UK police contact ex-protection officers of Prince Andrew amid misconduct investigation linked to Jeffrey Epstein allegations

In Short:
– Police seek former protection officers of Prince Andrew for info on alleged Epstein-related offences.
– Authorities consider removing Mountbatten-Windsor from royal succession after investigation conclusions.

British police are reaching out to former protection officers of Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor following his recent arrest related to allegations of misconduct in a public office.

The police have urged anyone with information about potential sex offences connected to Jeffrey Epstein to come forward.Authorities are considering legislative measures to remove Mountbatten-Windsor from the royal succession line once the investigation concludes. Any changes would require consultation with other realms where King Charles is head of state.

The recent allegations stem from claims that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential government documents with Epstein during his time as a trade envoy. The London Metropolitan Police is now identifying former officers who may assist in the ongoing investigation and has encouraged them to share any pertinent information.

Mountbatten-Windsor has denied wrongdoing in the Epstein matter.

In 2022, he settled a civil lawsuit filed in the U.S. by Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse. Reports indicated he paid her approximately £12 million, a claim he denies.

Police Investigation

London authorities are reassessing previous decisions not to pursue criminal investigations related to Epstein’s activities.

Recent document releases from the U.S. government have prompted police to explore allegations of human trafficking involving Epstein at UK airports.

Police have been actively searching Mountbatten-Windsor’s residences as part of their investigation. His arrest marks an unprecedented event in modern royal history, raising significant public interest and concern in various countries.