James Gardener, Author at Ballot News

Louisville Jail Implements Life-Saving Measures to Address Overdoses and Deaths

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – In response to a surge in overdoses and deaths related to drug use, the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections has implemented new protocols and initiatives to address the issue. Over the past year, the jail has seen a significant increase in overdoses among inmates, prompting officials to take action to prevent further tragedies. The new efforts include providing medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction, as well as increasing access to mental health services …

Man violently attacks judge in Nevada courtroom during sentencing, caught on video.

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Video footage from inside a Nevada courtroom captured the shocking moment when a man launched himself at Clark County District Court Judge Mary Kay Halthus and violently attacked her on the bench during a sentencing hearing. The incident occurred just as Judge Halthus was preparing to hand down a sentence to Deobra Redden, a three-time felon facing charges of attempted battery with substantial bodily harm. Redden, 30, could be heard yelling …

10-Month-Old Boy in Critical Condition After Mother and Relative Killed in Tragic Shooting

CICERO, IL – A 10-month-old boy is fighting for his life after being shot during a double slaying in Cicero on Tuesday night. The baby’s mother and a relative were also killed in the incident. The child is currently in serious-to-critical condition at Comer Children’s Hospital, suffering from a gunshot wound. According to fire department spokesman Larry Langford, the baby’s injury is of a traumatic nature, indicating the severity of the situation. The tragic event …

Iran Vows ‘Harsh Response’ After Deadly Blasts at Soleimani Commemoration Ceremony

KERMAN, Iran – Iran experienced a tragic incident as two explosions rocked the southeastern city of Kerman during a ceremony to honor the death of top commander Qassem Soleimani, who was killed in 2020. The blasts resulted in nearly 100 deaths and over 200 injuries, leaving the country in shock and mourning. Iranian officials have labeled the incident as a “terrorist attack,” although no one has claimed responsibility for the explosions. The country’s supreme leader, …

Man Arrested in Connection with Pueblo’s First Homicide of 2024

PUEBLO, Colorado – The first homicide of 2024 in Pueblo, Colorado, was reported on New Year’s Day when Richard Armando Ybarra, 43, was shot and killed in the 1100 block of Berwind Avenue. The county coroner confirmed Ybarra’s cause of death as a gunshot wound. This incident marked the first homicide in Pueblo for the year 2024, with 56-year-old Ricky Gilbert Trujillo arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection to the shooting. Trujillo is …

Explosions at Iranian General’s Commemoration Leave Over 100 Dead

KERMAN, Iran – Two explosive incidents occurred in Kerman, Iran, targeting an event commemorating the killing of General Qassem Soleimani in a U.S. drone strike in 2020. The explosions, which took place minutes apart, resulted in the deaths of at least 103 people and left 141 others injured. The attacks came amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East due to Israel’s conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. No group has claimed responsibility for the …

Maryland Oral Surgeon Sentenced to 45 Years for Supplying Addictive Anesthesia Solutions to Girlfriend

GERMANTOWN, Maryland – An oral surgeon in Maryland has been sentenced to 45 years in prison for supplying his girlfriend with addictive anesthesia solutions, leading to her death. James Ryan, 50, formerly operated Evolution Oral Surgery in Germantown, and his girlfriend, Sarah Harris, died of a fatal overdose at the age of 25, weighing only 83 pounds. Ryan’s conviction of depraved-heart murder has earned him a sentence that far exceeds the state’s sentencing recommendations. The …

Butte Woman Facing Felony Animal Cruelty Charges Issued Bench Warrant After Missing Court Again

BUTTE, Mont. — A bench warrant without bond has been issued for Veronica Marie Lasell, 45, who is facing one misdemeanor and eight felony counts of cruelty to animals. Lasell failed to appear at two arraignments, prompting the warrant. She was expected to attend her arraignment on Wednesday afternoon before Silver Bow District Court Judge Robert Whelan but did not show up despite court records indicating she bonded out of jail the day prior. Lasell …

Maine Lawmakers Meet for New Legislative Session Amid Calls for Stronger Gun Safety Laws

AUGUSTA, Maine – Graceful moments of silence and moving tributes marked the return of Maine lawmakers to the State House for the new legislative session, the first session since the tragic Lewiston mass shooting. Before the Senate and House convened, a strong display of support for more stringent gun safety laws took place inside the State House, with hundreds of Mainers in attendance. The Maine Gun Safety Coalition distributed over 700 orange ribbons, which symbolize …

Houston Grand Jury Clears Man Who Shot and Killed Robber Inside Taqueria

HOUSTON, TEXAS – The decision of a grand jury in Texas not to charge a man who shot and killed a robber inside a taqueria has sparked debate and controversy. The man in question shot and killed Eric Eugene Washington, a 30-year-old who was robbing the residents inside the Houston taqueria. The incident was captured on video, showing Washington entering the establishment while brandishing what appeared to be a gun. The Harris County District Attorney’s …