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FBI Makes First Arrest from DOJ’s New Most Wanted Fraudsters List [WATCH]
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FBI Makes First Arrest from DOJ’s New Most Wanted Fraudsters List [WATCH]

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A Minnesota man accused of taking part in a multimillion-dollar COVID-era fraud scheme has become the first fugitive arrested from the FBI’s newly launched “Most Wanted Fraudsters” list, according to federal authorities, as reported by Fox News.

FBI Director Kash Patel announced Wednesday that Said Abdullahi Ereg, a former grocery and deli owner in Minneapolis, surrendered to federal authorities after being publicly identified on the list less than a week earlier.

Ereg, 47, is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering.

Federal authorities allege he participated in a scheme that fraudulently obtained more than $4.2 million from the Federal Child Nutrition Program during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to investigators, Ereg operated Evergreen Grocery and Deli in south Minneapolis under the sponsorship of the nonprofit Feeding Our Future.

Prosecutors allege the business falsely claimed to provide meals to thousands of children and then sought reimbursement from federal programs designed to help feed children during the pandemic.

Court documents allege that Evergreen Grocery and Deli claimed to have served more than 3,000 meals twice a day, seven days a week. Authorities contend those claims were fraudulent and enabled the business to collect millions of dollars in government funds.

Federal prosecutors further allege that Ereg laundered proceeds from the scheme through foreign accounts and used some of the money to support an extravagant lifestyle.

Patel described the arrest as a milestone in the FBI’s effort to pursue major fraud suspects nationwide.

“Today’s arrest is historic – the first ever arrest of a subject on our Most Wanted Fraudsters List released last week with the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud,” Patel said in a statement.

The FBI launched the “Most Wanted Fraudsters” list in partnership with the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. The initiative is designed to publicly identify fugitives accused of major fraud schemes and increase pressure on them to surrender or be captured.

Patel said the list was created specifically to target individuals accused of stealing taxpayer dollars through large-scale fraud operations.

“Led by Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we set up the historic, first ever ‘Most Wanted Fraudsters’ list for this exact purpose — to bring to justice the alleged worst of the worst who took advantage of American taxpayers and stole public funds,” Patel said.

He added that the initiative sends a message that “the days of Washington, D.C., turning a blind eye to fraud are over.”

In a separate post on X, Patel indicated that additional arrests could follow.

“This historic result is only the beginning — and let it be a message to any fraudster who takes advantage of America, this team will find you,” Patel said.

Federal officials said Ereg had been wanted on federal charges since 2024. According to the Justice Department, he contacted authorities through his attorney and expressed a willingness to return to the United States one day after the FBI unveiled the new fugitive list.

The case also involves Ereg’s wife, Najmo Ahmed, who worked at the business and reportedly received payroll payments directly from Feeding Our Future.

Federal officials said Ahmed pleaded guilty last year to money laundering charges and is scheduled to be sentenced later this month.

The arrest comes as the Trump administration continues to expand its anti-fraud efforts.

Earlier this year, the Justice Department established a National Fraud Enforcement Division to support President Donald Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, which is led by Vice President JD Vance.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has also highlighted the administration’s focus on fraud investigations as federal agencies pursue cases involving pandemic relief programs and other taxpayer-funded initiatives.

The FBI said the arrest marks the first successful apprehension tied directly to the new “Most Wanted Fraudsters” program, which officials say is intended to help locate and capture individuals accused of large-scale financial crimes across the country.

Mamdani Funnels $15 Million in Taxpayer Cash to Fund Trans Surgeries During Pride Spectacle [WATCH]
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Mamdani Funnels $15 Million in Taxpayer Cash to Fund Trans Surgeries During Pride Spectacle [WATCH]

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Zohran Mamdani announced that New York City will invest $15 million in taxpayer funds toward transgender medical procedures and related care over the next two years, while also pledging continued support for transgender and gender non-conforming residents during a Pride Month event held Tuesday evening in Manhattan, as reported by The Post Millennial.

The announcement came during a Pride gathering hosted by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani at Surrogates Court in Manhattan on June 10.

During remarks at the event, Mamdani highlighted what he described as his administration’s commitment to protecting transgender residents and expanding access to medical services.

“City Hall will also not back down in the face of federal attacks against trans New Yorkers. The threats will continue and so will our relentless protection of trans people across this city,” Mamdani said.

“As a first step, my administration has made a $15 million investment in gender affirming care over the next two years, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to ensure that trans and gender non-conforming New Yorkers can live with dignity, safety, and freedom they deserve.”

Mamdani had previously discussed the funding during a June 2 interview on WNYC’s Lehrer Show. During that appearance, he said the money would be used to help replace funding that had been lost.

The mayor said the city’s investment would “start to bridge the gap of the funding that has been stripped of this care.”

Questions remain about how the funding will be administered. Trans-identified male journalist Erin Reed noted that few public details have been released regarding the program.

According to Reed, “there are virtually no public details on what the $15 million funds, which agency controls it, which patients it serves, or when it will go into effect.”

The announcement comes as New York City prepares to open a city-run clinic that will serve trans-identified patients. Reports indicate the facility will provide services only to adults age 18 and older.

A spokesperson for the city’s health department told The Advocate that the clinic will offer several services, including “gender-affirming hormone therapy” at “no to low cost and regardless of immigration status.”

The issue was also discussed during a New York City Council budget hearing last week. City Health Commissioner Alister Martin addressed questions regarding future services and the city’s approach to federal policy concerns.

“We are committed to this issue and want to make sure we provide the services and resources for youth,” Martin said during Friday’s hearing.

He also explained why city officials have taken a cautious approach regarding certain programs.

“We don’t [want to] expose ourselves to clawbacks from the federal government, which disrupt the rest of the care that we can give,” Martin said.

The Pride event also featured remarks from Peppermint, a trans-identified male actor and former contestant on the television program RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Peppermint reflected on entering Pride Month amid ongoing national debates involving transgender issues.

“I was going into this Pride season not quite sure what Pride was going to be like with this country the way it is, treating our community the way it does. And I was like, I don’t know if I’m going to pull it together. But you know what? June 1st hit, and I’m like, ‘b*tch, we got to do this. We have to do this,” Peppermint said.

The performer also encouraged supporters to remain active despite political disagreements and public debate surrounding transgender policies.

“Regardless of the attacks, regardless of all the rhetoric and all of the lies and all of the misinformation, we are going to show them who we are as a community. We’re going to pull together, and we’re definitely going to show them how New York City does it.”

The $15 million commitment is expected to become part of the city’s broader healthcare and budget planning over the next two years as officials continue developing details on how the funding will be distributed and which programs will receive support.

Trump Warns Iran to Reach Peace Agreement or Face New U.S. Strikes: “We’ll Bomb the Sh*t Out of Them” [WATCH]
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Trump Warns Iran to Reach Peace Agreement or Face New U.S. Strikes: “We’ll Bomb the Sh*t Out of Them” [WATCH]

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President Donald Trump warned Iran to return to negotiations or face additional military action after U.S. forces launched a new round of strikes against targets inside the Islamic Republic on Wednesday evening, as reported by The New York Post.

According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the latest operation began at approximately 5:15 p.m. ET and was carried out under the direction of the president.

“U.S. Central Command [CENTCOM] forces began launching additional self-defense strikes today at 5:15 p.m. ET against multiple targets in Iran at the Commander in Chief’s direction,” the Tampa-based command said in a statement posted on X.

“The strikes are in response to Iran’s unwarranted and continued aggression.”

Initial reports did not provide details about specific targets, damage assessments, or casualties. However, President Trump later confirmed that American forces had conducted significant military operations across Iran.

“We’ve hit them hard tonight,” Trump told Fox News correspondent Trey Yingst during the operation.

When asked what would happen if Iran refused to reach an agreement with the United States, Trump responded:

“We’ll bomb the sh*t out of them tomorrow.”

The president also said he had spoken with senior Iranian officials from the Situation Room and claimed they urged him to halt the bombing campaign.

Trump stated that at least 49 Tomahawk missiles were launched during the strikes, while U.S. fighter aircraft delivered additional munitions against Iranian targets. He said the closest target was roughly 40 miles from Tehran.

Just after 9 p.m. ET, CENTCOM announced the mission had concluded.

The command said it had struck “Iranian military surveillance capabilities, communication systems, and air defense sites across Iran.”

“US Marine Corps, Air Force, and Navy assets fired precision munitions on Iranian targets that posed a threat to US forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters,” CENTCOM said.

The latest military action followed Iranian attacks against Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, all of which host American military personnel.

The strikes also came one day after an earlier U.S. operation that followed the reported downing of a U.S. Army helicopter over the Strait of Hormuz by an Iranian drone.

Earlier Wednesday, the U.S. military also took action against a vessel accused of transporting fuel from Iran in violation of an American blockade.

Capt. Tim Hawkins, a CENTCOM spokesman, said a U.S. aircraft fired “precision munitions” into the engine room of the Palau-flagged tanker M/T Settebello.

The action reportedly disabled the vessel, making it the eighth merchant ship rendered inoperable by U.S. forces in waters near Iran.

India’s foreign ministry reported that three Indian sailors were missing following the incident, while 21 others were rescued. The ministry’s statement did not reference either the U.S. military or the blockade.

Hawkins said American forces issued warnings before firing on the vessel.

Before the evening strikes began, Trump signaled that additional military action was imminent.

“We’re going to hit them again hard today,” the president told reporters at the White House.

He also continued pressing Tehran to agree to a peace arrangement that would include abandoning efforts to obtain a nuclear weapon.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the administration’s position while speaking to reporters in Florida.

“CENTCOM will be busy tonight because President Trump said we will be hitting Iran hard — and we will be,” Hegseth said.

Hegseth added that Iran still had an opportunity to reach an agreement with Washington.

“Iran has a chance to make a good deal, a great deal, to codify what they said they’ve been willing to do, and they haven’t been willing to do it,” he said.

“As President Trump said, they’ve been tap, tap, tapping [the US along on making a deal] … instead, they are going to have tap, tap, tap, bombs dropping on key facilities in Iran from the United States of America.”

Iran responded defiantly. Tehran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, told the U.N. Security Council, “Iran has never negotiated under threats and pressure and will never submit to pressure or question.”

Iran also declared the Strait of Hormuz closed to maritime traffic, including oil tankers and commercial vessels, according to the semi-official Fars News Agency.

The report said Tehran warned that “any traffic will be targeted” because of what it described as “continued acts of aggression by the criminal United States.”

Diplomatic efforts remained underway despite the escalation. Following consultations with U.S. officials, a Qatari delegation arrived in Tehran on Wednesday for talks, according to an official familiar with the visit.

A major obstacle remains Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. The United States wants Tehran to surrender the material, while Iranian officials continue to insist their nuclear program is peaceful.

Iran has also demanded sanctions relief and access to frozen assets before a final agreement is completed.

In a Truth Social post on Wednesday, Trump expressed frustration with the pace of negotiations.

“Iran was taking ‘too long to negotiate a deal’ and ‘now they will have to pay the price!!!’” The president wrote.

Iran has also maintained that any agreement ending the conflict must include an end to fighting involving Hezbollah and Israel, while Israel has continued military operations against the Lebanon-based group.

Air Canada Pilot Flew 900 Flights Over 16 Years Without Proper License Before Arrest [WATCH]
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Air Canada Pilot Flew 900 Flights Over 16 Years Without Proper License Before Arrest [WATCH]

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A longtime Air Canada pilot has been arrested and charged with fraud after Canadian authorities alleged he spent years flying large commercial aircraft without obtaining the required certification for the position he held, as reported by The Gateway Pundit.

Geoffrey Wall, 59, of Barrie, Ontario, faces multiple criminal charges following an investigation by Peel Regional Police and Transport Canada into his licensing credentials.

According to police, Wall worked as an airline captain between 2009 and 2025 and allegedly flew more than 900 domestic and international flights without possessing the airline transport pilot license required to command large commercial passenger aircraft.

Authorities announced the charges after an investigation that began earlier this year uncovered what investigators described as irregularities in documentation submitted during regulatory reviews.

Peel Regional Police allege Wall misrepresented his qualifications to both Air Canada and aviation regulators over an extended period.

“This pilot had a 27-year career, and we are alleging that since 2009 has been flying for years, misrepresenting himself and his credentials to his employer and regulatory officials using fraudulent licensing documents,” Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich said.

“He rose to the position of pilot in command, where for almost 17 years he flew Boeing 767s, 777s, and 787s,” Milinovich added.

Police said Wall has been charged with fraud over $5,000, public mischief, two counts of uttering forged documents, and three counts of possession of counterfeit mark.

Investigators stated that the case came to light after Transport Canada reviewed the credentials and conduct of a commercial airline captain.

During a routine operational evaluation conducted at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, officials reportedly detected anomalies in documentation submitted by Wall.

That discovery ultimately triggered a broader review of his qualifications and employment history.

According to police, the investigation formally began in January after regulators referred the matter for further examination.

Air Canada acknowledged that Wall possessed a valid commercial pilot license but stated that he allegedly did not hold the airline transport pilot license required for promotion to captain.

The airline said it removed Wall from active duty immediately after concerns regarding his credentials surfaced.

Air Canada also stated that it voluntarily reported the matter to Transport Canada once the licensing issue was discovered.

The company confirmed that Wall is no longer employed by the airline.

Officials have not alleged that Wall was incapable of operating aircraft or that any specific flight incidents resulted from the licensing issue.

Instead, investigators have focused on whether he knowingly used fraudulent documentation to obtain and maintain positions that required qualifications he allegedly did not possess.

Milinovich compared the situation to a medical professional practicing outside the scope of his certification.

“This is very similar to a doctor that is licensed to practice family medicine, but is doing brain surgery in their office,” he said.

The allegations have drawn significant attention because of the length of time involved and the number of flights authorities say Wall operated during his tenure as a captain.

According to investigators, the alleged conduct spanned nearly 17 years and involved aircraft commonly used on both domestic and international routes, including Boeing 767, 777, and 787 passenger jets.

The criminal case now moves into the Canadian court system, where prosecutors will attempt to prove the allegations outlined by police. Wall has been charged but has not been convicted, and the allegations remain subject to judicial review.

The case has also prompted renewed scrutiny of credential verification procedures within commercial aviation, as regulators and airlines examine how the alleged discrepancies went undetected for so many years.

Jasmine Crockett Melts Down in Racist Tirade, Slams White Men, and Mocks Dr. Alveda King [WATCH]
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Jasmine Crockett Melts Down in Racist Tirade, Slams White Men, and Mocks Dr. Alveda King [WATCH]

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A House Judiciary Committee hearing examining the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and its influence on federal policy turned contentious Tuesday when Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, sharply criticized Republicans on the panel and questioned the credibility of one of the hearing’s witnesses, Dr. Alveda King, as reported by The Gateway Pundit.

The hearing focused on allegations surrounding the SPLC and its designation of organizations it considers extremist or hate groups. Republicans on the committee used the session to examine the organization’s role in public policy debates and its interactions with government agencies.

During her allotted speaking time, Crockett argued that Republicans were not positioned to lecture minority communities about issues involving race and discrimination.

She pointed to the makeup of the committee and accused Republicans of failing to connect with voters of color.

“The vast majority of them are White men,” Crockett said while addressing the Republican side of the committee.

“White men are lecturing people of color because the vast majority, actually, any semblance of diversity comes from this side of the aisle,” she continued.

“You want to tell people of color who is fighting for who? People of color do not feel comfortable or welcomed within your party.”

Crockett then turned her attention to Dr. Alveda King, a niece of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., who appeared as a witness during the hearing.

“That’s why you have to parade someone who has the name Dr. King attached to them, so that people can be confused,” Crockett said.

“I have been reading the comments online, and people are like, ‘Who is this Dr. King?’ because you want them to believe that somehow she espouses who Dr. King was.”

Crockett also referenced Martin Luther King III and Dr. Bernice King, arguing that they had a closer connection to the late civil rights leader’s teachings.

During her remarks, Crockett quoted passages from Martin Luther King Jr.’s writings and speeches while discussing racism and discrimination.

She also cited a definition of a hate group and argued that some organizations discussed during the hearing fit that description.

The Texas congresswoman additionally referenced past comments made by Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk while discussing the SPLC’s treatment of conservative organizations.

The hearing became more emotional after Crockett concluded her remarks and left the room before Alveda King was given an opportunity to respond.

When recognized, King directly addressed Crockett’s comments and defended both her family background and her role as a representative of the King family legacy.

“Congresswoman, I am a bit emotional. I’m going to watch what I say, but it seems as though you have suggested that I am a bastard to the King family legacy,” King said.

“I am legitimately the daughter of Reverend Alfred Daniel Williams King and Dr. Naomi Ruth Barber King. We are a family who loves God, and I love you,” she added.

The exchange quickly became one of the most talked-about moments from the hearing, drawing significant attention online from both supporters and critics of the congresswoman.

Crockett, who recently lost her Democratic primary campaign for the U.S. Senate in Texas, is preparing to leave Congress at the end of her current term.

The broader hearing focused on the SPLC, its classifications of organizations, and ongoing disputes over whether certain conservative groups have been unfairly targeted.

Republicans and Democrats on the committee remained sharply divided throughout the proceedings, with both sides arguing over how hate groups should be defined and whether political ideology has influenced federal enforcement decisions.

The confrontation between Crockett and King underscored those divisions and ensured that the hearing’s most memorable moment came not from testimony about the SPLC itself, but from a direct clash between a member of Congress and a witness appearing before the committee.

Miracle on Everest as Missing Sherpa Found Crawling Toward Base Camp After Week Alone in Deadly Cold [WATCH]
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Miracle on Everest as Missing Sherpa Found Crawling Toward Base Camp After Week Alone in Deadly Cold [WATCH]

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A Sherpa guide who disappeared on Mount Everest and was presumed dead by many, including members of his own family, was found alive nearly a week later, crawling through one of the mountain’s most dangerous sections, as reported by Fox News.

Dawa Sherpa, 52, vanished around May 29 while descending from Everest after turning back short of the summit with a Polish climber he had been guiding.

The client safely reached base camp, but Dawa never arrived, prompting concerns that he had become another casualty on the world’s highest mountain.

As search efforts failed to locate him in the days that followed, family members began funeral rites, believing he had died on Everest.

Then came an unexpected development.

On the morning of June 4, a cleanup crew from the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee discovered Dawa alive in the Khumbu Icefall, a hazardous stretch of Everest located above base camp.

The area is known for shifting ice formations, deep crevasses, and unstable conditions that make it one of the most dangerous parts of the mountain.

Pemba Sherpa of 8K Expeditions confirmed to The Associated Press that the missing guide was found crawling through the icefall.

Rescuers immediately moved him to safety, provided food and water, and arranged for a helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu. He was transported to a hospital where his wife and daughter were waiting.

By the time Dawa arrived at the medical facility, his family had already accepted the possibility that he would never return home.

His daughter, Mendo Lhamu Sherpa, told The Associated Press that relatives were conducting funeral rituals when word arrived that he had been found alive.

“When we first heard about it (the rescue), we could not be sure if that person was indeed our father,” she said. “So to be certain, we asked for photos to be sent, and then only we were sure and very happy.”

His wife, Damu Sherpa, said the family first learned of the rescue through local news reports and calls from acquaintances.

“We first heard that he was still alive on the local news and from a person we know who called with the news that … he is being brought down,” she said.

Medical personnel reported that Dawa was suffering from frostbite and other complications associated with prolonged exposure to extreme conditions. However, family members said he was conscious and able to communicate.

“He recognized me … is good and speaks,” his daughter told Reuters. “We are happy.”

The circumstances surrounding Dawa’s survival remain unclear. According to reports, he spent nearly a week alone on Everest without food, water, or supplemental oxygen.

In a statement posted on social media, Nepal Mount Everest hiking company described the survival story as extraordinary.

“Dawa survived alone for nearly a week without food, water, or supplemental oxygen navigating the treacherous Khumbu Icefall (even after the fixed ladders were removed for the season),” the company stated. “This is nothing short of a miracle.”

Questions remain about how Dawa became separated from the climber he was guiding during the descent and why search efforts did not immediately locate him. Helicopters were eventually deployed, but initial searches failed to find any trace of the missing guide.

His rescue came at the conclusion of one of the busiest climbing seasons in Everest history. Nepal issued a record 494 climbing permits this year, contributing to more than 1,000 climbers and guides reaching the summit.

Officials reported that five climbers and guides died on Everest during the season, according to Reuters.

Dawa’s rescue stands out as one of the most remarkable survival stories of the 2026 climbing season.

After nearly a week missing on the world’s tallest mountain and with his family already mourning his loss, the veteran guide was found alive just as hope appeared to be gone.

Cruise Ship Horror Deepens as Damaged Phone Links Stepbrother to Teen’s Murder [WATCH]
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Cruise Ship Horror Deepens as Damaged Phone Links Stepbrother to Teen’s Murder [WATCH]

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Federal prosecutors have identified a damaged cellphone belonging to Anna Kepner as a key piece of evidence in the case against her stepbrother, Timothy Hudson, who is accused in connection with the 18-year-old’s death aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship, as reported by Fox News.

Newly released court filings and hearing transcripts show investigators relied on surveillance footage, ship Wi-Fi records, and the eventual recovery of Kepner’s phone to build part of their probable-cause case against Hudson.

Kepner, an 18-year-old from Florida, was found dead on Nov. 7, 2025, inside cabin 8343 aboard the Carnival Horizon. She had been sharing the cabin with Hudson, who was 16 at the time, and another relative.

Federal prosecutors allege Hudson sexually assaulted and murdered Kepner. Hudson has been charged as an adult and faces federal prosecution.

According to court records, surveillance footage showed Kepner returning to the cabin on the evening before her death. Prosecutors stated investigators found no evidence indicating she left the cabin afterward.

When authorities searched the room, however, one item was missing.

Family members told investigators that Kepner was rarely separated from her cellphone. Despite extensive searches, the device could not initially be located inside the cabin.

According to federal filings, cruise ship personnel informed investigators they had neither removed the phone nor seen it during their response to the incident.

The device was later recovered from the ship’s lost-and-found department. Prosecutors said a crew member had discovered it inside a trash bin near the rear starboard side of the vessel. Investigators reported that the phone had sustained significant damage, including a shattered screen.

Federal authorities then sought to determine how the phone traveled from the cabin to the location where it was recovered.

According to prosecutors, the Carnival Horizon’s onboard wireless network automatically recorded connections between passengers’ devices and routers positioned throughout the ship. Those records allowed investigators to reconstruct the phone’s movement on the morning Kepner was found dead.

Court documents indicate Hudson left cabin 8343 at approximately 9:26 a.m. on Nov. 7. Prosecutors said Kepner’s phone began connecting to routers along a path that generally mirrored Hudson’s movements throughout the ship.

The records allegedly showed the phone connecting near the Lido Marketplace on Deck 10 at approximately 9:29 a.m. A few minutes later, the device connected near a smoking area on Deck 11, where surveillance footage reportedly showed Hudson smoking.

At approximately 9:39 a.m., the phone connected near Deck 12, where surveillance video captured Hudson walking on the jogging track.

Hudson returned to the cabin around 9:48 a.m., according to prosecutors. Roughly two minutes later, investigators said surveillance footage showed him leaving again while holding an unidentified object in his left hand and appearing to reach into the front pocket of his sweatshirt.

Video then showed Hudson walking toward the rear of the ship. At approximately 9:52 a.m., prosecutors said he was observed near the area where the trash bin was located.

While the bin itself was not visible on camera, investigators stated Hudson remained in that location for about 22 seconds before returning toward the cabin.

According to the government, router records later placed Kepner’s phone near the trash-bin location at approximately 9:55 a.m.

Prosecutors argue the timeline supports their conclusion that Hudson removed the phone from the cabin and discarded it.

Defense attorney Eric Cohen challenged that interpretation during court proceedings. Cohen argued that the data merely showed a similar route between Hudson and the phone and questioned whether the phone could have been disposed of elsewhere.

During testimony, FBI Special Agent Andrew Delvalle acknowledged that Hudson could have thrown the device into the water but stated that investigators found no evidence indicating that had occurred.

Court records indicate search warrants were executed for both Hudson’s and Kepner’s phones. Prosecutors said the devices did not reveal information directly explaining Kepner’s death or detailing the nature of their relationship.

The cellphone evidence forms only part of the government’s broader case, which also includes forensic findings, DNA evidence, and the timeline of activity surrounding the cabin.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Edwin G. Torres found probable cause to proceed, citing the combination of evidence presented by prosecutors. However, Torres also noted that the overall strength of the evidence was “a much closer call.”

Hudson is scheduled to stand trial in September. If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Iran Accused Of Turning Soccer Into A Spy Network As Opposition Urges FIFA Ban [WATCH]
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Iran Accused Of Turning Soccer Into A Spy Network As Opposition Urges FIFA Ban [WATCH]

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An Iranian opposition organization is calling on FIFA to investigate and potentially suspend Iran’s soccer federation ahead of the 2026 World Cup after releasing a report alleging that the country’s soccer infrastructure has been used as part of a broader government surveillance and security network.

The report was provided to Fox News Digital by the U.S. office of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), which claims internal Iranian government documents show the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has embedded personnel within Iran’s soccer system and used stadium technology to monitor citizens.

According to the report, at least 15 individuals identified as current or former IRGC commanders or security-linked officials have held leadership positions within soccer clubs, league operations, federations, or other sports organizations.

The NCRI alleges that stadiums and soccer clubs have become intertwined with Iran’s security apparatus through surveillance programs and management structures overseen by government-connected officials.

Among the allegations are claims that facial-recognition technology, identity verification systems, and other monitoring tools have been deployed at major stadiums, including Azadi Stadium, Takhti Stadium, and Shahr-e Qods Stadium.

The report cites what it describes as internal security documents from 2024 and 2025, including material from the Tehran Province Security Council and the Sarallah Headquarters security command.

“It is highly critical for security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies to utilize and exploit the video surveillance cameras of the Azadi Complex during matches, given the constant potential for unpredictable security incidents. It is highly conceivable that future riots and civil unrest could originate inside the sports stadiums,” the report quoted from the documents.

Fox News Digital reported that requests for comment were sent to the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran and Iran’s mission to the United Nations.

Alireza Jafarzadeh, deputy director of NCRI-US, told Fox News Digital that the organization’s investigation initially focused on how Iranian authorities identified participants in anti-government protests before expanding into sports-related surveillance.

“Our focus was basically in terms of the protests and seeing how the Iran regime actually [was] trying to identify the protesters in the streets, identifying the leaders of the protests,” Jafarzadeh said.

He added that investigators later concluded Iranian authorities paid particular attention to sports venues because of the large crowds they attract.

“When it comes to a sports field, the Iran regime has a special attention on sports as a means of repression,” he said.

According to the report, officials discussed connecting ticketing systems to Iran’s national civil-registration database, assigning seats based on national identification numbers, deploying facial-recognition cameras, and monitoring fan organizations.

Jafarzadeh said the purpose of gathering such information was to identify government opponents.

“The information they got from the sports facilities, they used in order to identify the people who were opposed to the regime, and then later on arrested them,” he said.

“The regime uses sports and athletic events in order to exert its repression on the population.”

The report further alleges that Iran’s soccer federation has long been influenced by security-linked officials. Among those named is federation president Mehdi Taj, whom NCRI identifies as a former IRGC intelligence officer.

FIFA’s statutes require member associations to operate independently and remain free from political interference. The organization’s rules state that member associations must manage their affairs independently and remain neutral regarding political matters.

Jafarzadeh argued that FIFA should take action similar to measures previously imposed on South Africa during the apartheid era.

“You cannot have a sports club, a sports facility, dominated with the military, which is part of the Iran regime,” he said. “Sports federations, they have to be able to operate autonomously, independent of the government…

“My message to FIFA is that do exactly what you did with South Africa during the apartheid. The Iranian Football Federation that is controlled by the Revolutionary Guards, must be expelled from FIFA.”

Fox News Digital also reported that requests for comment were sent to FIFA.

The NCRI report additionally raised concerns about restrictions on women attending sporting events and cited previous reports from human rights organizations regarding barriers women have faced at stadiums in Iran.

The report also highlighted historical cases involving Iranian athletes who allegedly faced punishment because of political activities or opposition to the government.

Among those cited was former Iranian national team captain Habib Khabiri, whose case has been referenced by human rights organizations and international reports for decades.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the allegations are likely to increase scrutiny of Iran’s soccer federation and its relationship with government institutions.

Neither FIFA nor Iranian officials had publicly responded to the allegations at the time of publication.

Maine Democrats Nominate Tattooed Extremist Graham Platner to Challenge Susan Collins [WATCH]
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Maine Democrats Nominate Tattooed Extremist Graham Platner to Challenge Susan Collins [WATCH]

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Graham Platner will be the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in Maine after winning the party’s primary election on June 9, setting up a general election contest against incumbent Republican Sen. Susan Collins, as reported by Townhall.

The result was widely expected, with both Platner and Collins securing their respective party nominations. Collins, who was first elected to the Senate in 1996, ran unopposed for Republican renomination as she seeks a sixth six-year term.

NBC News projected that Collins and Platner would advance to the November election, which is expected to become one of the most closely watched Senate races in the country.

The Maine contest carries national significance as both parties compete for control of the Senate. Democrats currently hold 47 seats and would need a net gain of four seats to win a majority.

Collins is considered a key target because she is the only Republican senator representing a state that President Donald Trump lost in the 2024 election.

While the primary outcomes were largely anticipated, attention is now shifting to the general election campaign and the issues that could shape voter decisions in the months ahead.

Platner enters the race with several controversies already drawing scrutiny.

Reports have highlighted allegations and disputes involving his past conduct, including a sexting scandal, graphic social media posts, allegations of domestic abuse, and questions surrounding a tattoo that has generated public criticism.

Those issues are expected to become part of the broader campaign as Republicans and Democrats battle over one of the nation’s most competitive Senate seats.

NBC News noted that the race is likely to become a major test of Democratic messaging and voter priorities, particularly as Platner’s past conduct continues to attract attention.

According to the report, the election has already emerged as a broader political battleground that could offer insight into the direction of the Democratic Party while also testing the strength of Collins’ long-standing support among Maine voters.

Collins has repeatedly demonstrated political resilience during her Senate career.

Since first winning election nearly three decades ago, she has maintained a reputation as one of Maine’s most durable political figures and has survived multiple competitive reelection campaigns.

Platner, meanwhile, has built support among Democratic voters and raised significant campaign funds during the election cycle.

His victory gives Democrats a nominee who has energized portions of the party’s base as they seek to flip a seat that could play an important role in determining Senate control.

The campaign between Collins and Platner is expected to intensify in the coming weeks as both candidates begin focusing on the general election.

With national attention, significant fundraising, and Senate control potentially at stake, Maine is likely to remain one of the most closely watched political battlegrounds heading into November.

Voters will decide the race this fall when Collins seeks another term, and Platner attempts to deliver Democrats one of their most important Senate pickups of the election cycle.

Nancy Mace Crashes Out, Concedes as Trump-Backed Pamela Evette Surges Ahead
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Nancy Mace Crashes Out, Concedes as Trump-Backed Pamela Evette Surges Ahead

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Rep. Nancy Mace conceded defeat in South Carolina’s Republican gubernatorial primary Tuesday night after early returns showed her trailing well behind Trump-backed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, as reported by The New York Post.

Less than two hours after polls closed, Mace acknowledged the outcome and threw her support behind South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, who advanced to a runoff election against Evette.

“This isn’t the end of the fight, but it is the end of a chapter,” Mace said during her concession speech.

With votes still being counted, Mace held just 11.3% of the vote, placing fifth in the Republican field. Evette led with roughly 29%, while Wilson received about 26%, securing the two runoff spots.

Shortly after conceding, Mace posted a message to X thanking supporters and reflecting on her time in office.

“Serving South Carolina has been the greatest honor of my life,” Mace wrote. “Every vote I cast, every hearing I called, every fight I picked — it was always for you.”

Mace also suggested that some of the issues she championed may have contributed to her defeat.

She pointed to her efforts involving the release of government records related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as well as her work highlighting congressional sexual harassment settlements.

“As a survivor, I chose to stand on principle and stand against the Epstein cover-up,” Mace wrote. “I chose to expose the names hidden in the sexual harassment slush fund. I chose to expose DEI judges. I chose to expose the abusers of children.

“And apparently, I chose wrong if the goal was winning an election.”

The race was largely shaped by the competition for President Donald Trump’s endorsement. On May 29, Trump formally endorsed Evette, a move widely viewed as a major development in the contest to replace term-limited Gov. Henry McMaster.

Before the endorsement, both Mace and Evette worked to present themselves as strong supporters of Trump and prominently featured him in campaign materials.

In one of the earliest advertisements of the race, Evette emphasized her support for Trump.

“It’s good to have President Trump’s back,” Evette said. “I’ve backed him from Day One.”

Mace pushed back on those claims at the time, arguing Evette was overstating her relationship with the president.

“Pamela Evette is NOT ENDORSED by DONALD TRUMP. Do not believe her LIES,” Mace wrote in an X post.

Hours later, Trump officially endorsed Evette.

In his endorsement announcement, Trump praised the lieutenant governor’s loyalty and early support.

“Highly Respected and very popular Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina, Pam Evette, is an America First Patriot who has been with me from the very beginning,” Trump wrote.

“She never wavered, never let me down, and was the only South Carolina Gubernatorial Candidate to Endorse me as soon as I launched my 2024 Presidential Campaign,” he added.

 

 

 

“She crisscrossed South Carolina and other States for me, and I said, at the time, that this is truly something which I cannot forget!”

Trump reinforced that support during an election eve tele-rally, where he described Evette’s opponents as “not serious” and again highlighted her early endorsement of his presidential campaign.

During the same event, Evette told Trump that others in the race were attempting to “take credit for being one of your favorites.”

Following Trump’s endorsement, Mace argued that her support for releasing Epstein-related documents may have cost her valuable political support.

“I know I put the likelihood of an endorsement on the line when I demanded transparency on the Epstein files,” Mace wrote. “I demanded it because you deserved the truth – ALL OF IT – and as a survivor of a corrupt and broken court system, I will always pursue justice for those who deserve it.”

“If sacrificing my values is the price of an endorsement, I will never pay it.”

Mace has been one of the most high-profile members of Congress since winning election to the House in 2020.

The first woman to graduate from The Citadel’s Corps of Cadets, she has frequently drawn national attention through her legislative battles, public disputes, and outspoken political style.

Her relationship with Wilson has also been contentious. Mace previously accused the attorney general of failing to act on allegations she raised against her former fiancé and others. Wilson rejected those claims, calling them “categorically false.”

Despite their differences, Mace announced during her concession speech that she and Wilson had “buried the hatchet” and urged supporters to back him in the runoff.

The June 23 runoff between Evette and Wilson will determine the Republican nominee for governor. Given South Carolina’s recent electoral history, the GOP nominee will enter the general election as the clear favorite.

The state has not elected a Democrat as governor since 1998.


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