News by Raheem Soto
News by Raheem Soto on South Shore Press
Historic Legal Battle Unfolds: Federal Jury to Decide Fate in Transgender Hate Crime
In a pivotal legal showdown unfolding in Columbia, a federal jury is set to determine the outcome of a landmark hate crime case, marking a historic moment in the pursuit of justice for transgender individuals. The trial centers around Daqua Lameek Ritter, accused of killing a Black transgender woman known as Dime Doe in court documents back in August 2019.
Illegal Entry, Tragic Outcome: UGA Murder Puts Spotlight on Immigration Challenges
In a devastating incident that unfolded on the University of Georgia (UGA) campus, the suspect in the murder of 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley has been identified as 26-year-old Venezuelan national Jose Antonio Ibarra, confirmed to be in the United States as an illegal migrant. This tragic event has sparked renewed conversations about the implications of the Biden administration's catch-and-release policy, with critics linking it to instances of violence involving individuals residing in the country without legal status.
Trump Triumphs in South Carolina as Haley's $76.4M Gamble Falls Short
In a pivotal moment, Donald Trump clinched a decisive victory in the South Carolina primary, securing his third consecutive win in the early Republican contests for the 2024 presidential race. Trump's commanding 59.8% of the vote and 451,905 votes underscored his enduring influence, earning him 47 delegates.
Stony Brook University's Research Initiatives Get a Boost with Federal Funding
Stony Brook University is poised to embark on a series of groundbreaking research initiatives fueled by an additional $1,473,339 in federal funding secured through research grants. This latest allocation brings the total amount received since January 2023 to an impressive $16,480,585, laying the foundation for impactful projects that could potentially transform the academic landscape and the local community.
Israel Summons Brazilian Ambassador Over President Lula's Gaza Comments
The diplomatic landscape is experiencing a ripple of tension as Israel decides to summon the Brazilian ambassador, responding to what it deems as "shameful and serious" remarks by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva concerning the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The controversy unfolded during Lula's address at the African Union summit in Addis Ababa, where he characterized the situation in the Gaza Strip as a "genocide," drawing parallels to historical events with the assertion, "What is happening in the Gaza Strip with the Palestinian people has no parallel in history. Indeed, it occurred when Hitler decided to kill the Jews."
Trump Faces $350 Million Fine in Controversial Fraud Ruling
In a seismic legal development, former President Donald Trump is grappling with a hefty $350 million penalty and a barrage of restrictions. Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engoron delivered the verdict, finding Trump, his company, and associates guilty of inflating assets through fraudulent means. However, this ruling has sparked controversy, as critics question the impartiality of the legal proceedings.
Tragedy Strikes: Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl Parade Marred by Deadly Shooting
A day of celebration and victory turned into a harrowing ordeal as gunfire erupted during the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl Victory Parade and Rally, leaving one woman dead and 22 others wounded, including several children. The incident unfolded at Union Station, turning the festive atmosphere into chaos.
Love, Lies, and Legal Battles: The Unraveling Trump Trial Saga
In the midst of the highly publicized trial against Donald Trump and his co-defendants for alleged election interference, the proceedings took an unexpected turn as Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis faced intense scrutiny over allegations of a romantic involvement with her top prosecutor, Nathan Wade. The courtroom saga unfolded as Willis, resisting a subpoena, entered the proceedings dramatically, aiming to dispel rumors and set the record straight.
Mayorkas Impeachment Saga: GOP Triumph, Senate Showdown, and the Battle for Border Security
In a historic move on February 13, House Republicans achieved a significant victory by impeaching Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The impeachment comes amid widespread allegations that his policies are directly responsible for the escalating crisis at the southern border.
Burdened Beyond Belief: The Shocking Reality of New York's Housing Crisis
In a shocking exposé, the latest installment of the "New Yorkers in Need" series by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli reveals that nearly three million households in New York are grappling with housing costs exceeding 30% of their income, propelling the state to the third-highest rate of housing cost burdens in the nation. As the crisis deepens, 1 in 5 households is burdened with an alarming 50% of their income dedicated to housing, according to the comprehensive report.
New York State Common Retirement Fund Reaches Record Value: What It Means for New Yorkers
New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli has revealed that the New York State Common Retirement Fund (Fund) reached an estimated value of $259.9 billion at the close of the third quarter of the state fiscal year 2023-24. This significant milestone has implications for pensioners, government employees, and New Yorkers.
A Beacon of Opportunity: Senator Palumbo Announces Scholarships to Elevate Local Students
In a gesture that underscores the ongoing support for academic and athletic excellence within the 1st Senate District, Senator Anthony Palumbo (R, C-New Suffolk) has promoted a brighter future for local students. The New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators Inc., a bipartisan entity renowned for its dedication to celebrating the rich tapestry of Italian American heritage and its multifaceted contributions to New York's culture, has officially opened its doors to applications for its annual scholarship program.
Concerns Arise Over NY Common Retirement Fund's Climate-Driven Investment Decisions
In a recent New York State Common Retirement Fund (Fund) announcement, concerns are mounting over the decision to restrict investments in eight oil and gas companies, including industry giant Exxon Mobil Corp. The move, part of the Fund's strategy to navigate climate risks, has sparked criticism for potentially jeopardizing investment returns and diverging from traditional fiduciary responsibilities.
Panico Champions Reforms and Cutting Red Tape
In a bid to cut bureaucratic red tape and enhance the efficiency of local processes, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico is spearheading transformative reforms. The proposed changes aim to simplify the accessory apartment registration process and streamline planning procedures, heralding a more resident-friendly and responsive governance approach.
Smithtown Supervisor Joins Forces with Girl Scout Unit 26 for Birthday Bag Collection Drive
The Girl Scouts of Service Unit 26 will spearhead the collection and assembly of these unique "Birthday Bags," the generous donations will be handed over to the Smithtown Food Pantry. Families facing financial challenges can collect a "Birthday Bag" from the pantry, ensuring that no child misses out on the joy of a birthday celebration.
Taxpayer Dollars Abroad: Questioning Climate Aid to TerrorHarboring Nations
In a decision that has sparked widespread controversy, the Biden administration recently committed $15 million to Bangladesh for climate change initiatives, despite the country's fraught relationship with the United States and a backdrop of escalating crime and drug problems within U.S. borders. This allocation, part of the Enabling Environment for Climate Resilience Activity (EECRA), is raising eyebrows, mainly as Bangladesh is known not only for its vulnerability to climate change but also as a breeding ground for terrorist organizations like AQIS and ISIS.
Netanyahu's Dual Strategy: Evacuation and Assault on Hamas Strongho
In an escalation that has drawn international concern, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans for a military operation in Rafah, Gaza's southern town, amid a war that has already seen profound human cost. This decision, disclosed on Friday, comes as Israel describes Rafah as the last bastion of Hamas strength, necessitating a "massive operation" to eradicate the militant group's presence. Rafah, positioned on the border with Egypt, has become a refuge for approximately 1.5 million Palestinians displaced by the conflict, significantly complicating the proposed military action.
Navigating Tragedy: Israel's Resolve in the Face of Hamas Hostage Crisis
In the shadow of an enduring conflict that has tested the resilience of a nation, Israel confronts a heart-wrenching chapter in its struggle against the terror group Hamas. The revelation by the Israeli military that over a fifth of the hostages taken during the harrowing October 7 raid have perished underlines the profound human cost of this confrontation. This somber news has not only deepened the nation's sorrow but has also ignited a fervent debate over the path forward in securing the freedom of those still held captive.
Handling of Classified Call Puts Biden Under the Microscope of Special Counsel
In a revelation that has sent ripples through Washington, Special Counsel Robert Hur's exhaustive investigation into President Joe Biden's handling of classified documents has cast a shadow over the administration. The report, released Thursday, details the discovery of classified documents related to a December 2015 call between then-Vice President Biden and Ukraine's Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk, raising serious questions about Biden's adherence to national security protocols.
Tucker Carlson's Putin Interview Highlights Media's Double Standard
In an era where digital platforms amplify voices and perspectives, Tucker Carlson's interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin captured global attention. It underscored the prevailing double standards in media and political discourse. Garnering millions of views within hours of its release, the interview's reception reveals a stark contrast in how journalistic endeavors are evaluated, depending on the interviewer's political leanings.
Daily Feed
South Shore Press is Around the World: Dispatch From New Zealand
South Shore Press reporter Robert Chartuk is halfway around the world, having crossed the Equator to file this report:
Ward Melville's Athletic Trainer Wins Alumni Award
Ward Melville's Athletic Trainer and Science Teacher Claudine Weiner recently was awarded the Outstanding Alumni Award from Stony Brook University.
Coach Desi Honored
This weekend the Suffolk County Baseball Coaches Association honored legendary Coach Al Desiderio.