Rights

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Accuses Lycoming County Prison of Negligence and Civil Rights Violations After Inmate Dies from COVID-19 and Diabetes Complications

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Williamsport, Pennsylvania – The family of a man who died in Lycoming County Prison has filed a federal lawsuit accusing jail staff of neglecting his worsening symptoms until it was too late. Chaz Donya Turner, 33, died on January 15, 2022, due to complications from COVID-19 and diabetes, according to an autopsy conducted by Lycoming County Coroner Charles Kiessling. Turner, who had a history of diabetes and hyperglycemia, had sought medical attention at UPMC Williamsport for abdominal issues just a few days before his arrest. Turner was taken into custody on January 4, 2022, on … Read more

Judge Denies Woman’s Appeal for Ownership Rights to Dogs in ‘House of Horrors’ Animal Abuse Investigation

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CHANDLER, Ariz. – A judge has denied the appeal of a woman involved in an animal abuse investigation in Chandler, Arizona to regain ownership of the dogs at the center of the case. The woman, identified as April McLaughlin, also known as “Sydney McKinley,” was previously accused of 95 counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty. In October, a judge terminated her rights to the dogs, a decision that she later appealed. However, her appeal has now been dismissed. The case, often referred to as the ‘House of Horrors,’ gained attention in September 2023 when authorities removed … Read more

California Introduces New Laws to Safeguard Reproductive Rights and Address Opioid Crisis

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San Jose, California – A wave of new legislation in California is set to take effect with the start of the new year, aiming to address various issues and prioritize the well-being of Californians. Governor Gavin Newsom, in partnership with the Legislature, has highlighted a number of bills that focus on reproductive rights, affordable housing, workers’ rights, increasing voter access, holding oil companies accountable, addressing the opioid crisis, and tackling the mental health crisis. California, known as “more than just a state of dreamers,” but also “a state of doers,” is taking significant steps to … Read more

Burien Faces Lawsuit Over Controversial Public Camping Ban: Residents Fight for Their Rights

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BURIN, Wash. – A lawsuit has been filed against the city of Burien in King County Superior Court over its public camping ban. The lawsuit was brought by the Northwest Justice Project on behalf of three unhoused Burien residents and the Seattle King County Coalition on Homelessness. The complaint argues that Ordinance 818, which prohibits camping on public property between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m., unfairly targets and displaces unhoused individuals. According to the lawsuit, Elizabeth and Alex Hale, who are plaintiffs in the case, were among the many people who found refuge in a … Read more