2011 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights

2011 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

01 Jan Canada Criticizes Iran's Human Rights: Canadian Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon publicly denounced Iran's human rights record, expressing serious concerns about harsh death sentences, unfair prison terms, and the detention of two Canadian dual-nationals.
03 Jan Bangladesh Military Sentencing: An additional 35 military officers were sentenced for their involvement in a mutiny that occurred in February 2009, indicating ongoing judicial proceedings related to military misconduct.
08 Jan WikiLeaks challenges government data requests: On January 8, 2011, WikiLeaks announced it would challenge government data requests, citing concerns over freedom of information. source: en.wikipedia.org
09 Jan Undercover Police Infiltration Revelation: The Guardian newspaper exposes how Metropolitan Police officer Mark Kennedy used the pseudonym Mark Stone to infiltrate protest groups across 22 countries, revealing extensive covert surveillance tactics.
14 Jan Berlusconi Prostitution Investigation: On January 14, 2011, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi was under investigation for alleged involvement in a prostitution ring, leading to widespread media coverage and political debate in Italy. source: bbc.com
15 Jan British Police Undercover Spy Scandal: Revelations emerge about a British police spy ring operating across Europe, with a 44-year-old male officer identified as having infiltrated a group in Cardiff, Wales.
19 Jan Loughner Indictment for Giffords Shooting: A U.S. Federal Grand Jury indicted Jared Lee Loughner for the attempted murder of Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, with additional charges pending, marking a significant legal proceeding following the high-profile shooting.
20 Jan Mass Mafia Arrests in Northeastern United States: U.S. federal agents charged 127 mafia members across seven families in New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, targeting organized crime networks involved in serious criminal activities.
23 Jan WikiLeaks and Swiss Bank Disclosure: Julian Assange criticized the arrest of a Swiss bank worker who disclosed tax evasion details, suggesting authorities should investigate the revealed tax fraud instead.
26 Jan Tunisia issues international arrest warrant for Ben Ali: On January 26, 2011, Tunisia issued an international arrest warrant for former President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, who fled the country amid protests earlier that month. The warrant was part of efforts to hold him accountable for alleged corruption and human rights abuses during his 23-year rule. source: britannica.com
28 Jan China Denies Nobel Laureate Family Visits: Chinese authorities refused Nobel Peace Prize laureate and dissident Liu Xiaobo's request for family visits, demonstrating ongoing tensions between the Chinese government and human rights activists.
31 Jan US Court Rules Obama's Health Insurance Mandate Unconstitutional: Roger Vinson of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida ruled that President Barack Obama's Health Insurance mandate is unconstitutional.
01 Feb U.S. Criticizes Iran's Human Rights Practices: The United States expresses serious concern over Iran's human rights violations following the execution of Zahra Bahrami, criticizing the lack of transparency and due process in Iranian judicial proceedings.
05 Feb George W. Bush Cancels Switzerland Appearance: Former US President George W. Bush cancels a scheduled appearance in Switzerland amid increasing pressure from Human Rights Watch regarding potential arrest over waterboarding torture approvals.
08 Feb Charles Taylor war crimes trial controversy: On February 8, 2011, the trial of former Liberian President Charles Taylor faced significant scrutiny as allegations of bias and procedural irregularities emerged. Taylor was accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Sierra Leone Civil War. The trial's proceedings raised questions about international justice and accountability. source: bbc.com
09 Feb Berlusconi Sexual Misconduct Controversy: Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi brands prosecutors' request to put him on trial for alleged sexual relations with underage prostitutes as 'disgusting'.
10 Feb UK Votes on Prisoner Voting Rights: The British House of Commons votes overwhelmingly 234-22 in favor of allowing prisoners to vote, a controversial decision with significant implications for civil rights and electoral participation.
12 Feb Canadian Miscarriage of Justice Resolved: The Ontario Court of Appeal quashed Tammy Marquardt's 1995 conviction for murdering her 2-year-old epileptic son, bringing an end to a longstanding miscarriage of justice in Canada.
14 Feb Ecuador orders Chevron to pay $8 billion over oil damage: An Ecuadorian court ruled that Chevron was responsible for environmental damage in the Amazon region and ordered the company to pay approximately $8 billion in damages. Chevron contested the ruling, labeling it a "product of fraud," while the plaintiffs considered the amount insufficient compared to the damages caused. source: industryweek.com
15 Feb Berlusconi Indictment: Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi was indicted for paying for sex and misusing his political power in the notorious Rubygate scandal, marking a significant moment in Italian political history.
16 Feb Hawaii Approves Civil Unions: The Hawaii Senate approves Senate Bill 232, legalizing civil unions for gay and lesbian couples, which will be sent to Governor Neil Abercrombie for final approval, representing a significant step for LGBTQ+ rights.
17 Feb Wisconsin Teachers' Protest: Teachers in Wisconsin staged massive protests against proposed legislation that would limit collective bargaining rights for public sector employees, leading to school closures and significant political tension in the state capital, Madison.
18 Feb Wisconsin Labor Protests: Thousands protest in Wisconsin against a bill that would force public servants to pay higher pension and healthcare costs while stripping them of nearly all union rights. State senators had previously fled to Illinois to avoid the vote.
21 Feb Unit 731 Excavation Begins: Archaeological excavation commences at Unit 731, a notorious Imperial Japanese Army site used for biological and chemical warfare human experimentation during World War II.
23 Feb Lockerbie Bombing Accusation: Mustafa Abdul Jalil, Libya's former Minister of Justice, publicly accused Muammar Gaddafi of authorizing the Lockerbie bombing, a significant historical allegation with international implications.
03 Mar Bradley Manning Faces Serious Charges: Bradley Manning was charged with 22 additional offenses, including the serious capital charge of aiding the enemy, related to his alleged leaking of classified documents to WikiLeaks.
05 Mar Berlusconi corruption trial: Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi faces trial on corruption charges. The trial is part of a series of legal challenges Berlusconi has faced throughout his political career. source: reuters.com
07 Mar Jacques Chirac Faces Legal Charges: Former French President Jacques Chirac was facing legal charges related to alleged misuse of Paris city resources for his political party, Rally for the Republic, during his tenure as Mayor of Paris.
09 Mar Illinois Abolishes Death Penalty: Governor Pat Quinn signs legislation abolishing the death penalty in Illinois, commuting 15 death row inmates' sentences to life without parole, marking a significant legal reform.
12 Mar Deadly Bus Crash in The Bronx: A tragic bus accident in New York's Bronx borough resulted in fifteen fatalities, highlighting transportation safety concerns.
17 Mar Yemen Arrests Human Rights Activist: Tawakel Karman, a prominent human rights activist, is detained by Yemeni authorities during the Arab Spring protests.
22 Mar Former Israeli President Convicted of Sexual Crimes: Moshe Katsav, former President of Israel, was sentenced to seven years in prison, two years probation, and ordered to pay compensation to his victims. He was found guilty of serious sexual offenses including indecent assault and rape. President Shimon Peres emphasized that the ruling demonstrates equality before the law.
25 Mar Liu Xianbin Imprisonment: Chinese human rights activist Liu Xianbin was sentenced to ten years in prison on charges of inciting subversion, reflecting ongoing tensions between government authorities and political dissidents in China.
28 Mar Berlusconi corruption trial begins: On March 28, 2011, former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi faced the start of a corruption trial in Milan. He was accused of paying for sex with an underage prostitute and abusing his power to cover it up. The trial marked a significant moment in Italian politics, as Berlusconi had previously faced multiple legal challenges during his tenure. source: reuters.com
29 Mar Israeli Nationality Law Amendment: The Israeli Knesset approves a controversial amendment allowing courts to revoke citizenship for terrorism-related convictions, with a vote of 37-11.
31 Mar Assad's Response to Syrian Protests: Syrian President Bashar al-Assad authorized a review and investigation into the deaths of protesters, a superficial response that did little to address the underlying political tensions.
02 Apr India's Telecom Scam Accusations: India initiated legal proceedings against former telecom minister Andimuthu Raja, several corporate executives, and three companies in a major telecommunications corruption scandal.
03 Apr China Detains Ai Weiwei: The People's Republic of China has detained prominent artist and dissident Ai Weiwei as part of its ongoing crackdown on dissenting views, drawing international attention to human rights concerns.
06 Apr Berlusconi Controversial Trial Begins: The trial of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi commenced, charging him with having sexual relations with an underage prostitute, which further exposed his controversial personal and political conduct.
11 Apr France Bans Face Coverings: France implemented a controversial law banning the burqa and niqab in public spaces, becoming the first European nation to impose such a restriction. The legislation sparked significant debate about religious freedom and cultural integration.
12 Apr Hosni Mubarak Hospitalized During Interrogation: Former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak is taken to the hospital while being interrogated about alleged corruption and violence against protesters.
13 Apr Ivory Coast Political Transition: President Alassane Ouattara announces that former leader Laurent Gbagbo will face charges at both national and international levels following the country's political crisis.
15 Apr Croatian war crimes conviction: A Croatian court convicted a former general for war crimes committed during the Balkan conflicts in the 1990s. This ruling was part of ongoing efforts to address past atrocities and promote justice in the region. source: reuters.com
16 Apr UN War Crimes Investigation in Sri Lanka: A United Nations expert panel discovered credible allegations of potential war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by both the Sri Lankan Government and the LTTE during the final stages of the Sri Lankan Civil War, signaling potential international legal consequences.
18 Apr Anti-Piracy Conference in Dubai: An international conference on anti-piracy was held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, addressing maritime security challenges.
19 Apr Bradley Manning transferred to Kansas military prison: U.S. Army Private First Class Bradley Manning, accused of leaking classified documents to WikiLeaks, was transferred to the United States Disciplinary Barracks in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. This move was part of the military's ongoing legal proceedings against him. source: nytimes.com
20 Apr Chinese Human Rights Lawyers Released: Prominent human rights lawyers Jiang Tianyong and Liu Xiaoyuan are released, potentially signaling shifts in China's approach to legal activism.
22 Apr Mubarak detention extended: Former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's detention was extended as he faced charges related to corruption and the violent crackdown on protests during the Arab Spring. This case drew significant media attention and public interest. source: bbc.com
30 Apr Allegations of War Crimes: United States Ambassador to the UN, Susan Rice, accused Gaddafi of supplying Viagra to troops to systematically encourage mass sexual violence during the conflict.
03 May Saudi Arabian Protests and Human Rights: Human Rights Watch called on the Saudi Arabian government to release a rights activist arrested during peaceful demonstrations, highlighting concerns about a wave of arrests that could potentially hinder reform efforts.
04 May North Korean political prison camps exposed: Reports emerged detailing the conditions in North Korean political prison camps, highlighting human rights abuses and the treatment of prisoners. This revelation drew international condemnation and calls for accountability. source: hrw.org
05 May Brazil Legalizes Same-Sex Civil Unions: The Brazilian Supreme Federal Court unanimously ruled to extend civil union rights to same-sex couples, marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in the country.
08 May Libyan Rape Victim Seeks Refuge: Iman al-Obeidi, an alleged victim of rape during the Libyan conflict, fled Tunisia to escape potential reprisals from Muammar Gaddafi's regime, drawing international attention to human rights abuses.
11 May Bhopal Disaster Conviction Appeal Rejected: The Supreme Court of India declined a government petition seeking harsher sentences for seven individuals convicted in the 1984 Bhopal industrial disaster, maintaining the existing legal judgment.
12 May John Demjanjuk convicted of Nazi war crimes: On May 12, 2011, John Demjanjuk was convicted in Germany for his role as a guard at a Nazi death camp during World War II. The case was significant as it highlighted the ongoing pursuit of justice for Holocaust victims. source: bbc.com
14 May Gaddafi facing International Criminal Court: On May 14, 2011, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, his son Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, and intelligence chief Abdullah al-Senussi, charging them with crimes against humanity during the Libyan Civil War. source: en.wikipedia.org
16 May Dominique Strauss-Kahn sexual assault charges: Dominique Strauss-Kahn, then managing director of the International Monetary Fund, was arrested on May 16, 2011, in New York City on charges of sexual assault. The incident involved a hotel maid, leading to significant media coverage and political ramifications. source: nytimes.com
17 May Dominique Strauss-Kahn rape scandal: Following his arrest, Dominique Strauss-Kahn faced serious allegations of rape, which led to a high-profile legal battle. The case drew international attention and raised discussions about power dynamics and sexual assault. source: nytimes.com
18 May Al-Jazeera Journalist Released: Iran releases Dorothy Parvaz, an Al-Jazeera journalist who had been detained since April 29, initially taken into custody in Syria.
19 May Dominique Strauss-Kahn indicted on sexual assault charges: On May 19, 2011, former International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury on seven criminal counts, including two counts of first-degree criminal sexual acts, one count of first-degree attempted rape, and one count of first-degree sexual abuse. He was granted bail under strict conditions, including home detention and electronic monitoring. source: money.cnn.com
24 May Mubarak trial for protester deaths: On May 24, 2011, former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak was put on trial for the deaths of protesters during the 2011 revolution. The trial marked a significant moment in Egypt's transition to democracy. source: aljazeera.com
25 May Elizabeth Smart Kidnapper Sentenced: Brian David Mitchell was sentenced to life in prison for the 2002 kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart and holding her captive for nine months, bringing closure to a high-profile criminal case that captured national attention.
26 May Ratko Mladic arrested for war crimes: On May 26, 2011, Ratko Mladic, the former Bosnian Serb general, was arrested in Serbia after years on the run. He was wanted for his role in the Srebrenica massacre and other war crimes during the Bosnian War. source: reuters.com
27 May L'Aquila earthquake manslaughter charges: On May 27, 2011, six Italian scientists were convicted of manslaughter for failing to adequately warn residents before the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake. The case raised significant questions about the responsibilities of scientists in disaster preparedness. source: theguardian.com
28 May Hosni Mubarak fined for communication blackout: On May 28, 2011, former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak was fined for his role in a communication blackout during the 2011 protests. The ruling highlighted the government's attempts to suppress dissent during the Arab Spring. source: reuters.com
29 May Malta Legalizes Divorce: Malta becomes the last European Union country to legalize divorce, marking a significant social and legal milestone in the nation's progressive reforms.
30 May Saudi Arabia Releases Women's Rights Activist: Saudi authorities released women's rights activist Manal al-Sharif after she was detained for driving a car in defiance of the country's ban on female drivers. source: bbc.com
08 Jun Australia Bans Live Cattle Exports to Indonesia: Australia suspends live cattle exports to Indonesia for up to six months following reports of cruel treatment in Indonesian abattoirs, highlighting animal welfare concerns.
09 Jun Cesare Battisti Extradition Case: Italian communist militant Cesare Battisti was released from a Brazilian jail after the Brazilian Constitutional Court ruled against his extradition to Italy. This decision sparked diplomatic tensions, with Italy announcing plans to sue Brazil at the International Court of Justice for violating their bilateral extradition treaty.
11 Jun Burma Slightly Relaxes Media Censorship: Burma's media censorship laws have been marginally relaxed for entertainment, sports, and fairytales, though significant restrictions on news titles remain in place.
13 Jun Bahrain's Medical Persecution: On June 13, 2011, reports emerged of medical professionals in Bahrain being persecuted for treating injured protesters during the uprising. Many doctors and nurses faced arrest and charges for their involvement in providing medical care to demonstrators. source: hrw.org
14 Jun CIA War Crimes Investigation: On June 14, 2011, reports emerged that the CIA was under investigation for alleged war crimes related to its interrogation practices. The investigation focused on the use of enhanced interrogation techniques during the War on Terror. source: theguardian.com
16 Jun Ivory Coast establishes investigation commission: The government of Ivory Coast has established a commission to investigate post-election violence that occurred in 2010-2011. This move aims to address human rights abuses and promote national reconciliation. source: aljazeera.com
19 Jun Saudi Arabia Executes Indonesian Woman: Saudi Arabia executed an Indonesian woman for murdering a Saudi woman, highlighting complex international legal and human rights issues.
20 Jun FIFA Corruption Scandal: Jack Warner, FIFA vice-president, resigns amid ongoing corruption allegations, highlighting significant governance issues in international football.
21 Jun Indonesia Protests Saudi Execution: Indonesian civilians and politicians protested Saudi Arabia's execution of a maid by beheading, with Indonesia recalling its ambassador. Protesters in Jakarta wore t-shirts reading "Corrupt government, workers are being beheaded".
22 Jun Whitey Bulger Arrested: James J. Bulger, a notorious Boston crime boss who had been on the run for decades, is captured in Santa Monica, California, ending one of the most high-profile fugitive cases in US criminal history.
24 Jun New York legalizes same-sex marriage: On June 24, 2011, New York became the sixth U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage. The New York State Legislature passed the Marriage Equality Act, and Governor Andrew Cuomo signed it into law. The legislation allowed same-sex couples to marry and receive the same legal rights as heterosexual couples. source: nytimes.com
25 Jun New York legalizes same-sex marriage: On June 24, 2011, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the Marriage Equality Act into law, allowing same-sex couples to marry legally in the state. The law took effect on July 24, 2011, making New York the sixth and most populous state to legalize same-sex marriage. source: assembly.ny.gov
27 Jun Bahraini medical personnel trial: On June 27, 2011, Bahrain commenced trials for 48 medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and dentists, who were accused of treating injured protesters during the 2011 uprising. The government charged them with offenses such as 'stockpiling weapons' and 'plotting to overthrow the government.' The trials drew significant international criticism, with organizations like the United Nations and Amnesty International expressing concern over the fairness and transparency of the proceedings. source: en.wikipedia.org
29 Jun Rhode Island Approves Civil Unions: The Rhode Island General Assembly passes legislation allowing same-sex couples to form civil unions, marking a progressive step in LGBTQ+ rights.
01 Jul Congo government troops sexual violence: On July 1, 2011, reports emerged detailing incidents of sexual violence committed by government troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Human rights organizations condemned these actions, calling for accountability and protection for victims in the ongoing conflict. source: bbc.com
02 Jul Tiger Airways Grounded: Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority suspends all Tiger Airways flights within the country until July 9 due to significant safety concerns, impacting air travel operations.
04 Jul Ratko Mladić war crimes trial: On July 4, 2011, the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) began the trial of Ratko Mladić, the former Bosnian Serb military leader, on charges of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Mladić was accused of orchestrating atrocities during the Bosnian War, including the Srebrenica massacre and the siege of Sarajevo. source: bbc.com
05 Jul News of the World phone hacking scandal: On July 5, 2011, revelations emerged that journalists from the British tabloid 'News of the World' had engaged in phone hacking, including accessing the voicemail of missing schoolgirl Milly Dowler. This led to public outrage and intensified investigations into the newspaper's practices. source: theguardian.com
06 Jul Don't Ask, Don't Tell repeal: On July 6, 2011, a federal appeals court ruled that the U.S. military's 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy, which prohibited openly gay individuals from serving, was unconstitutional. This ruling accelerated the process of repealing the policy, leading to its official end on September 20, 2011. source: nytimes.com
07 Jul News of the World phone hacking scandal: On July 7, 2011, further details emerged about the 'News of the World' phone hacking scandal, including the involvement of private investigator Glenn Mulcaire and the extent of the newspaper's illegal activities, leading to increased public and legal scrutiny. source: theguardian.com
08 Jul News of the World phone hacking scandal investigation: On July 8, 2011, investigations into the 'News of the World' phone hacking scandal intensified, with law enforcement agencies examining the extent of illegal activities and potential involvement of high-profile individuals, leading to public outcry and legal actions. source: theguardian.com
09 Jul Goran Hadžić arrested: Goran Hadžić, the last remaining fugitive indicted by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) for war crimes during the Yugoslav Wars, was arrested in Serbia on July 9, 2011. source: bbc.com
11 Jul Israeli law penalizing settlement boycotts: On July 11, 2011, Israel passed a law imposing fines on individuals and organizations that call for boycotts of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, a move criticized by human rights groups as a restriction on free speech. source: bbc.com
13 Jul Irish Catholic Church sexual abuse report released: A report detailing sexual abuse cases within the Irish Catholic Church was released, revealing widespread abuse by clergy members over several decades. The findings led to public outrage and calls for accountability, prompting the Church to implement reforms and support victims. source: britannica.com
14 Jul News of the World phone hacking scandal escalates: The phone hacking scandal involving the News of the World newspaper intensified, leading to the arrest of several journalists and executives. The scandal raised questions about journalistic ethics and the extent of illegal activities within the media industry. source: britannica.com
15 Jul News International phone hacking scandal leads to arrests: The phone hacking scandal involving News International expanded, resulting in the arrest of additional individuals connected to the illegal activities. The scandal continued to draw public and legal scrutiny, affecting the media industry's reputation. source: britannica.com
17 Jul News International phone hacking scandal: On July 17, 2011, the phone hacking scandal involving News International escalated, leading to widespread public outrage and calls for accountability. The scandal revealed unethical practices in journalism and had significant implications for media regulation in the UK. source: theguardian.com
18 Jul News International Scandal: The News of the World phone hacking scandal continues to unfold, with significant political and media implications in the United Kingdom.
19 Jul FBI Arrests Anonymous Hackers: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted raids across multiple US states, resulting in the arrest of sixteen alleged members of the computer hacking group Anonymous, demonstrating increased law enforcement efforts against cyber crime.
20 Jul Serbia Arrests War Crimes Suspect: Serbian authorities arrested Goran Hadzic, a Croatian Serb wartime leader, who was indicted on charges of crimes against humanity during Croatia's War of Independence, representing a significant step in regional post-conflict justice.
21 Jul News International Phone Hacking Scandal: Ongoing investigation into News Corporation's alleged computer hacking, with U.S. Department of Justice examining claims of rival computer infiltration and former executives questioning James Murdoch's testimony.
23 Jul News International Phone Hacking Scandal: The ongoing phone hacking scandal involving News International exposed widespread unethical journalistic practices, leading to significant legal and ethical investigations into media conduct in the United Kingdom.
24 Jul Ethics Investigation of Rep. David Wu: Democratic Party leaders called for an investigation into allegations of sexual assault by Representative David Wu of Oregon, demanding a review by the House Committee on Ethics.
29 Jul Operation Tuleta initiated to investigate computer hacking: On July 29, 2011, the Metropolitan Police Service announced the launch of Operation Tuleta, a new investigation into allegations of computer hacking related to the News International phone hacking scandal. This operation aimed to address concerns about unlawful information gathering by journalists. source: en.wikipedia.org
30 Jul Operation Tuleta progresses to formal investigation: On July 30, 2011, the Metropolitan Police Service announced that aspects of Operation Tuleta would move forward to a formal investigation. A new team was established to report to Deputy Assistant Commissioner Sue Akers, focusing on allegations of computer hacking related to the News International phone hacking scandal. source: en.wikipedia.org
31 Jul Moscow Boat Collision Tragedy: A fatal collision between a pleasure boat and a barge in central Moscow, Russia, led to the deaths of at least seven people, highlighting maritime safety concerns in urban waterways.
02 Aug UN Urges China to Release Liu Xiaobo: The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention called on China to release Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo, his wife, and his daughter, emphasizing human rights concerns.
03 Aug Mubarak trial begins: The trial of former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak began on August 3, 2011, amid significant public interest and international scrutiny. Mubarak faced charges related to the deaths of protesters during the 2011 uprising in Egypt. source: bbc.com
04 Aug Rumsfeld Faces Lawsuit Over Military Detention: A U.S. Army veteran was granted legal permission to sue former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld for personal damages, alleging unjust imprisonment and torture in Iraq.
09 Aug Warren Jeffs Sentenced for Child Sexual Assault: Warren Jeffs, former leader of the FLDS Church and previously on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for child sexual assault.
10 Aug News International Phone Hacking Scandal: The ongoing investigation into phone hacking at News International continues, with former News of the World news editor Greg Miskiw arrested and later released.
11 Aug Christchurch Rebuilding Plans: The Christchurch City Council announced comprehensive plans for reconstructing its central business district in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake, signaling resilience and recovery.
12 Aug Court challenges to Affordable Care Act: On August 12, 2011, multiple court challenges were filed against the Affordable Care Act, questioning its constitutionality and implementation. source: nytimes.com
15 Aug Mubarak Corruption Trial: Former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak appears in court for his corruption trial, accompanied by his sons Alaa and Gamal, symbolizing the post-Arab Spring judicial reckoning.
16 Aug News of the World phone hacking scandal: On August 16, 2011, the News of the World phone hacking scandal was widely reported, involving allegations that journalists at the British tabloid newspaper had illegally intercepted voicemail messages of celebrities, politicians, and crime victims. The scandal led to the newspaper's closure and significant public outcry over media ethics. source: en.wikipedia.org
17 Aug Lebanon tribunal indicts Hezbollah officials: On August 17, 2011, the Special Tribunal for Lebanon indicted four members of Hezbollah in connection with the 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. The indictment accused the individuals of being involved in the planning and execution of the bombing that killed Hariri and 21 others. source: en.wikipedia.org
18 Aug West Memphis Three Released: The 'West Memphis Three' were released from prison after serving 18 years, marking a significant moment in a controversial legal case that had garnered substantial public attention.
19 Aug West Memphis Three released from prison: On August 19, 2011, the West Memphis Three, three men convicted of a 1993 triple homicide, were released from prison after new DNA evidence emerged. Their case had garnered significant media attention and public support over the years. source: bbc.com
24 Aug Arrest in Anna Politkovskaya murder case: On August 24, 2011, Russian authorities announced an arrest in connection with the murder of journalist Anna Politkovskaya, who was killed in 2006. This development was seen as a significant step in a long-standing investigation into her assassination. source: bbc.com
25 Aug London Metropolitan Police Arrest Over 2,000 Riot Suspects: In the aftermath of the London riots, the Metropolitan Police Service reported making more than 2,000 arrests related to the civil unrest, demonstrating a comprehensive law enforcement response.
31 Aug Australian High Court blocks asylum seeker transfer: The Australian High Court ruled against the government's plan to transfer asylum seekers to Malaysia, deeming the agreement between the two countries invalid. The decision was a significant setback for Australia's immigration policy, as it sought to deter boat arrivals by sending asylum seekers to Malaysia. The ruling emphasized the need for legal and human rights considerations in immigration agreements. source: theguardian.com
06 Sep News International Phone Hacking Investigation: In September 2011, the News International phone hacking investigation in the United Kingdom led to the closure of the News of the World newspaper and the arrest of several individuals, including high-profile journalists and executives, on charges related to phone hacking and corruption. source: en.wikipedia.org
11 Sep UK Police Rescue Enslaved Men: British law enforcement conducted a significant operation at the Greenacre caravan site in Leighton Buzzard, rescuing 24 men who were being held as slaves under deplorable conditions.
12 Sep New London Police Commissioner: Bernard Hogan-Howe is appointed as the new Commissioner for London's Metropolitan Police, taking leadership of one of the world's most prominent law enforcement organizations.
17 Sep NTSB Investigates Reno Plane Crash: The US National Transportation Safety Board begins investigation into a plane crash that killed at least three people and injured multiple others in Reno.
19 Sep Iran Arrests Individuals in Major Bank Fraud Case: Iranian authorities arrested 19 individuals allegedly involved in a massive $2.6 billion bank fraud scheme, signaling a significant crackdown on financial corruption.
20 Sep End of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Policy: On September 20, 2011, the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' (DADT) policy officially ended, allowing gay, lesbian, and bisexual individuals to serve openly in the U.S. military. This policy, in effect since 1994, had previously prohibited military personnel from discriminating against or harassing closeted homosexual or bisexual service members or applicants, while barring openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual persons from military service. The repeal was certified by President Barack Obama, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen on July 22, 2011, and took effect 60 days later. source: en.wikipedia.org
23 Sep South Korean Bank Scandal: South Korean prosecutors conducted raids on seven banks, with one bank's president having committed suicide, revealing significant financial and corporate governance challenges.
25 Sep Multiple Homicides in Indiana: A shocking incident of violence unfolds in Indiana, with at least five people killed in two separate locations, raising concerns about public safety and gun violence.
26 Sep Terrorism Suspects Appear in Birmingham Court: Six individuals were brought to court in Birmingham, England, to face terrorism charges, one week after their arrest, reflecting ongoing efforts to combat potential terrorist threats in the United Kingdom.
27 Sep Fugitive Hijacker Captured: George Wright, a fugitive hijacker, was captured in Portugal 39 years after he and the Black Liberation Army seized control of Delta Air Lines Flight 831 and flew it to Algeria.
28 Sep Australian Columnist Loses Racial Discrimination Case: Andrew Bolt, a prominent Australian newspaper columnist, was found to have breached the Racial Discrimination Act in columns about nine prominent Aboriginal individuals, marking a significant legal precedent.
01 Oct Assassin of Salmaan Taseer sentenced to death: On October 1, 2011, a Pakistani court sentenced Mumtaz Qadri to death for the assassination of Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer. The case drew international attention and sparked debates over blasphemy laws in Pakistan. source: bbc.com
03 Oct Amanda Knox murder case appeal decision: On October 3, 2011, an Italian court overturned the conviction of Amanda Knox for the murder of Meredith Kercher. This decision was a pivotal moment in a highly publicized legal case that drew international attention. source: bbc.com
04 Oct Italian Wikipedia Protests Privacy Law: In a bold protest against Silvio Berlusconi's proposed internet and media restrictions, the Italian Wikipedia platform temporarily shut down to raise awareness about potential free speech limitations.
05 Oct Nazi concentration camp guard investigations reopened: On October 5, 2011, German authorities announced the reopening of investigations into former Nazi concentration camp guards. This decision was part of a broader effort to hold accountable those involved in war crimes during World War II. source: bbc.com
06 Oct Ichiro Ozawa Political Scandal Trial: The trial of Ichiro Ozawa, a prominent Japanese politician, began in Japan regarding a political funding scandal, potentially impacting the country's political landscape.
10 Oct Vincent Tabak Murder Trial: At Bristol Crown Court, Vincent Tabak was put on trial for the murder of Joanna Yeates, a British landscape architect.
13 Oct Hedge Fund Manager Sentenced for Insider Trading: Raj Rajaratnam, a prominent hedge fund manager, was sentenced to 11 years in prison for insider trading, marking a significant moment in financial regulation and corporate ethics.
16 Oct Bolivia's Historic Judicial Election: Bolivia conducted its first judicial election in Latin America, with opposition politicians encouraging citizens to vote as a form of protest against President Evo Morales's government.
17 Oct Egypt Bans Discrimination: Following violent clashes between security forces and Coptic protesters, Egypt's Supreme Council of the Armed Forces announced a law prohibiting all forms of discrimination, addressing sectarian tensions.
19 Oct Exotic Animal Farm Owner's Tragic Incident: In a shocking event in Muskingum County, Ohio, an exotic animal farm owner intentionally released 56 animals before committing suicide, creating a dangerous situation for local residents and wildlife.
25 Oct US Legal Action Against Equatorial Guinean Official: The United States Government initiated legal proceedings to seize US$70.8 million in assets from Teodoro Naguema Obiang Mandago, alleging corruption and graft.
26 Oct Argentina's Dirty War perpetrators convicted: On October 26, 2011, a court in Argentina convicted several individuals for crimes committed during the 'Dirty War' period (1976-1983). This marked a significant step towards justice for victims of human rights abuses during that era. source: bbc.com
31 Oct Mark Goodeau Convicted of Baseline Killer Murders: An Arizona jury convicted Mark Goodeau on all charges related to the Baseline Killer murders, bringing closure to a significant criminal case and delivering justice for the victims.
02 Nov Julian Assange loses extradition appeal: On November 2, 2011, Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, lost his appeal against extradition to Sweden to face sexual assault charges. source: theguardian.com
03 Nov Pakistani Cricket Spot-Fixing Scandal Concludes: Three Pakistani cricket players, Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif, along with manager Mazhar Majeed, are sentenced to prison for their involvement in a spot-fixing scandal, marking a significant moment in cricket's integrity efforts.
04 Nov Conrad Murray trial jury withdraws for deliberation: On November 4, 2011, the jury in the trial of Conrad Murray, the physician charged in the death of Michael Jackson, began deliberations. The case drew significant media attention and public interest due to its high-profile nature. source: bbc.com
05 Nov Penn State Sex Abuse Scandal: On November 5, 2011, former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky was charged with multiple counts of sexual abuse involving minors, leading to a major scandal at the university. source: nytimes.com
07 Nov Conrad Murray convicted in Michael Jackson's death: On November 7, 2011, Dr. Conrad Murray was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of pop icon Michael Jackson. The jury's decision followed a highly publicized trial that examined the circumstances surrounding Jackson's fatal overdose. source: bbc.com
11 Nov Papua New Guinea Political Turmoil: The Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea issued arrest orders for Belden Namah, Deputy Prime Minister, and Allan Marat, Attorney General, on contempt of court charges, revealing internal political tensions.
13 Nov Undercover police officer admits extensive international operations: On November 13, 2011, a former undercover police officer revealed details about his extensive operations abroad, including infiltration of various activist groups. His testimony raised concerns about police practices and the ethical implications of such undercover work. source: theguardian.com
15 Nov Occupy Wall Street Protest Clearance: New York City police cleared Zuccotti Park, arresting 140 protesters. Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg justified the action citing deteriorating health and safety conditions, marking a significant moment in the Occupy movement.
16 Nov White House Shooting Incident: Two bullets were discovered to have been fired at the White House in Washington, DC, with one striking a bullet-proof window, prompting a security investigation.
17 Nov Stop Online Piracy Act Proposed: The United States House of Representatives began considering the Stop Online Piracy Act, sparking debates about potential internet censorship and digital rights.
19 Nov Saif al-Islam Gaddafi Remains in Libya: Muammar Gaddafi's son Saif al-Islam Gaddafi was reported to be still in Libya, despite being wanted by the International Criminal Court for potential war crimes during the Libyan Civil War.
20 Nov Metropolitan Police Officers Stabbing Incident: In north London's Kingsbury area, a man was charged with attempted murder following a stabbing incident involving four Metropolitan Police officers. The event underscored ongoing challenges of public safety and potential risks faced by law enforcement personnel.
21 Nov Khmer Rouge leaders on trial for genocide: On November 21, 2011, the trial of senior Khmer Rouge leaders for genocide continued in Cambodia. This landmark trial aimed to address the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime in the late 1970s. source: bbc.com
28 Nov Judge Rejects SEC-Citigroup Settlement: Manhattan Judge Jed S. Rakoff denied a settlement agreement between the Securities and Exchange Commission and Citigroup, challenging the SEC's allegations of investor deception in portfolio investments.
29 Nov Breivik declared criminally insane by Norwegian court: Anders Behring Breivik was declared criminally insane by a Norwegian court, which ruled that he was suffering from a severe personality disorder at the time of his attacks in July 2011. This decision meant he would be committed to a psychiatric hospital rather than a prison. The ruling sparked significant debate about mental health and criminal responsibility in Norway. source: bbc.com
30 Nov Laurent Gbagbo transferred to International Criminal Court: Former Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo was transferred to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity. His transfer marked a significant moment in international justice, as it was the first time a former head of state was tried by the ICC. The charges stemmed from violence following the 2010 presidential election in Ivory Coast. source: bbc.com
03 Dec Deadly Traffic Accident in Brazil: A catastrophic collision between a truck and a bus near Milagro in northeastern Brazil resulted in 33 fatalities and 13 injuries, highlighting transportation safety concerns.
05 Dec Julian Assange Extradition Appeal: WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange sought permission to appeal to the United Kingdom's Supreme Court to prevent his extradition to Sweden regarding sexual assault allegations.
06 Dec US Mine Safety Report Released: The US Mine Safety and Health Administration published the final report on the Upper Big Branch Mine Disaster in Raleigh County, West Virginia, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 29 miners.
07 Dec Rod Blagojevich Sentenced for Corruption: Rod Blagojevich, the former governor of Illinois, is sentenced to 14 years in prison for corruption, marking a significant moment in American political corruption cases.
08 Dec Philippines Condemns China's Execution: Philippine officials expressed strong condemnation after the People's Republic of China executed a Filipino national convicted of drug trafficking, despite a humanitarian appeal for clemency from President Benigno Aquino III.
09 Dec West Bengal Government Revokes Hospital License: In response to the catastrophic fire, the West Bengal Government immediately canceled the operating license of AMRI Hospital, signaling serious administrative action against institutional negligence.
11 Dec Manuel Noriega Extradition: Former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega was extradited from France and the United States after serving 22 years in prison for his involvement in the assassination of political opponents, concluding a long-running international legal saga.
12 Dec Philippines Impeaches Chief Justice Renato Corona: The House of Representatives of the Philippines impeached Chief Judge Renato Corona after 188 members signed a complaint, marking the second significant impeachment proceeding of the year following Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez's impeachment in March.
13 Dec Police Rescue Boys from Karachi Dungeon: Pakistani police conducted a rescue operation in Karachi, freeing 50 boys from a horrific dungeon. The location was equipped with shackles and hooks, and the prisoners reported being threatened and beaten, with severe consequences threatened if they attempted to escape.
14 Dec Aftermath of Liege Attack Investigation: Belgian authorities discovered a woman's body at the residence of Nordine Amrani, the perpetrator of the Liege attack in 2011, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation of the tragic incident.
15 Dec Jacques Chirac convicted of corruption: On December 15, 2011, former French President Jacques Chirac was convicted of corruption related to his time as mayor of Paris. The court found him guilty of diverting public funds for political purposes, marking a significant moment in French political history. source: bbc.com
19 Dec Samsung-Apple Patent Dispute: Samsung Electronics announces new patent infringement claims against Apple in Germany, escalating the ongoing global patent war between the two technology giants.
20 Dec Syria's Controversial Anti-Terrorism Law: Syria announced a new law that would impose capital punishment on individuals involved in terrorist activities, raising significant human rights concerns.
22 Dec Brazil Seeks Charges Against Chevron: Brazilian authorities move to press environmental crime charges against Chevron and Transocean related to an oil leak in the Campos Basin.
23 Dec Chinese Dissident Sentenced: Chen Wei, a Chinese activist, was sentenced to nine years in prison for publishing online essays advocating for multiparty democracy, highlighting ongoing tensions between political dissent and state control in China.
24 Dec Cuba to Release Prisoners: Cuba announced plans to release 2,900 prisoners, including some political detainees, potentially signaling a significant gesture towards human rights and political reconciliation.
25 Dec Iranian Political Prosecution: Faezeh Hashemi Rafsanjani, a prominent Iranian political figure, was put on trial for allegedly making anti-regime propaganda statements, reflecting the ongoing political tensions and restrictions on dissent in Iran.
26 Dec Chinese activist sentenced to ten years: On December 26, 2011, Chinese activist Chen Wei was sentenced to ten years in prison for inciting subversion of state power. This sentence was part of a broader crackdown on dissent in China. source: bbc.com
27 Dec MF Global Bankruptcy Trustee Continues Asset Liquidation: A bankruptcy court judge confirmed that James Giddens, the trustee liquidating MF Global, and his law firm Hughes Hubbard & Reed are sufficiently 'disinterested' to continue managing the disposition of the firm's assets.
28 Dec Chinese railway corruption conviction: On December 28, 2011, a high-profile corruption case in China's railway sector concluded with convictions of several officials. This case underscored ongoing issues of corruption within the country's infrastructure projects. source: reuters.com

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