2014 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights

2014 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

01 Jan Colorado legalizes recreational marijuana: On January 1, 2014, Colorado became the first U.S. state to legalize recreational marijuana sales. This landmark decision marked a significant shift in drug policy and was closely watched by other states considering similar measures. source: bbc.com
03 Jan Sinaloa Cartel leader arrested: On December 30, 2013, Jose Rodrigo Arechiga-Gamboa, also known as "Chino Antrax," was arrested at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport at the request of the United States. He faced charges related to drug trafficking and was sought for extradition to the Southern District of California. source: justice.gov
10 Jan Spain offers citizenship to Sephardic Jews: On January 10, 2014, Spain announced a new law granting citizenship to descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled in the 15th century. The move aimed to acknowledge historical injustices and strengthen ties with Jewish communities worldwide. source: bbc.com
11 Jan Federal recognition of Utah same-sex marriages: On January 11, 2014, the U.S. federal government recognized same-sex marriages performed in Utah, following a federal judge's ruling that struck down the state's ban on such marriages. This decision marked a significant step in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. source: bbc.com
14 Jan Kerry Criticizes Nigeria's Anti-Gay Legislation: U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry strongly condemned Nigeria's new law banning same-sex marriage, which criminalizes gay rights activities and imposes penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment, highlighting international tensions over LGBTQ+ rights.
15 Jan Nigeria Passes Severe Anti-LGBT Legislation: Nigeria enacted a controversial law criminalizing same-sex marriage, with penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment, drawing international condemnation for human rights violations.
16 Jan Bernie Ecclestone Bribery Charges: A German court in Munich ruled that Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone should be charged with bribery, potentially causing significant disruption in the motorsport world.
18 Jan Construction Site Collapse in Goa: A tragic construction site accident in Goa, India, resulted in the collapse of a three-story building, causing 14 fatalities and highlighting serious safety concerns in the construction industry.
21 Jan Virginia Governor Corruption Indictment: Former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife were indicted on federal corruption charges, accused of receiving improper financial benefits from a businessman seeking state government favors.
22 Jan Investigation Ordered into Sunanda Pushkar's Death: A Delhi magistrate ordered an investigation into the death of Sunanda Pushkar, wife and political associate of Indian politician Shashi Tharoor, signaling potential legal proceedings in a high-profile case.
23 Jan Platon Lebedev Released by Russian Supreme Court: On January 23, 2014, the Russian Supreme Court ordered the release of Platon Lebedev, a former oil tycoon and associate of jailed opposition leader Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Lebedev had been serving a prison sentence on charges widely considered politically motivated. His release was seen as a potential step toward improving Russia's human rights record. source: reuters.com
24 Jan D'Souza Election Finance Charges: Conservative political commentator Dinesh D'Souza pleaded 'not guilty' to charges of violating U.S. Election Financing Laws, highlighting potential legal challenges in campaign finance.
27 Jan DOJ Reaches Agreement on Internet Privacy: The U.S. Justice Department negotiated a preliminary joint agreement with the Director of National Intelligence, potentially resolving a lawsuit concerning information disclosure by major internet companies in response to intelligence agency requests.
29 Jan Justin Bieber Turns Himself In: Canadian pop star Justin Bieber surrendered to Toronto Police on assault charges, marking another controversial moment in his public persona.
30 Jan Boston Marathon bombing prosecution: On January 30, 2014, the prosecution of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, accused of carrying out the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, began in Boston, Massachusetts. The trial addressed charges including murder and use of a weapon of mass destruction.
31 Jan Meredith Kercher Murder Case Developments: Raffaele Sollecito was detained at the Italian-Austrian border following a renewed murder conviction in the Meredith Kercher case. Amanda Knox, also convicted, stated she would not return to Italy, continuing the high-profile international legal saga.
03 Feb 2014 Moscow school shooting: On February 3, 2014, a shooting occurred at a school in Moscow, Russia, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident prompted a large-scale police response and raised concerns about school safety in the region. source: reuters.com
04 Feb FBI rescues children from sex trafficking: On February 4, 2014, the FBI announced the rescue of 16 minors and the arrest of 45 individuals involved in sex trafficking across New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Connecticut. The operation was part of the FBI's Lost Innocence Initiative, aiming to combat child prostitution and human trafficking. source: time.com
06 Feb Execution of Suzanne Basso: Texas executed Suzanne Basso, 59, for the 1998 torture and murder of Louis 'Buddy' Musso, a mentally impaired man. She was the 14th woman executed since the Supreme Court reinstated capital punishment in 1976.
07 Feb Schapelle Corby Released from Bali Prison: Australian Schapelle Corby is released on parole after serving nine years in a Bali prison for drug smuggling, concluding a high-profile international legal case.
10 Feb Irish Police Ombudsman headquarters illegally bugged: On February 10, 2014, it was revealed that the headquarters of the Irish Police Ombudsman had been illegally bugged. This incident raised serious concerns about privacy and the integrity of investigations into police conduct. source: bbc.com
13 Feb Virginia judge strikes down gay marriage ban: On February 13, 2014, a federal judge in Virginia ruled that the state's ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. The decision was a significant victory for LGBTQ rights activists and set the stage for same-sex marriages to begin in Virginia. source: nytimes.com
14 Feb Oscar Pistorius apologizes for Reeva Steenkamp's death: On February 14, 2014, South African athlete Oscar Pistorius apologized in court for the death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, during his trial for her murder. Pistorius expressed deep remorse and stated that he never intended to harm her. source: bbc.com
15 Feb Virginia same-sex marriage ban overturned: On February 15, 2014, a federal judge ruled that Virginia's ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, paving the way for same-sex couples to marry in the state. The decision was part of a broader trend of legal challenges to state bans on same-sex marriage. source: nytimes.com
17 Feb UN accuses North Korea of atrocities: On February 17, 2014, the United Nations released a report accusing North Korea of committing human rights abuses, including torture, executions, and forced labor, labeling the actions as crimes against humanity. source: un.org
18 Feb Philippines Cybercrime Prevention Act Upheld: The Supreme Court of the Philippines declares the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, which includes controversial libel provisions, as legally valid.
19 Feb Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Convicts to be Released: The government of Tamil Nadu, India, decides to release three men and one woman who were convicted of assassinating former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991.
20 Feb Mexican authorities arrest Sinaloa cartel leader: On February 20, 2014, Mexican authorities arrested Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán, the leader of the Sinaloa drug cartel, in a joint operation with U.S. law enforcement, marking a significant blow to the cartel's operations. source: en.wikipedia.org
21 Feb Sudan's Controversial Rape Trial: A married Ethiopian woman faces potential death penalty for adultery after being gang-raped, highlighting severe gender injustices in Sudanese legal system.
23 Feb Capture of Drug Lord 'El Chapo' Guzman: Mexican drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman was captured in a surprise joint operation by Mexican marines and U.S. DEA agents in Mazatlan, a significant blow to the Sinaloa drug cartel.
24 Feb Uganda Passes Anti-LGBT Legislation: President Yoweri Museveni signed a bill that discriminates against the LGBT community, drawing international condemnation.
25 Feb Asiana Airlines Fined for Inadequate Family Support: Following the 2013 Asiana Airlines accident, the airline was fined US$500,000 for failing to provide immediate and adequate assistance to the families of passengers involved in the incident. This penalty highlighted the importance of comprehensive support for victims and their families during aviation emergencies.
26 Feb Lee Rigby murder conviction: Michael Adebowale and Michael Adebolajo were convicted of the murder of British soldier Lee Rigby in 2013. The case drew significant media attention and raised discussions about extremism and security in the UK. source: bbc.com
27 Feb Arizona Governor Vetoes Anti-LGBT Bill: Governor Jan Brewer of Arizona vetoed a controversial bill that would have permitted businesses to discriminate against LGBT individuals under the guise of religious freedom, preventing potential legal discrimination.
28 Feb Ukrainian Prosecutors Call for Exile of Former Officials: Acting General Prosecutor Oleh Makhnitsky demands the exile of ousted President Viktor Yanukovych and 10 other high-ranking officials, including former Prosecutor Viktor Pshonka, Interior Minister Vitaliy Zakhaarchenko, and other key figures from the previous administration.
04 Mar Egypt Bans Hamas: An Egyptian court banned Hamas, the Palestinian group from Gaza, ordering the closure of all its offices and branding it a terrorist organization.
05 Mar Supreme Court Interprets Whistle-blower Protections: The U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark interpretation of Sarbanes-Oxley's whistle-blower provisions, extending legal protections to employees of privately-owned companies contracted with public corporations.
11 Mar Caribbean Countries Sue European Nations: Fourteen Caribbean countries initiated a lawsuit against France, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands, seeking damages for historical harm caused during the Atlantic slave trade.
12 Mar Israel Passes Military Service Law: The Knesset passed a controversial law imposing criminal penalties on yeshiva students who avoid mandatory military service in Israel's Defense Forces. The law was approved almost unanimously, with only one dissenting vote from Yoni Chetboun of the Jewish Home party.
13 Mar Brett Peter Cowan Sentenced for Daniel Morcombe Murder: Brett Peter Cowan was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the December 2003 murder of Daniel Morcombe, including charges of murder, corpse interference, and indecent treatment of a child under 16.
14 Mar Rwandan genocide war criminal sentenced: On March 14, 2014, a Rwandan war criminal was sentenced to life in prison for his role in the 1994 genocide. This sentencing was part of ongoing efforts to bring justice for the atrocities committed during the genocide, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands. source: bbc.com
19 Mar Toyota Pays $1.2 Billion for Safety Deception: Toyota was required to pay a substantial $1.2 billion fine to resolve charges of misleading safety investigators about fatal accelerator defects in the United States, marking a significant corporate accountability moment.
21 Mar Michigan same-sex marriage ban overturned: On March 21, 2014, a federal judge ruled that Michigan's ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, allowing same-sex couples to marry in the state. This decision was a significant milestone in the fight for marriage equality in the United States. source: cnbc.com
23 Mar Shrien Dewani Extradition: Shrien Dewani's extradition to South Africa was scheduled for April 7, 2014, to face trial for the murder of his wife Anni Dewani.
24 Mar Mass Death Sentence in Egypt: A court in Minya, Egypt, sentences 528 supporters of former President Mohammed Morsi to death for various offenses, including murder and property attacks. This is considered the most severe mass death sentence in recent world history.
25 Mar MF Global Lawsuit Against Jon Corzine Permitted: The U.S. District Court ruled that the MF Global trustee may proceed with a lawsuit against former CEO Jon Corzine, potentially holding him accountable for the firm's financial misconduct.
26 Mar Turkish court lifts Twitter ban: On March 26, 2014, a Turkish court ruled to lift a ban on Twitter, which had been imposed by the government. The decision was seen as a victory for freedom of expression in Turkey amid ongoing debates about internet censorship. source: bbc.com
27 Mar UN Investigates Sri Lankan War Crimes: The United Nations Human Rights Council authorized an international investigation into potential war crimes committed during the Sri Lankan Civil War, signaling a commitment to accountability and justice for historical conflicts.
28 Mar Shooting Incident in Brampton, Ontario: A shooting incident in Brampton, Ontario, Canada resulted in one shooter being killed and one police officer injured.
30 Mar Philippines files South China Sea case against China: On March 30, 2014, the Philippines filed a case against China at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, challenging China's extensive claims in the South China Sea. The Philippines sought to clarify maritime entitlements and assert its rights over areas within its exclusive economic zone. source: reuters.com
31 Mar International Court ruling against Japanese whaling: On March 31, 2014, the International Court of Justice ruled that Japan's whaling program in the Antarctic was not for scientific purposes and ordered Japan to halt its whaling activities, marking a significant victory for conservationists. source: icj-cij.org
01 Apr Irish Prison Service Surveillance Revelation: Taoiseach Enda Kenny reveals to the Dáil that the Prison Service had been recording conversations between prisoners and their legal representatives, raising significant legal and ethical concerns.
03 Apr Sophie Toscan du Plantier Murder Investigation: The Garda Phone Recordings Controversy revealed 133 recorded conversations between law enforcement, witnesses, and journalists regarding the 1996 murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier.
04 Apr Court Stenographer Fabricates Transcripts: A Manhattan court stenographer was discovered to have been writing nonsense instead of actual court transcripts, potentially compromising approximately thirty court cases.
08 Apr European Court of Justice invalidates Data Retention Directive: On April 8, 2014, the European Court of Justice declared the EU's Data Retention Directive invalid, ruling that it violated fundamental rights to privacy and personal data protection. The directive had mandated the retention of telecommunications data for up to two years for law enforcement purposes. source: edps.europa.eu
09 Apr Bank of America Restitution Payment: Bank of America agreed to pay $727 million in customer restitution for deceptive marketing and unfair billing practices, with an additional $45 million in penalties to government regulatory agencies, highlighting ongoing financial industry accountability.
11 Apr Suspect arrested in Omagh bombing case: On April 11, 2014, a suspect was arrested in connection with the 1998 Omagh bombing in Northern Ireland, which had resulted in 29 deaths. The arrest was part of ongoing efforts to bring closure to the victims' families and address unresolved cases from the Troubles. source: bbc.com
12 Apr Bundy Ranch Standoff Resolution: The Bureau of Land Management agreed to release the Bundy family's cattle, concluding a controversial land use dispute that had drawn national attention.
13 Apr Fatal Bus Collision in Mexico: A tragic bus accident between Villahermosa and Mexico City resulted in a fiery collision with a tractor-trailer, claiming at least 36 lives in a devastating road incident.
14 Apr Pulitzer Prize for NSA surveillance reporting: On April 14, 2014, the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service was awarded to The Guardian and The Washington Post for their reporting on the National Security Agency's surveillance programs, based on leaks from former NSA contractor Edward Snowden. source: pulitzer.org
15 Apr Berlusconi Community Service Sentence: Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is sentenced to one year of community service for tax fraud, reflecting ongoing legal challenges for the controversial politician.
18 Apr South Korean Ferry Sewol Disaster: The South Korean ferry Sewol capsized, resulting in 28 deaths. Prosecutors issued an arrest warrant for Captain Lee Joon-seok and two other crew members, initiating a criminal investigation into the tragic incident.
24 Apr Bundy Controversy Escalates: The Nevada Bundy dispute intensified as politicians began distancing themselves from Cliven Bundy after his controversial remarks suggesting African Americans might have been better off under slavery.
25 Apr UK Government Investigates Wikipedia Vandalism: Following a report by the Liverpool Echo about offensive Hillsborough-related comments made using Whitehall computers, the UK government initiated an official inquiry.
27 Apr Egyptian Court Sentences Morsi Supporters: An Egyptian court handed down severe prison sentences to 11 supporters of deposed President Mohammed Morsi for participating in riots, with sentences ranging from 5 to 88 years, reflecting the ongoing political tensions in the country.
28 Apr Egyptian court recommends death penalty for 683 Muslim Brotherhood supporters: An Egyptian court recommended the death penalty for 683 members and supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood, including the organization's Supreme Guide Mohamed Badie. The defendants were charged with the murder or attempted murder of police officers during disturbances in August. The sentences were pending review by Egypt's highest religious authority, the Mufti. source: time.com
29 Apr Botched Execution of Clayton Lockett: A controversial execution in Oklahoma where Clayton Lockett died from a heart attack following a problematic lethal injection procedure. This incident reignited national debates about capital punishment methods and their potential cruelty.
30 Apr Gerry Adams arrested for historical murder: Gerry Adams, leader of Sinn Féin, was arrested in Northern Ireland on April 30, 2014, in connection with the 1972 murder of Jean McConville, a mother of ten. Adams was questioned by police but denied any involvement in the killing, which had been a subject of controversy for decades. source: bbc.com
04 May Gerry Adams Arrested and Released in Jean McConville Murder Case: On May 4, 2014, Gerry Adams, leader of Sinn Féin, was arrested in connection with the 1972 murder of Jean McConville, a mother of ten and alleged informant for the British Army. Adams was questioned by police but released without charge, maintaining his innocence throughout the investigation. source: bbc.com
05 May Supreme Court Ruling on Legislative Prayer: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Establishment Clause does not prohibit opening legislative sessions with prayers, effectively affirming the constitutionality of prayer in government proceedings.
06 May Egyptian court bans NDP officials: On May 6, 2014, an Egyptian court issued a ruling banning officials of the dissolved National Democratic Party (NDP) from political activities for five years. This decision was part of the ongoing efforts to dismantle remnants of the former regime. source: aljazeera.com
12 May European Court Orders Turkey to Pay Cyprus Invasion Damages: On May 12, 2014, the European Court of Human Rights ordered Turkey to pay 90 million euros to Cyprus over the 1974 invasion of the island and its subsequent division. The court held that Turkey was to pay Cyprus 30 million euros in respect of the non-pecuniary damage suffered by the relatives of the missing persons, and 60 million euros in respect of the non-pecuniary damage suffered by the enclaved Greek-Cypriot residents of the Karpas peninsula. source: dw.com
13 May Former Israeli PM Sentenced for Bribery: Ehud Olmert, a former Prime Minister of Israel, was sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted in a significant bribery case, marking a notable moment in Israeli political accountability.
14 May Idaho Gay Marriage Ban Overturned: A judge struck down Idaho's constitutional amendment banning gay marriage, marking another legal victory for marriage equality in the United States.
15 May MV Sewol Sinking: Crew Charged: On May 15, 2014, the crew of the MV Sewol, a ferry that sank off the coast of South Korea in April 2014, were charged with gross negligence and homicide. The sinking resulted in the deaths of over 300 people, mostly high school students. source: aljazeera.com
18 May Arrests in Soma mine tragedy investigation: On May 18, 2014, authorities announced arrests related to the investigation of the Soma mine tragedy in Turkey, where a catastrophic explosion had occurred. This event raised questions about mining safety regulations. source: reuters.com
19 May U.S. charges Chinese military officers for cyber espionage: On May 19, 2014, the U.S. government announced charges against several Chinese military officers for cyber espionage, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations. This was the first time the U.S. had formally charged foreign military officials for cyber crimes. source: nytimes.com
20 May Tragic Child Homicide in Torrance: A horrific incident occurred where three young children, aged 2 to 3 years old, were killed at their home in Torrance. The children's mother was subsequently charged with murder.
21 May Egyptian Court Sentences Muslim Brotherhood Members: An Egyptian court delivered a harsh verdict against 155 Muslim Brotherhood members, sentencing 54 to life imprisonment, reflecting the ongoing political crackdown on the organization following the 2013 coup.
23 May Russia and China veto Syria war crimes investigation: On May 23, 2014, Russia and China vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution that sought to refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court for war crimes investigation. This marked a significant setback for efforts to hold accountable those responsible for atrocities during the Syrian civil war. source: bbc.com
28 May Sinaloa Cartel Leader Extradition: Dutch authorities approved the extradition of Jose Rodrigo Arechiga Gamboa, known as 'El Chino Antrax', a leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, to the United States.
30 May FBI and SEC Investigate Potential Insider Trading: The Wall Street Journal reported an investigation by the FBI and SEC into potential insider trading involving billionaire Carl Icahn, investor Billy Walters, and golf star Phil Mickelson, though no wrongdoing was confirmed.
02 Jun Obama Accused of Violating Defense Authorization Act: President Obama faces accusations of breaking the National Defense Authorization Act (Fiscal Year 2013) by failing to notify Congress about the release of Guantanamo Bay prisoners in the Bowe Bergdahl exchange, raising questions about executive transparency and legal compliance.
03 Jun MQM Party Leader Arrested in London: London police arrest Altaf Hussain, leader of Pakistan's MQM Party, on suspicion of money laundering, creating significant political ripples.
04 Jun Mexico Increases Kidnapping Sentences: Mexico enacted a new law significantly increasing penalties for kidnapping, with minimum sentences of 40 years and maximum sentences of 50 years, aimed at combating organized crime.
05 Jun Farzana Parveen Stoning Investigation: Pakistani police continued their investigation into the horrific honor killing of Farzana Parveen, arresting multiple suspects and bringing the total number of individuals in custody to 12. This case highlights ongoing issues of gender-based violence in the region.
06 Jun Moncton Shooting Arrest: Canadian police arrested Justin Bourque for the alleged murders of three Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers and the shooting of two other individuals in Moncton, New Brunswick, highlighting a tragic incident of violence.
09 Jun Syrian government announces general amnesty: On June 9, 2014, the Syrian government declared a general amnesty, offering pardons to individuals involved in the ongoing civil war, in an effort to encourage reconciliation. source: aljazeera.com
11 Jun Spree Killer Released: Mattias Flink, known as the Spree Killer, was released from prison on the 20th anniversary of his crimes.
13 Jun Guccifer Hacking Indictment: Romanian hacker Guccifer was indicted in absentia by a federal court in Virginia for illegally accessing emails of American officials and their families, highlighting cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
18 Jun Benghazi attack suspect captured: On June 18, 2014, U.S. officials confirmed the capture of a suspect linked to the 2012 Benghazi attack that killed four Americans. This operation was part of ongoing efforts to bring those responsible for the attack to justice. source: reuters.com
19 Jun Redskins Trademark Registration Rescinded: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office revoked the Washington Redskins' trademark registration, determining the team's name to be disparaging and potentially offensive.
20 Jun Egyptian court confirms mass death sentences for Muslim Brotherhood leaders: On June 20, 2014, an Egyptian court upheld mass death sentences for several leaders of the Muslim Brotherhood, a decision that drew international condemnation and highlighted the ongoing political tensions in Egypt. source: reuters.com
21 Jun Belarusian Human Rights Activist Released: Ales Bialiatski, a prominent Belarusian human rights activist, was released from prison and warmly greeted by his wife and supporters in Minsk, symbolizing ongoing struggles for human rights in Belarus.
22 Jun RCMP Recaptures Helicopter Jail Escapees: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) successfully captured three men who had previously escaped from a Quebec City jail via helicopter on July 7, concluding a high-profile manhunt.
23 Jun Egyptian Journalists Sentenced: Three journalists - Peter Greste, Mohammed Fahmy, and Baher Mohamed - are sentenced to seven years in prison by an Egyptian court, accused of supporting the Muslim Brotherhood.
24 Jun MV Sewol disaster trial begins in South Korea: On June 24, 2014, the trial related to the MV Sewol ferry disaster began in South Korea. This tragic incident, which occurred in April 2014, resulted in significant loss of life and raised questions about safety regulations and accountability. source: reuters.com
25 Jun Supreme Court rules warrant required for cell phone searches: In a unanimous decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement must obtain a warrant before searching the digital contents of a cell phone seized from an individual who has been arrested. This landmark ruling emphasizes the protection of digital privacy under the Fourth Amendment. source: wyden.senate.gov
26 Jun Xinjiang Terrorism Sentencing: Chinese authorities in the Xinjiang Region sentenced 9 individuals to imprisonment of up to 14 years for terrorist offenses, highlighting the region's ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
28 Jun Benghazi attack suspect pleads not guilty: Ahmed Abu Khattala, a Libyan militant accused of leading the 2012 attack on the U.S. diplomatic mission in Benghazi, appeared in a Washington D.C. federal court and pleaded not guilty to a charge of conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists. His capture and subsequent arraignment marked a significant development in the pursuit of justice for the four Americans killed in the attack. source: cbsnews.com
30 Jun Rolf Harris Convicted of Indecent Assault: Australian entertainer Rolf Harris was convicted in London of 12 counts of indecent assault against young girls between 1968 and 1986. The 84-year-old was set to be sentenced on July 4th.
01 Jul Malaysia to Extradite Diplomat Accused of Sexual Assault: Malaysia announced it will extradite a junior military officer who was charged with sexual assault during a diplomatic mission in New Zealand, demonstrating commitment to addressing diplomatic misconduct.
02 Jul Kentucky gay marriage ban ruled unconstitutional: On July 2, 2014, a federal judge ruled that Kentucky's ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. The ruling stated that the ban violated the Equal Protection and Due Process Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment. This decision was part of a series of legal challenges to same-sex marriage bans across the United States, reflecting the ongoing national debate over marriage equality. source: courier-journal.com
04 Jul UN recognizes same-sex unions: On July 4, 2014, the United Nations Human Rights Committee recognized same-sex unions as a human right under international law. The committee's decision stated that countries must provide legal recognition and protection to same-sex couples, affirming the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals globally. This landmark ruling was hailed as a significant advancement for human rights and equality. source: un.org
08 Jul UN Arbitration in Bay of Bengal Dispute: The United Nations Permanent Court of Arbitration rules in favor of Bangladesh in a territorial dispute over the Bay of Bengal.
09 Jul Nadiya Savchenko detained in Russia: On July 9, 2014, Ukrainian pilot Nadiya Savchenko was detained in Russia. She was accused of being involved in the death of two Russian journalists in eastern Ukraine. Savchenko's detention led to international condemnation and strained relations between Russia and Ukraine. source: bbc.com
10 Jul Myanmar Journalists Sentenced for Investigative Reporting: A court in Myanmar sentenced four journalists and the editor of the Unity journal to ten years of hard labor for publishing what were deemed state secrets in a series of investigative reports about a weapons factory, raising significant press freedom concerns.
17 Jul California death penalty ruled unconstitutional: On July 17, 2014, a federal judge ruled California's death penalty unconstitutional, citing its arbitrary application and lengthy delays. This decision sparked discussions on capital punishment in the state. source: nytimes.com
22 Jul Contradictory Court Decisions on Obamacare Subsidies: The United States Fourth and D.C. Circuit Courts render contradictory decisions regarding whether people who enroll under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) can receive subsidies.
26 Jul Turkish Police Wiretapping Scandal: Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency reported that twenty police officers were charged with illegal wiretapping of Turkish officials, including Recep Tayyip Erdan, with an additional 49 officers under investigation.
27 Jul Fatal Home Attack in Maine: A tragic incident in Saco, Maine, where five relatives are killed in a home attack, shocking the local community.
28 Jul Israeli Report on Journalist Threats: Israeli officials released a report documenting instances of journalists being threatened after attempting to report on potential war crimes committed by Hamas.
01 Aug Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Act Invalidated: The Constitutional Court of Uganda declared the Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2014 invalid on a technical grounds, marking a significant moment for LGBTQ+ rights in the country.
04 Aug Deadly Industrial Explosion in China: A catastrophic explosion at an auto parts plant in Kunshan, China resulted in 75 fatalities. Investigators attributed the tragedy to severe lapses in safety protocols and procedures.
06 Aug Xinjiang Implements Controversial Transport Restrictions: Officials in Karamay, Xinjiang, China, temporarily ban Islamic headscarves, specific clothing, and beards from public transport following regional violence.
07 Aug Khmer Rouge leaders convicted of crimes against humanity: On August 7, 2014, Nuon Chea and Khieu Samphan, senior leaders of Cambodia's Khmer Rouge regime, were convicted by the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) for crimes against humanity, including extermination and political persecution. Both received life sentences. This trial addressed atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge's rule from 1975 to 1979, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1.7 million people. source: washingtonpost.com
08 Aug NCAA Antitrust Ruling on College Athletes' Compensation: U.S. District Court Judge Claudia Wilken ruled that the NCAA had violated antitrust laws by restricting compensation for college athletes' publicity rights, marking a significant moment in collegiate sports governance.
12 Aug Philippine General 'The Butcher' Arrested: Jovito Palparan, a former Philippine Army general nicknamed 'The Butcher', was detained in Manila for his alleged involvement in the disappearances of human rights activists Sherlyn Capac and Karen Empeno.
15 Aug Texas Governor Rick Perry Indicted: Texas Governor Rick Perry was indicted on felony charges of abuse of power, accused of attempting to coerce the resignation of a District Attorney convicted of drunk driving by threatening to veto funding for state corruption prosecutors.
18 Aug Israeli Defense Forces demolish homes of suspected murderers: On August 18, 2014, the Israeli Defense Forces demolished the homes of Palestinians suspected of involvement in the kidnapping and murder of three Israeli teenagers in June 2014. source: bbc.com
22 Aug David Eastman Murder Conviction: After serving a 19-year sentence, David Eastman was convicted of murdering Colin Winchester, the former Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner, marking a significant legal resolution.
26 Aug Rotherham child sexual exploitation scandal report published: On August 26, 2014, the UK government published a report detailing widespread child sexual exploitation in Rotherham, England. The report revealed that over 1,400 children were sexually exploited between 1997 and 2013, with authorities failing to act. source: bbc.com
27 Aug Christine Lagarde Under Investigation: Christine Lagarde, the Chief of the International Monetary Fund, is being investigated in France for alleged negligence related to her actions during her tenure as Minister of Finance.
28 Aug Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 Search Agreement: Australia, Malaysia, and China reached a collaborative agreement on the continued search for Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, believed to have crashed in the Indian Ocean southwest of Western Australia.
29 Aug Australian Competition and Consumer Commission sues Valve Corporation: On August 29, 2014, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission filed a lawsuit against Valve Corporation, alleging that the company refused to provide refunds to Australian consumers, violating consumer protection laws. source: accc.gov.au
01 Sep Shooting at Work and Income office in Ashburton, New Zealand: On September 1, 2014, a gunman opened fire at a Work and Income office in Ashburton, New Zealand, killing two employees and injuring another. The shooter was apprehended at the scene and later sentenced to life imprisonment. source: stuff.co.nz
02 Sep Kenyan Politician Charged with Murder in Australia: Quincy Timberlake, a former Kenyan presidential candidate, is being charged with murder in Brisbane, Australia, highlighting international legal proceedings.
06 Sep Egypt's Legal Action Against Morsi: Egyptian authorities accused former president Mohammed Morsi and nine other individuals of leaking sensitive government information to Qatar, signaling ongoing political tensions.
09 Sep Mosque Roof Collapse in Lahore: A tragic mosque roof collapse in Daroghawala, a low-income neighborhood of Lahore, Pakistan, resulted in at least nine fatalities, highlighting infrastructure vulnerabilities in the region.
11 Sep Oscar Pistorius Trial Verdict: On September 11, 2014, South African Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius was found guilty of culpable homicide for the shooting death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, and was sentenced to five years in prison. source: bbc.com
12 Sep Adrian Peterson indicted on child injury charges: Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson was indicted in Montgomery County, Texas, on charges of injury to a child after allegedly using a switch to spank his 4-year-old son. Peterson turned himself in and was released on $15,000 bail. The Vikings deactivated him for the upcoming game against the New England Patriots. source: time.com
13 Sep Taiwan Food Scandal Arrest: Yeh Wenhsiang, chairman of Chang Guann Co, was taken into custody in connection with the 2014 Taiwan food scandal, signaling ongoing investigations into food safety and corporate fraud.
14 Sep Synagogue Church Collapse in Nigeria: A tragic building collapse at T. B. Joshua's Synagogue Church of All Nations in Lagos, Nigeria, resulted in 40 fatalities, drawing attention to structural safety issues.
16 Sep Russian Billionaire Arrested: Russian billionaire Vladimir Yevtushenkov was placed under house arrest on allegations of money laundering, indicating potential high-level corruption investigations in Russia.
24 Sep Hannah Graham Disappearance: Hannah Graham, a British student at the University of Virginia, was reported missing, sparking a significant search and investigation that would later lead to an arrest.
25 Sep Eric Holder resigns as U.S. Attorney General: Eric Holder announced his resignation as the U.S. Attorney General, concluding a tenure marked by significant legal and policy decisions. His resignation set the stage for President Obama's nomination of a successor. source: nytimes.com
26 Sep 43 students kidnapped in Iguala, Mexico: In Iguala, Mexico, 43 students were abducted by local police and allegedly handed over to a drug gang. This incident sparked widespread protests and international condemnation, highlighting issues of corruption and human rights abuses in Mexico. source: bbc.com
27 Sep UN Human Rights Council Supports LGBT Rights: The United Nations Human Rights Council takes a significant step by voting in support of LGBT rights, marking a progressive moment in international human rights advocacy.
29 Sep California Passes Groundbreaking Sexual Consent Law: California became the first U.S. state to legally define sexual consent through the 'yes means yes' law, representing a significant advancement in addressing sexual assault and consent standards.
08 Oct Mass graves of missing Mexican students discovered: On October 8, 2014, Mexican authorities announced the discovery of mass graves containing the remains of missing students from Ayotzinapa. The students had been abducted in September, leading to widespread protests and international condemnation. The discovery intensified calls for justice and accountability. source: bbc.com
09 Oct Mexican Drug Lord Arrested: Vicente Carrillo Fuentes, a prominent Mexican drug lord, was apprehended and is currently being held in Torreon, marking a significant law enforcement action against organized crime.
13 Oct US Marine Detained for Murder in Philippines: A United States Marine was detained aboard the USS Peleliu after allegedly murdering Jennifer Laude, a Filipino transgender woman, sparking international tensions and discussions about military conduct abroad.
14 Oct School Stabbing in Czech Republic: A tragic incident occurred at a secondary school in Zdar nad Sazavou, Czech Republic, where a woman with schizophrenia stabbed three students and a police negotiator, resulting in the death of a 16-year-old boy.
16 Oct Serial Killer Arrest in Brazil: Brazilian authorities arrested Thiago Henrique Da Rocha, a police officer suspected of murdering at least 39 people over three years. The victims included vulnerable populations such as homeless individuals, women, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting serious social violence issues.
18 Oct Supreme Court upholds Texas voter ID law: On October 18, 2014, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene in a lower court's decision, effectively allowing Texas's strict voter ID law to remain in effect for the upcoming elections. The law required voters to present specific forms of photo identification at polling places, a measure that had been challenged for potentially disenfranchising minority voters. source: nytimes.com
20 Oct Deadly Bus Collision in Bangladesh: A tragic traffic accident on the Dhaka–Rajshahi highway resulted in at least 30 fatalities when two buses collided, highlighting ongoing road safety challenges in Bangladesh.
21 Oct Oscar Pistorius sentenced for murder: On October 21, 2014, South African athlete Oscar Pistorius was sentenced to six years in prison for the murder of Reeva Steenkamp. The case drew international attention and raised discussions about gun laws in South Africa. source: bbc.com
22 Oct Blackwater guards convicted: On October 22, 2014, a U.S. court convicted several Blackwater guards for their roles in the 2007 Nisour Square shooting in Iraq, which resulted in the deaths of 17 Iraqi civilians. The case highlighted issues of accountability for private military contractors. source: nytimes.com
25 Oct U.S. federal recognition of same-sex marriage expands: On October 25, 2014, the U.S. federal government expanded its recognition of same-sex marriages, allowing same-sex couples to access federal benefits and protections previously available only to opposite-sex couples. source: nytimes.com
30 Oct Eric Frein Arrested: Eric Frein was taken into custody in Pennsylvania for an attack on a State Police barracks that resulted in one officer's death and another's injury, concluding a significant manhunt and bringing a dangerous suspect to justice.
31 Oct American Marine Released in Mexico: A Mexican judge releases an American Marine Corps member who was detained for eight months after crossing the border with loaded firearms, resolving a diplomatic and legal standoff.
04 Nov Marijuana Legalization in Alaska and Oregon: Voters in Alaska and Oregon approved ballot measures to legalize recreational marijuana, reflecting shifting public attitudes towards cannabis regulation.
07 Nov Supreme Court to review Affordable Care Act subsidies: The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case regarding subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, which could impact millions of Americans. The decision was seen as a pivotal moment for healthcare policy in the country. source: washingtonpost.com
08 Nov South Korea Disbands Coast Guard After Ferry Disaster: Following criticism of its response to the Sewol ferry disaster, South Korea's National Assembly announced the dissolution of its coast guard, transferring its duties to the National Police Agency.
10 Nov Lithuanian Spy Charges Against State Employee: Lithuanian authorities charged an employee of the state air navigation company with espionage, specifically spying on Belarus for civilian and military operations.
13 Nov Doctor Arrested in Sterilization Deaths: An Indian doctor is arrested in connection with the deaths of 13 women at a state-run sterilization center in Chhattisgarh, raising serious concerns about medical malpractice and women's health.
14 Nov UN criticizes US police excessive force: On November 14, 2014, the United Nations Human Rights Committee criticized the United States for its use of excessive force by police, particularly in incidents involving African Americans. The committee called for reforms to address systemic issues within law enforcement agencies and to ensure accountability for human rights violations. source: aljazeera.com
17 Nov Beltran Leyva Cartel Leader Extradited: On November 17, 2014, the leader of the Beltran Leyva drug cartel, Hector Beltran Leyva, was extradited from Mexico to the United States to face charges related to drug trafficking and organized crime. source: bbc.com
18 Nov Human Rights Violation in Democratic Republic of Congo: Human Rights Watch reported that 51 people were killed by police in Kinshasa during extrajudicial killings targeting kuluna gangs, raising significant human rights concerns.
20 Nov Montana Gay Marriage Ban Ruled Unconstitutional: A judge declares Montana's ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, continuing the nationwide trend of legal challenges to marriage equality restrictions.
21 Nov House Republicans sue President Obama: House Republicans filed a lawsuit against President Obama, claiming he overstepped his authority with his immigration executive order. This legal action was part of ongoing partisan disputes over executive power and immigration policy. source: reuters.com
23 Nov Ozone Disco Fire Legal Proceedings: Philippine authorities charged security officers with negligence regarding safety protocols during the deadly 1996 Ozone disco fire, a significant case in Philippine legal history.
25 Nov Jose Socrates Corruption Arrest: Former Portuguese Prime Minister Jose Socrates was arrested by Portuguese police on charges of corruption, fiscal fraud, and money laundering, signaling a significant political accountability moment.
26 Nov Egyptian Court Sentences Teenage Protesters: An Egyptian court sentenced 78 teenagers to prison terms of 2-5 years for participating in rallies supporting ousted President Mohammed Mursi, reflecting the ongoing political repression following the 2013 military coup.
28 Nov Finland Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: The Finnish Parliament made history by approving same-sex marriage through a citizen's initiative, marking a significant milestone in LGBTQ+ rights and democratic participation.
29 Nov Darren Wilson resigns from Ferguson Police Department: Darren Wilson, the police officer who fatally shot Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, resigned from the police force, citing threats of violence against the department and the public. Wilson stated he was not willing to let someone else get hurt because of him. His resignation followed a grand jury's decision not to indict him, which had led to widespread protests and unrest. source: washingtonpost.com
03 Dec Italian Police Arrest Mafia and Corrupt Officials: Italian law enforcement conducts a major operation, arresting a combination of mafia members, corrupt politicians, and a suspected terrorist involved in a complex corruption scandal exploiting vulnerable migrant populations.
05 Dec Zhou Yongkang corruption case: On December 5, 2014, Chinese authorities announced the indictment of Zhou Yongkang, a former member of the Politburo Standing Committee, on charges of corruption and abuse of power. source: bbc.com
08 Dec Obama announces restrictions on racial profiling: On December 8, 2014, President Obama announced new federal guidelines to limit the use of racial profiling by law enforcement agencies, aiming to build trust between communities and police. source: reuters.com
09 Dec CIA torture report details revealed: On December 9, 2014, the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee released a report detailing the CIA's use of enhanced interrogation techniques, sparking debates over the ethics and legality of such practices. source: reuters.com
12 Dec Shooting at Portland High School: Four people were shot by an unknown gunman outside Rosemary Anderson High School in Portland, Oregon. Police subsequently questioned a 22-year-old man in connection with the incident.
15 Dec US Supreme Court Evidence Ruling: On December 15, 2014, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling in the case of Kansas v. Cheever, determining that a defendant's mental state can be used as evidence in a criminal trial, even if the defendant did not testify. The decision clarified the application of the Fifth Amendment in relation to self-incrimination and the use of psychiatric evaluations in court proceedings. source: supremecourt.gov
17 Dec Pakistan lifts death penalty moratorium after Peshawar school massacre: Following the Peshawar school massacre, Pakistan lifted its moratorium on the death penalty on December 17, 2014. The government aimed to expedite the execution of convicted terrorists as part of a broader strategy to combat terrorism. source: bbc.com
18 Dec George Stinney Jr. posthumous exoneration: On December 18, 2014, George Stinney Jr., who was executed in 1944 for the murder of two white girls, was posthumously exonerated by a South Carolina judge. The ruling highlighted racial injustices in the legal system. source: bbc.com
19 Dec Sun Hung Kai Properties Trial: In a significant legal proceeding, former Hong Kong Chief Secretary Rafael Hui was convicted of bribery, while Sun Hung Kai Properties tycoon Raymond Kwok was acquitted, and his brother Thomas was convicted of office misconduct.
20 Dec Mother arrested in Cairns child murders case: On December 20, 2014, the mother of seven children was arrested in Cairns, Australia, in connection with the deaths of her children. The children, aged between 2 and 14, were found dead in their home on December 19, 2014. The mother was charged with multiple counts of murder. source: abc.net.au
21 Dec Jordan Resumes Capital Punishment: Jordan ended an eight-year informal moratorium on executions by executing 11 individuals, sparking international debate about capital punishment and human rights.
22 Dec Tragic Dustbin Truck Accident in Glasgow: A horrific accident in Glasgow, Scotland, involving an out-of-control dustbin truck resulted in the deaths of at least six people in the city's Queen Street and George Square areas.
24 Dec Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Hacking Investigation: South Korea requests investigative assistance from China regarding a cyber intrusion into Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power, raising concerns about cybersecurity in critical infrastructure.
29 Dec China Blocks Gmail Services: The Chinese government implements restrictions on some Gmail services, further demonstrating its internet censorship policies.
30 Dec Navalny Receives Suspended Sentence: A Moscow court sentenced prominent anti-Putin activist Alexei Navalny to a one-year suspended sentence on corruption charges.

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