2015 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights

2015 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

01 Jan Palestine accepts ICC jurisdiction: On January 1, 2015, the Palestinian government declared its acceptance of the International Criminal Court's jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed in the occupied Palestinian territories since June 13, 2014. source: icc-cpi.int
04 Jan Boston Marathon bombing trial jury selection begins: On January 4, 2015, jury selection began for the trial of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, accused of carrying out the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. source: boston.com
06 Jan Former Virginia Governor Sentenced: Bob McDonnell, former Governor of Virginia, was sentenced to two years in prison for corruption, highlighting ongoing issues of political misconduct in the United States.
08 Jan Journalist Assassination in Philippines: Nerlita Ledesma, a journalist for the Philippine tabloid Abante, was shot and killed by an unknown gunman. This tragic event marked the 172nd journalist assassination since the return to democracy in 1986.
09 Jan Raif Badawi Lashing Sentence: Saudi Arabian blogger Raif Badawi received 50 lashes as part of a controversial punishment for allegedly insulting Islam. His total sentence includes ten years imprisonment and 1,000 lashes, to be administered in weekly installments of 50 lashes.
12 Jan Russian Serviceman Commits Horrific Murder in Armenia: Valeri Permyakov, a Russian serviceman stationed at the 102nd Military Base, committed a heinous crime by killing six family members, including a two-year-old child, in Gyumri, Armenia. The incident triggered an extensive manhunt by Armenian security forces.
13 Jan Mubarak Legal Proceedings: Egypt's highest court overturned the remaining conviction against former President Hosni Mubarak and initiated a retrial, marking another complex chapter in the country's post-revolutionary legal landscape.
14 Jan Major Restructuring in U.S. Secret Service: Four top U.S. Secret Service leaders were removed, and a fifth retired, following a series of security breaches and organizational challenges that began at the 6th Summit of the Americas.
16 Jan Supreme Court to hear same-sex marriage case: On January 16, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case regarding same-sex marriage, which would ultimately lead to a landmark decision in June 2015. The case was pivotal in determining the legality of same-sex marriage across the United States. source: nytimes.com
17 Jan Greek Anti-Terror Police Arrest Terrorist Plot Suspects: Four individuals are arrested in Athens, Greece, for alleged connections to a terrorist plot targeting Belgian police officers on January 15.
18 Jan Mass execution of drug traffickers in Indonesia: On January 18, 2015, Indonesia carried out a mass execution of drug traffickers, drawing international condemnation. The executions were part of the country's strict anti-drug policies and highlighted ongoing debates about capital punishment. source: bbc.com
19 Jan Alberto Nisman death mystery: Alberto Nisman, an Argentine prosecutor, was found dead in his apartment just days before he was set to present evidence against former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner. His death raised suspicions and sparked widespread controversy. source: bbc.com
20 Jan Shooting at Harvard Medical School Hospital: A gunman killed a cardiovascular surgeon at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, before committing suicide, shocking the medical community.
21 Jan Italian Police Seize Thousands of Antique Artifacts: Italian law enforcement dismantles a Swiss-Italian criminal network, seizing 5,361 antique artifacts during raids targeting art dealer Gianfranco Becchina's warehouses.
22 Jan Massive Apartment Complex Fire in Edgewater: A significant fire at The Avalon apartments in Edgewater, reportedly caused by accidental ignition during plumbing work, destroyed 240 residential units and displaced approximately 1,000 residents, as confirmed by Chief William Skidmore of Edgewater Police.
23 Jan Alabama same-sex marriage ban overturned: On January 23, 2015, a federal judge ruled that Alabama'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: nytimes.com
28 Jan Australian High Court Rules on Asylum Seeker Detention: The High Court of Australia ruled that 157 Sri Lankan asylum seekers were technically detained at sea, but determined that the government's actions were legally sound and the group was not entitled to damages.
01 Feb Mohamed Fahmy's deportation from Egypt: On February 1, 2015, Mohamed Fahmy, a Canadian-Egyptian journalist, was deported from Egypt after spending over a year in prison on charges related to his reporting for Al Jazeera English. Fahmy's deportation was part of a broader effort by Egyptian authorities to improve relations with Canada and the international community. source: theglobeandmail.com
02 Feb UN investigator resigns in Gaza conflict probe: On February 2, 2015, a United Nations investigator resigned from a probe into the Gaza conflict, citing a lack of cooperation from Israel and the Palestinian Authority. The resignation highlighted the challenges faced by international bodies in conducting impartial investigations in conflict zones. source: aljazeera.com
03 Feb Nisman Investigation of Argentine President: Alberto Nisman, an investigator, reportedly wrote a request for the arrest of President Cristina Fernandez in connection with his investigation of the 1994 AMIA Bombing that claimed 85 lives.
04 Feb Silk Road founder convicted: On February 4, 2015, Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the Silk Road online marketplace, was convicted on multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit money laundering and computer hacking. The conviction was a significant development in the crackdown on online black markets. source: nytimes.com
05 Feb Gary Glitter convicted of child sexual abuse: Former glam rock singer Gary Glitter, born Paul Gadd, was convicted in London on February 5, 2015, of attempted rape, four counts of indecent assault, and one count of having sex with a girl under the age of 13. The charges related to offenses committed between 1977 and 1980. Glitter was remanded in custody until his sentencing on February 27, 2015, where he was sentenced to 16 years in prison. source: kpbs.org
07 Feb Slovakia Same-Sex Marriage Referendum: A Slovak referendum on same-sex marriage sees over 90% voting in favor, but is declared invalid due to low voter turnout of only 21%, falling short of the required 50% threshold.
09 Feb Irish Police Raid on Political Activists: Garda Siochana raided the Dublin home of Paul Murphy TD and three other activists, sparking nationwide speculation about political motivations. All four were subsequently released without charges.
10 Feb New York City Bribery Scandal Unveiled: On February 10, 2015, a major bribery scandal in New York City was exposed, involving several high-ranking officials accused of accepting bribes in exchange for favorable treatment in city contracts. The scandal led to multiple arrests and a significant public outcry. source: nytimes.com
12 Feb FBI Investigates Chapel Hill Muslim Student Killings: The FBI opens a hate crime investigation into the February 11, 2001 killing of three Muslim students in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, addressing potential racial or religious motivations.
16 Feb Federal court halts Obama's immigration executive order: On February 16, 2015, a federal court issued a ruling that temporarily blocked President Obama's executive order on immigration, which aimed to defer deportation for certain undocumented immigrants. This decision sparked significant political debate. source: reuters.com
17 Feb Chinese Anti-Corruption Investigation: Chinese prosecutors initiated an investigation into Su Rong, a former high-ranking Communist Party official, on corruption charges.
19 Feb Former Thai PM facing indictment: On February 19, 2015, former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra faced indictment over her government's rice subsidy program, which was criticized for causing significant financial losses. This legal action was part of ongoing political turmoil in Thailand. source: bbc.com
20 Feb Australian Rugby Player Arrested: Karmichael Hunt, an Australian rugby player, was arrested for supplying cocaine following a Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission investigation.
21 Feb Riot Renders Willacy County Correctional Center Uninhabitable: A significant riot at the Willacy County Correctional Center in Texas resulted in the facility being declared uninhabitable, raising serious questions about prison management and inmate conditions.
22 Feb Thai Police Arrests: At least three Thai police officers were arrested for participating in unauthorized demonstrations, highlighting tensions within the country's law enforcement and political landscape.
23 Feb Kenya anti-terrorism law challenged: On February 23, 2015, a challenge was filed against Kenya's controversial anti-terrorism law, which critics argue infringes on civil liberties. The law was enacted in response to increasing terrorist attacks in the country. source: aljazeera.com
24 Feb Eddie Ray Routh Convicted of Killing Chris Kyle: Eddie Ray Routh was convicted of murdering Chris Kyle, a renowned U.S. Navy SEAL sniper, and Kyle's friend Chad Littlefield. Routh was automatically sentenced to life imprisonment without parole, concluding a high-profile criminal case.
25 Feb Trial of Eddie Ray Routh for murdering Chris Kyle: Eddie Ray Routh, a former Marine, was found guilty on February 25, 2015, of murdering Chris Kyle, author of "American Sniper," and his friend Chad Littlefield at a shooting range in 2013. Routh was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. source: time.com
26 Feb Washington, D.C. Legalizes Recreational Marijuana: Washington, D.C. joined a small group of U.S. jurisdictions by legalizing recreational marijuana use, aligning with Alaska, Colorado, Washington state, and the state of Washington in progressive drug policy reform.
27 Feb Release of Thai Hostages: After nearly five years in captivity, four Thai hostages were freed by Somali pirates, marking a significant moment in maritime security and international negotiations.
28 Feb Chinese Official Convicted of Corruption: Ni Fake was convicted by the Dongying municipal intermediate people's court on corruption charges and illicit wealth accumulation, receiving a seventeen-year prison sentence.
02 Mar Adam Johnson Detained by Durham Police: Durham Police detained English and Sunderland footballer Adam Johnson on allegations of engaging in sexual activity with a minor aged 15 years.
03 Mar David Petraeus pleads guilty to mishandling classified information: On March 3, 2015, former CIA Director David Petraeus pleaded guilty to charges of mishandling classified information. This case highlighted issues of national security and the responsibilities of public officials regarding sensitive data. source: nytimes.com
04 Mar Boston Marathon bombing trial commences: On March 4, 2015, the trial of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, accused of carrying out the Boston Marathon bombing, began in federal court. The trial attracted significant media attention and public interest due to the nature of the crime. source: nytimes.com
05 Mar Mandarin Oriental Hotel Network Hacked: The luxury Hong Kong hotel chain confirmed a significant cybersecurity breach where credit card information was stolen during a network hack.
06 Mar North Korean Diplomat Caught Smuggling Gold: Son Young Nam, a North Korean diplomat, was caught attempting to smuggle gold worth $1.4 million into Bangladesh at Shahjalal International Airport. He was initially released, but Bangladesh authorities indicated they would continue pursuing legal charges.
08 Mar Sixth Suspect in Nemtsov Murder Dies: Beslan Shavanov, the sixth suspect in Boris Nemtsov's murder investigation, was killed after blowing himself up while cornered in Grozny, Chechnya's capital.
11 Mar Deportation of Carlos Eugenio Vides Casanova: On March 11, 2015, Carlos Eugenio Vides Casanova, a former Salvadoran general, was deported from the United States to El Salvador. He faced allegations of human rights violations during the Salvadoran Civil War. source: nytimes.com
12 Mar Argentine Debt Restructuring Legal Proceedings Continue: U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Griesa extended his existing remedial rulings in the ongoing Argentine debt restructuring litigation, effectively blocking Citigroup's planned bond payments to ensure equal treatment of all bondholders.
16 Mar Robert Durst Murder Charge: Los Angeles prosecutors officially charged Robert Durst with the murder of Susan Berman, a case that gained significant public attention through the HBO documentary 'The Jinx'. Durst was being held in New Orleans at the time of the charges.
17 Mar Catholic archbishop charged with child abuse cover-up: On March 17, 2015, a Catholic archbishop in Australia was charged with covering up child sexual abuse. This marked a significant moment in the ongoing scrutiny of the Church's handling of abuse cases and was part of broader investigations into institutional responses to such allegations. source: theguardian.com
18 Mar U.S. Army authorized to destroy chemical weapons stockpile: On March 18, 2015, the U.S. Army received authorization to begin the destruction of its remaining chemical weapons stockpile. This decision was part of the United States' commitment to international treaties aimed at eliminating chemical weapons. source: reuters.com
20 Mar Train Accident in Uttar Pradesh: A tragic railway accident occurred near Bachhrawan Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh, Northern India, where the Dehradun–Varanasi Janta Express derailed, resulting in at least 30 deaths and over 150 injuries.
21 Mar Military Detainee Abuse Photos to be Released: A federal judge ordered the release of photographs documenting U.S. military detainee abuse, potentially reigniting discussions about controversial interrogation practices.
22 Mar Tragic Bus Accident in Venezuela: A bus in Aragua, southwest of Caracas, crashed into a lake, resulting in at least eleven fatalities and leaving 36 individuals injured, highlighting transportation safety concerns.
23 Mar Wisconsin voter ID law upheld: The Wisconsin Supreme Court upheld the state's voter ID law, which requires voters to present photo identification at the polls. This decision was seen as a significant victory for proponents of voter ID laws amid ongoing debates about voter access. source: nytimes.com
25 Mar Bowe Bergdahl Charged with Desertion: The US Army formally charged Bowe Bergdahl with desertion and misbehavior before the enemy, relating to his capture by the Taliban-aligned Haqqani network from June 2009 to May 2014.
27 Mar Amanda Knox Murder Case Closure: Italy's highest court officially exonerated American Amanda Knox and Italian Raffaele Sollecito of the murder of British student Meredith Kercher, bringing a long-running and internationally watched legal saga to a definitive conclusion.
28 Mar Amanda Knox case developments: On March 28, 2015, developments in the Amanda Knox case emerged as the Italian Supreme Court upheld her conviction for the murder of Meredith Kercher. This decision reignited media attention and public debate over the controversial case, which had seen multiple trials and appeals since 2007. Knox's legal team announced plans to appeal the ruling. source: bbc.com
30 Mar Ehud Olmert convicted of corruption: On March 30, 2015, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was convicted of bribery and obstruction of justice in a retrial of the 'Holyland affair,' a real estate corruption case. The Israeli Supreme Court later reduced his prison sentence, but the conviction stood, making him the first Israeli prime minister to be convicted of a criminal offense.
31 Mar Cyberfraud Charges Against International Criminals: The US State Department charged two Vietnamese nationals and a Canadian citizen with cyberfraud, alleging the theft of 1 billion email addresses for spam purposes, highlighting growing international cybercrime challenges.
01 Apr Senator Bob Menendez indicted on corruption charges: On April 1, 2015, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez was indicted on federal corruption charges, including bribery and fraud. The indictment alleged that Menendez had used his political influence to benefit a Florida ophthalmologist in exchange for gifts and campaign contributions.
02 Apr Hatton Garden Heist: A sophisticated underground robbery occurred in London's Hatton Garden jewelry district, where four men successfully stole items worth approximately £200 million, making it potentially the largest burglary in English legal history. The meticulously planned theft targeted a high-security safe deposit facility. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
03 Apr Google Android Licensing Lawsuit Withdrawn: Plaintiffs voluntarily withdrew a lawsuit against Google that alleged unfair licensing practices and preferential treatment for Google apps within the Android ecosystem.
04 Apr US Army Investigates Sexual Assault Allegations: The United States Army initiated an investigation into alleged sexual assaults committed by soldiers in Colombia during the period between 2003 and 2007, addressing potential misconduct and human rights violations.
06 Apr Bali Nine execution appeal rejected: The Indonesian Supreme Court rejected the final appeal of the Bali Nine, a group of Australian drug traffickers sentenced to death. This decision confirmed their execution sentences, which drew international condemnation and calls for clemency. source: theguardian.com
07 Apr Walter Scott shooting: Police brutality case: The trial for the police officer involved in the shooting of Walter Scott began, highlighting issues of police brutality and racial discrimination in the United States. The case drew national attention and protests. source: bbc.com
08 Apr Boston Marathon bombing trial verdict: The jury delivered a verdict in the trial of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the man accused of carrying out the Boston Marathon bombing. The verdict concluded a high-profile case that had significant implications for national security and public safety. source: bbc.com
09 Apr Dzhokhar Tsarnaev convicted of Boston Marathon bombing: On April 9, 2015, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was convicted on all 30 counts related to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, including charges of using a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death. He was later sentenced to death. source: en.wikipedia.org
10 Apr Malaysia Tightens Online Media Sedition Laws: Malaysia enacted stricter sedition laws to regulate online media, introducing mandatory jail sentences for violations.
11 Apr Egyptian court sentences Muslim Brotherhood leader to death: On April 11, 2015, an Egyptian court sentenced Mohamed Badie, the Supreme Guide of the Muslim Brotherhood, to death on charges related to inciting violence and orchestrating attacks against security forces. source: en.wikipedia.org
13 Apr Blackwater Baghdad shootings sentencing: On April 13, 2015, four former Blackwater security contractors were sentenced for their roles in the 2004 shooting incident in Baghdad, where 17 Iraqi civilians were killed. The sentences ranged from 30 years to life in prison, marking a significant moment in the pursuit of accountability for actions during the Iraq War. source: en.wikipedia.org
14 Apr Japan Halts Nuclear Reactor Restart: Japan's Fukui Prefecture issued a landmark injunction preventing the restart of reactors 3 and 4, reflecting ongoing public concerns about nuclear safety following the Fukushima disaster.
15 Apr Aaron Hernandez Convicted of Murder: Former NFL player Aaron Hernandez was convicted of first-degree murder for killing Odin Lloyd and automatically sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.
16 Apr Mass Shooting in Toronto: A shooting incident in Toronto, Ontario, left five people wounded, with two in critical condition and one in serious condition. Four suspects were subsequently detained by local law enforcement.
21 Apr Pope Accepts Resignation of Bishop Who Failed to Report Child Abuse: Pope Francis accepted the resignation of a bishop who failed to report allegations of child abuse. The decision underscored the Vatican's commitment to addressing sexual abuse within the Church. source: en.wikipedia.org
22 Apr US Senate Passes Human Trafficking Bill: After a prolonged dispute regarding abortion funding, the United States Senate unanimously passed legislation aimed at combating human trafficking, demonstrating bipartisan cooperation.
23 Apr David Petraeus pleads guilty to classified information leak: On April 23, 2015, former CIA Director David Petraeus pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of mishandling classified information. The case involved sharing sensitive documents with his biographer. Petraeus's plea was part of a broader discussion on the handling of classified information by government officials. source: reuters.com
24 Apr Assassination of Human Rights Activist Sabeen Mahmud: Sabeen Mahmud, a prominent Pakistani human rights activist, was shot and killed by unidentified gunmen shortly after attending a seminar on Balochistan's 'disappeared persons' in Karachi, highlighting the dangerous environment for human rights advocates.
27 Apr Diplomatic Plea for Mary Jane Veloso: Philippine President Benigno Aquino III appealed to Indonesian President Joko Widodo to spare the life of Mary Jane Veloso, a domestic worker convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to death.
28 Apr Indonesia executes international drug smugglers: On April 28, 2015, Indonesia executed several drug smugglers, including foreign nationals, as part of its strict anti-drug policy. The executions drew international condemnation and raised debates about Indonesia's death penalty laws and human rights practices. source: bbc.com
30 Apr Baltimore Police conclude Freddie Gray investigation: On April 30, 2015, the Baltimore Police Department concluded its investigation into the death of Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old Black man who died in police custody. The investigation found that six officers had engaged in conduct that led to Gray's death, leading to charges against the officers involved. This case sparked widespread protests and discussions about police practices and racial justice in the United States. source: nytimes.com
01 May Freddie Gray death investigation: On May 1, 2015, the investigation into the death of Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old Black man who died in police custody in Baltimore, concluded. The investigation found that six officers had engaged in conduct that led to Gray's death, leading to charges against the officers involved. This case sparked widespread protests and discussions about police practices and racial justice in the United States. source: nytimes.com
02 May Human Trafficking Discovery in Thailand: Thai police uncovered a human trafficking camp containing 30 graves, revealing the grim extent of human trafficking operations in the region.
03 May Madison Prohibits Atheist Discrimination: Madison, Wisconsin became the first U.S. city to legally prohibit discrimination against atheists, marking a significant step in protecting religious freedom and non-belief.
05 May Indonesia Bans Domestic Workers from Middle East: Indonesia implemented a permanent ban on domestic workers being employed in Middle Eastern countries, citing significant concerns about labor and human rights violations in the employment sector.
06 May Chicago offers reparations for police torture victims: On May 6, 2015, the Chicago City Council approved a reparations package for victims of police torture under former police commander Jon Burge. This historic decision included financial compensation and educational opportunities for the victims and their families, acknowledging past injustices. source: chicagotribune.com
07 May US court rules against NSA mass surveillance: On May 7, 2015, a federal appeals court ruled that the National Security Agency's mass collection of phone records was illegal and violated the USA PATRIOT Act. This landmark decision had significant implications for privacy rights and government surveillance practices in the United States. source: nytimes.com
09 May Hosni Mubarak sentenced to three years for corruption charges: Former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak was sentenced to three years in prison for embezzlement and corruption charges. The court also acquitted him of charges related to the killing of protesters during the 2011 uprising. source: aljazeera.com
11 May Rohingya Asylum Seekers Arrive in Malaysia: Over a thousand Bangladeshi and Rohingya asylum seekers arrived by boat in Malaysia, with the Indonesian Navy confirming the boats were turned away.
13 May USA Freedom Act Passes House: The U.S. House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly (338-88) to pass the USA Freedom Act, which aims to end mass surveillance of Americans' telephone metadata, marking a significant moment in privacy legislation.
14 May Malaysia Refuses Migrant Boats: Malaysia refused to accept two boats carrying over 800 Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants, which had been abandoned at sea by human traffickers. This incident highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis of maritime migration in Southeast Asia.
15 May Boston Marathon bomber sentenced: Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, convicted for his role in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, was sentenced to death on May 15, 2015. The attack killed three people and injured hundreds, marking a significant moment in U.S. legal history. source: bbc.com
16 May Egyptian Football Clubs Banned: An Egyptian court banned football clubs associated with terrorism allegations, a decision stemming from the tragic Port Said Stadium riot of 2012 where over 70 fans were killed and 500 injured, reflecting ongoing security concerns in Egyptian sports.
20 May Nebraska Abolishes Death Penalty: Nebraska's legislature voted to abolish the death penalty, becoming the latest US state to eliminate capital punishment.
22 May Ireland legalizes same-sex marriage via public referendum: On May 22, 2015, Ireland held a public referendum in which 62% of voters approved the legalization of same-sex marriage, making Ireland the first country to legalize it through a popular vote. source: bbc.com
25 May Former Israeli PM Ehud Olmert Sentenced: Ehud Olmert, former Prime Minister of Israel, was sentenced to eight months in prison after being convicted of corruption charges, specifically for accepting cash envelopes from an American supporter.
26 May US court blocks Obama's immigration executive action: On May 26, 2015, a federal appeals court upheld a lower court's decision to block President Obama's executive action on immigration, which aimed to defer deportations for certain undocumented immigrants. This ruling was a significant setback for the Obama administration's immigration policy and sparked widespread debate on immigration reform. source: nytimes.com
27 May Nebraska Abolishes Death Penalty: The Nebraska Legislature voted to abolish the death penalty, overriding Governor Pete Ricketts' veto, marking a significant moment in the state's criminal justice reform.
28 May Dennis Hastert Federal Indictment: Former United States House Speaker Dennis Hastert was indicted on charges of evading bank reporting requirements and lying to federal investigators, marking a significant political corruption case.
01 Jun USA PATRIOT Act provisions expire; USA Freedom Act proposed: On June 1, 2015, key provisions of the USA PATRIOT Act, including Section 215, expired. The Senate was poised to vote on the USA Freedom Act, which aimed to reform surveillance programs and address privacy concerns. source: hrw.org
02 Jun USA Freedom Act passes, ending NSA's bulk phone data collection: On June 2, 2015, the USA Freedom Act was passed, ending the National Security Agency's bulk collection of phone records. The act aimed to balance national security needs with privacy rights. source: nytimes.com
03 Jun Attack on Human Rights NGO in Chechnya: Masked protesters stormed the Grozny Office of the Committee Against Torture, breaking down doors and destroying the office. The incident, potentially linked to local political tensions, raised concerns about human rights and freedom of advocacy in the region.
04 Jun USA Freedom Act Signed: President Barack Obama signs the USA Freedom Act, reinstating expired Patriot Act provisions and reforming Section 215.
10 Jun Brazil's Biographer Protection Law Overturned: Brazil's Supreme Federal Court struck down a law that previously allowed biographers to reject published works about them, potentially opening the way for more comprehensive biographical publications.
11 Jun Cleveland judge recommends charges in Tamir Rice case: On June 11, 2015, Cleveland Municipal Court Judge Ronald Adrine found probable cause to charge Officer Timothy Loehmann with murder and other offenses, and Officer Frank Garmback with negligent homicide and dereliction of duty, in the fatal shooting of 12-year-old Tamir Rice. source: time.com
12 Jun IDF Investigates Operation Protective Edge Incidents: The Israel Defense Forces Advocate announced additional criminal investigations into three incidents from Operation Protective Edge. Out of 190 reported incidents, 105 have been investigated, with 17 cases now under criminal review.
13 Jun Austria halts asylum processing: On June 13, 2015, Austria suspended the processing of asylum applications, citing concerns over the capacity to handle the increasing number of refugees. source: dw.com
14 Jun ICC seeks arrest of Sudan's president: On June 14, 2015, the International Criminal Court (ICC) reiterated its request for the arrest of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir for war crimes and genocide. This marked a significant moment in international law and accountability efforts. source: icc-cpi.int
15 Jun Omar Al-Bashir Controversy in South Africa: The High Court in Pretoria ordered the detention of Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes in Darfur. However, the South African government announced that he had already left the country.
16 Jun Egyptian Court Sentences Mohamed Morsi: An Egyptian court sentenced former President Mohamed Morsi to life imprisonment for conspiring with foreign groups and upheld a preliminary death sentence for a prison escape. Muslim Brotherhood leader Khairat El-Shater and two others were also sentenced to death.
17 Jun Uber employment classification case: On June 17, 2015, a significant legal case regarding the employment classification of Uber drivers was underway. This case raised important questions about gig economy labor rights and regulations. source: nytimes.com
24 Jun Dzhokhar Tsarnaev Death Sentence: On June 24, 2015, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was sentenced to death for his role in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. The jury found him guilty on multiple counts, including the use of a weapon of mass destruction, leading to the tragic deaths and injuries of many. source: nytimes.com
25 Jun Egypt Detains Al-Jazeera Journalists: The Committee to Protect Journalists reported that the Egyptian government detained 18 journalists from Al-Jazeera.
26 Jun US Supreme Court Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that same-sex marriage is a constitutional right. This landmark decision marked a significant victory for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States. source: supremecourt.gov
28 Jun FBI investigates church arsons in South Carolina: In June 2015, the FBI launched an investigation into a series of church arson incidents in South Carolina, following the Charleston church shooting. The arson attacks targeted predominantly Black churches, raising concerns about racial tensions and hate crimes in the region. source: cnn.com
29 Jun US Personnel Management System Hacked: Following a massive data breach involving millions of stolen records, the United States Office of Personnel Management shut down its background check system, raising significant cybersecurity concerns.
03 Jul Tragic Murder of AFL Coach Phil Walsh: Phil Walsh, head coach of the Adelaide Football Club in the Australian Football League, was tragically killed in his home. His son is currently being tried for the murder.
06 Jul UN Investigation into Dag Hammarskjold's Death: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon called for a fresh investigation into the plane accident that killed former UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjold, based on new evidence discovered by a panel he appointed.
08 Jul 1MDB Corruption Scandal Investigation: Malaysian police conducted raids on government offices of 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) to investigate a significant corruption scandal, marking a critical moment in the country's fight against governmental corruption.
09 Jul FIFA Corruption Case: Chuck Blazer Banned: FIFA suspended former Executive Committee member Chuck Blazer for life due to serious ethical violations, including accepting bribes, as part of the ongoing international football corruption investigation.
12 Jul American Psychological Association torture complicity: On July 12, 2015, the American Psychological Association (APA) faced scrutiny over its alleged complicity in the U.S. government's torture program. An independent report revealed that the APA had collaborated with the government to support interrogation practices. source: nytimes.com
13 Jul Obama commutes drug sentences: On July 13, 2015, President Barack Obama announced the commutation of sentences for 46 individuals convicted of non-violent drug offenses. This move was part of a broader effort to reform the criminal justice system. source: bbc.com
15 Jul Auschwitz bookkeeper sentenced to prison: On July 15, 2015, Oskar Groening, known as the 'Auschwitz bookkeeper,' was sentenced to four years in prison for his role in the Holocaust. The case highlighted the ongoing pursuit of justice for Holocaust survivors and victims. source: bbc.com
17 Jul Pakistan Rangers Raid MQM Headquarters: Pakistan Rangers conducted a raid on the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) party headquarters in Karachi, arresting two individuals on allegations of producing hate speech.
18 Jul Building Collapse in West Delhi: A four-story building collapsed in West Delhi, India, causing significant casualties: at least four people died, seven were injured, and one girl was trapped in the rubble.
26 Jul British Lord Resigns After Scandal: John Sewel, Baron Sewel, resigned from his position as Chairman of Committees in the House of Lords following a drug-related scandal.
27 Jul Fiat Chrysler Receives Record Fine from US Regulators: Fiat Chrysler was hit with a record $105 million fine by US regulators due to an extensive number of vehicle recalls, signaling increased regulatory scrutiny in the automotive industry.
28 Jul Joyce Mitchell Pleads Guilty in Prison Escape Case: Joyce Mitchell pleaded guilty to promoting prison contraband and criminal facilitation related to the Clinton Correctional Facility escape, involving inmates Richard Matt and David Sweat. She faces up to seven years in prison.
30 Jul Yakub Memon Executed for 1993 Bombay Bombings: India executed Yakub Memon for his significant role in the 1993 Bombay bombings, a pivotal moment in the country's counterterrorism efforts.
02 Aug Al-Jazeera Journalists' Trial Postponed: An Egyptian court postponed the verdict in a prominent trial involving two Al-Jazeera journalists charged with aiding the Muslim Brotherhood. The case highlighted ongoing tensions surrounding media freedom and political dissent in Egypt.
03 Aug Aurora Shooting Penalty Eligibility: In a significant legal development, the jury unanimously confirmed that James Eagan Holmes remains eligible for the death penalty following his conviction in the 2012 Aurora shooting.
04 Aug Milwaukee Archdiocese Sex Abuse Settlement: The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Milwaukee, led by Archbishop Jerome Listecki, reached a collective settlement of $21 million for sex abuse claims, potentially enabling the archdiocese to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
05 Aug Federal appeals court strikes down Texas voter ID law: On August 5, 2015, a federal appeals court ruled that Texas's voter ID law was discriminatory and imposed undue burdens on minority voters. This decision was a significant development in the ongoing debate over voting rights and election laws in the United States. The ruling prompted discussions about the implications for future elections in Texas. source: nytimes.com
07 Aug James Holmes Trial Sentencing: In the penalty phase of James Holmes' trial, the jury reached a verdict sentencing him to life imprisonment without parole.
09 Aug Ferguson Shooting Incident: Tyrone Harris, Jr. is shot by police in Ferguson, Missouri, after allegedly firing shots at law enforcement officers, leaving him in critical condition.
17 Aug Officer Charged with Murder in John Geer Shooting: A former police officer was charged with second-degree murder in connection with the shooting death of John Geer in Fairfax, Virginia, which occurred in August 2013. This case highlights ongoing issues of police accountability and use of force.
20 Aug Operation Car Wash corruption charges: On August 20, 2015, Brazilian authorities announced new corruption charges related to Operation Car Wash, a massive investigation into corruption at the state oil company Petrobras. The investigation revealed extensive bribery and money laundering schemes involving top politicians and business leaders. source: bbc.com
21 Aug UK Information Commissioner Orders Google to Remove Links: The UK's Information Commissioner's Office mandated Google to remove search engine links to a decade-old news story about a shoplifting conviction, citing the information as irrelevant. This decision highlights ongoing debates about digital privacy and the 'right to be forgotten'.
23 Aug Mass graves of human trafficking victims discovered in Malaysia: On August 23, 2015, Malaysian authorities uncovered 24 human skeletons in mass graves along the Thai-Malaysian border in Perlis state. The remains were believed to be victims of human trafficking, with the bodies exhumed from 19 graves in the Bukit Wang Burma area. This discovery followed earlier findings of similar graves in the region. source: aljazeera.com
24 Aug Guatemala Corruption Case: Vice President Faces Charges: Roxana Baldetti, former Vice President of Guatemala, appeared before a courthouse to face significant corruption charges. Simultaneously, Dorval Carias, the finance minister, resigned from his position, indicating the depth of the governmental corruption scandal.
26 Aug James Holmes sentenced for Aurora cinema shooting: On August 26, 2015, James Holmes was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the 2012 Aurora cinema shooting in Colorado, USA, where 12 people were killed and 70 others injured. The sentencing followed a lengthy trial and deliberation. source: cnn.com
28 Aug New Mexico Secretary of State Faces Criminal Charges: Dianna Duran, New Mexico's Secretary of State, is charged with 64 criminal counts, including fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering, in a significant political corruption case.
29 Aug Deadly Bus Crash in South Africa: A tragic bus accident occurred between Butterworth and Willovale in South Africa, resulting in the deaths of 35 people when the vehicle crashed into a rock, underscoring the risks of road transportation in the region.
31 Aug Czech Suspect Extradited from US: Czech authorities successfully extradited Kevin Dahlgren from the United States, where he was suspected of murdering four members of a Czech family.
02 Sep Guatemalan President Detained: A judge ordered the detention of Guatemalan President Otto Perez Molina due to suspected involvement in a significant corruption scandal.
03 Sep Guatemalan President Resigns Amid Corruption Scandal: Otto Perez Molina was forced to resign as Guatemala's President following serious corruption allegations. Vice President Alejandro Maldonado assumed the role of interim head of state, marking a significant political transition.
04 Sep VICE News Journalists Arrested in Turkey: British VICE News journalists Jake Hanrahan and Philip Pendlebury were arrested in Diyarbakir Province, southeastern Turkey, on terror charges. Their colleague, Mohammed Ismael Rasool, remained in custody.
05 Sep Bangkok Bombing Investigation: Thai police expanded their investigation into the deadly Bangkok bombing, now seeking a 10th suspect in connection with the terrorist attack.
06 Sep Las Vegas police officer critically injured in shooting: On September 6, 2015, a Las Vegas police officer was critically injured in a shooting incident. The officer was responding to a call when the suspect opened fire, leading to a standoff and subsequent arrest. The incident raised concerns about police safety and gun violence. source: reviewjournal.com
07 Sep Obama Mandates Paid Sick Leave for Federal Contractors: President Obama issues an executive order requiring federal contractors to provide workers with seven days of paid sick time annually, announced during Labor Day festivities in Boston.
08 Sep United Airlines CEO Resigns: Jeff Smisek, CEO of United Airlines, resigned amid accusations of improperly attempting to influence officials from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
09 Sep Human Rights Violation in the Philippines: Human Rights Watch and the Philippine Commission on Human Rights condemned the murder of an indigenous Lumad family and the rape of an indigenous Manobo child by Philippine Army soldiers and militiamen.
14 Sep Kim Davis Same-Sex Marriage Controversy: Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis was involved in a high-profile legal dispute over same-sex marriage, stating she would not personally authorize marriage licenses but would not block her deputies from doing so.
15 Sep Tragic School Bus Accident in Houston: A devastating school bus accident occurred when the bus collided with another vehicle and crashed into a Houston overpass on Interstate 610, resulting in three student fatalities and three injuries.
16 Sep Major Synthetic Drug Raid in New York: New York City Police and federal agents conducted one of the largest raids targeting an international criminal syndicate selling synthetic marijuana. Two warehouses were seized in the Bronx, following a surge of 2,300 emergency room admissions in two months.
17 Sep General Motors Settles Ignition System Lawsuit: General Motors agreed to pay a substantial $900 million criminal settlement related to ignition system defects in its small car models, addressing significant safety and legal concerns.
18 Sep FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke Resigns: Jerome Valcke, FIFA Secretary General, resigned amid an ongoing investigation into his alleged involvement in a ticketing scam, further highlighting the organization's ongoing corruption challenges.
21 Sep Google 'Right to be Forgotten' Legal Battle: The French data protection regulator rejected Google's appeal against removing 'Right to be Forgotten' search results, potentially facing sanctions up to 5% of global operating costs.
23 Sep Egypt pardons journalists amid crackdown: On September 23, 2015, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi pardoned several journalists who had been imprisoned for their reporting. This move was seen as an attempt to ease international criticism of Egypt's human rights record. source: aljazeera.com
26 Sep War crimes trial for cultural site destruction: On September 26, 2015, the International Criminal Court began a trial concerning the destruction of cultural heritage sites in Mali. This case marked a significant step in holding individuals accountable for war crimes related to cultural property. source: icc-cpi.int
27 Sep Chris Brown Banned from Australia: Due to Chris Brown's 2009 domestic violence conviction against Rihanna, the Australian government officially refused him entry into the country.
28 Sep Nepal Restricts Mount Everest Climbing: The Nepalese government implemented new regulations prohibiting inexperienced mountaineers and individuals with disabilities from attempting to climb Mount Everest, aimed at improving climbing safety.
29 Sep Amnesty International Declares Cuban Artist Prisoner of Conscience: Amnesty International designated Danilo Maldonado Makado, a Cuban graffiti artist, as a prisoner of conscience.
30 Sep Mumbai Train Bombing Sentencing: On September 30, 2015, the Bombay High Court sentenced 12 individuals to death and 20 others to life imprisonment for their involvement in the 2006 Mumbai train bombings, which killed over 180 people. The court found the accused guilty of conspiracy, murder, and other charges. source: bbc.com
02 Oct FIFA Corruption Scandal Escalates: Major FIFA corporate sponsors including Coca-Cola, McDonald's, Visa, and Anheuser-Busch InBev demanded the immediate resignation of FIFA President Sepp Blatter following a Swiss criminal investigation. Blatter refused to step down.
03 Oct Fatal Bus Crash in Coventry: A tragic bus crash into a Sainsbury's store in Coventry resulted in two fatalities and injured multiple people, including an eight-year-old boy. West Midlands Police investigated the incident.
06 Oct FIFA Corruption Case: South Korean FIFA presidential candidate Chung Mongjoon admitted facing charges before FIFA's ethics commission while denying any wrongdoing.
07 Oct MSF Calls for Investigation into Kunduz Hospital Bombing: Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) requested activation of the International Humanitarian Fact-Finding Commission to investigate the U.S. bombing of their Kunduz hospital, which resulted in at least 22 fatalities and was potentially considered a war crime.
16 Oct Nevada Regulates Fantasy Sports: Nevada Gaming Control Board rules that daily fantasy sports constitute gambling, ordering sites like DraftKings and FanDuel to obtain gambling licenses or cease operations, signaling increased regulatory scrutiny of the industry.
19 Oct US Drone Registration Mandate: U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx announced that all unmanned aircraft (drones) will require government registration. A task force comprising government officials and stakeholders was formed to determine registration details and procedures.
25 Oct Adacia Chambers Accident Defense: Attorney Tony Coleman claims Adacia Chambers was not intoxicated during the car crash, suggesting she is suffering from mental illness.
29 Oct Raif Badawi's controversial sentence upheld in Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabian blogger Raif Badawi's sentence of 1,000 lashes and ten years in prison was upheld by the country's Supreme Court. Badawi was convicted of insulting Islam and spreading liberal ideas online, leading to international condemnation. source: bbc.com
02 Nov Vatican Financial Leak Investigation: Vatican police arrested Msgr. Francesca Immacolata Chaouqui and Lucio Angel Vallejo Alvajo Balda, members of a former Vatican commission, on charges of leaking confidential financial documents to media—a persistent issue since 2013.
03 Nov Takata Airbag Recall Settlement: The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reached a consent decree with Takata Corp. regarding faulty airbags. The agreement includes potential civil penalties up to $200 million and mandates accelerated recalls across twelve automakers, addressing a significant automotive safety issue.
04 Nov Mexican Supreme Court Marijuana Ruling: In a landmark 4-1 decision, the Mexican Supreme Court ruled that individuals have the right to cultivate and distribute marijuana for personal use, challenging existing substance abuse laws.
06 Nov India Revokes Greenpeace Operating License: The Indian government revoked Greenpeace India's operating license, providing the environmental organization with 30 days to cease operations. The government cited financial fraud and data falsification as primary reasons for the license cancellation.
09 Nov Obama's immigration plan blocked: On November 9, 2015, a federal appeals court upheld a lower court's decision to block President Obama's immigration plan, which aimed to protect millions of undocumented immigrants from deportation. This ruling was a significant setback for the administration's immigration policy. source: nytimes.com
10 Nov New York AG Challenges Daily Fantasy Sports: New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued cease-and-desist letters to DraftKings and FanDuel, alleging violations of state gambling laws and seeking to halt their operations in New York.
11 Nov Chinese Anti-Corruption Investigation: Beijing's Central Commission for Discipline Inspection launched investigations into high-ranking officials Ai Baojun, Shanghai's vice mayor, and Lu Xiwen, Beijing's Deputy Communist Party Secretary, as part of an ongoing anti-corruption campaign.
12 Nov Venezuelan Officials' Nephews Arrested: Two nephews of Venezuelan First Lady Cilia Flores were detained in Haiti by U.S. authorities on charges of conspiring to smuggle drugs into the United States.
14 Nov Utah Judge Reverses Foster Care Decision: Utah Juvenile Court Judge Scott N. Johansen reversed an earlier order removing children from same-sex foster parents, eliminating discriminatory language and allowing the placement to continue.
22 Nov Belgian Anti-Terrorism Raids: Belgian authorities conducted anti-terrorism raids, resulting in 16 additional arrests. Despite the raids, no explosives or weapons were discovered. A judge was set to decide on the continued detention of the arrested individuals.
24 Nov Vietnam's LGBT Rights Milestone: Vietnam's National Assembly unanimously passed a groundbreaking law recognizing and permitting gender reassignment surgeries, set to be implemented in 2017 as part of the revised civil code, marking a significant step for LGBT rights in the country.
28 Nov Tahir Elçi assassinated in Turkey: On November 28, 2015, Tahir Elçi, a prominent Kurdish human rights lawyer and president of the Diyarbakır Bar Association, was assassinated in Diyarbakır, Turkey. Elçi was shot in the head during a press conference advocating for peace and the end of violence between the PKK and Turkish authorities. His death led to widespread condemnation and protests across Turkey. source: hrw.org
01 Dec Chicago Police Chief resigns amid Laquan McDonald shooting controversy: Chicago Police Chief Garry McCarthy resigned following public outcry over the police shooting of Laquan McDonald. The incident, which involved the release of a controversial video, sparked protests and calls for accountability within the police department. source: nbcnews.com
03 Dec US Military Opens All Combat Roles to Women: Through Defense Secretary Ash Carter, the Obama Administration announced that all combat roles in U.S. military forces would be open to women, marking a significant milestone in gender equality in military service.
08 Dec Oscar Pistorius released on bail during murder appeal: On December 8, 2015, South African Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius was granted bail during his appeal against a murder conviction. Pistorius had been sentenced to six years in prison for the 2013 shooting death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. The appeal sought to have the conviction upgraded to murder, which could result in a longer sentence. The case attracted significant international media attention. source: bbc.com
14 Dec Seattle Pioneers Gig Worker Union Rights: The Seattle City Council unanimously approved a groundbreaking measure allowing ride-sharing drivers from Uber, Lyft, and other contract platforms to join trade unions. This decision makes Seattle the first U.S. city to grant such rights, potentially setting a precedent for gig economy worker protections.
15 Dec Electronic Threat Closes Los Angeles Schools: Los Angeles Unified School District schools were temporarily closed due to an unspecified electronic threat, which authorities later determined to be a hoax. Similar threats were also received in New York City, potentially originating from the same source via a Frankfurt server.
16 Dec Mistrial Declared in Freddie Gray Police Officer Case: A Baltimore judge declared a mistrial in the case of William Porter, the first police officer charged in Freddie Gray's death, after the jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict.
17 Dec Martin Shkreli arrested for securities fraud: On December 17, 2015, Martin Shkreli, former CEO of Turing Pharmaceuticals, was arrested on charges of securities fraud and conspiracy. The charges related to his alleged manipulation of stock prices and defrauding investors. source: nytimes.com
19 Dec Swiss Legal Action Against Jihadist Propaganda: The Swiss Attorney General announced criminal proceedings against a member of the Islamic Central Council of Switzerland for spreading jihadist propaganda. The individual, identified as Naim Cherni, released a videotape from Syria featuring interviews with Islamist leaders.
20 Dec Las Vegas Strip Pedestrian Incident: A tragic incident occurred on the Las Vegas Strip between Planet Hollywood and Paris Las Vegas, where a motorist ran over pedestrians, resulting in one fatality and 26 injuries.
21 Dec Israeli Vice Prime Minister Resigns Over Harassment Allegations: Silvan Shalom, Israeli Vice Prime Minister from the Likud party, resigned from his governmental positions following multiple sexual harassment allegations. Israel's Attorney General initiated an investigation, leading to Shalom's resignation from his ministerial role and Knesset seat.
22 Dec Colombia Legalizes Medical Marijuana: Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos signed a decree legalizing medical marijuana, establishing a framework for growers to obtain licenses from the National Narcotics Council. This move represents a significant shift in drug policy.
24 Dec U.S. hostages from 1979 Iran embassy takeover granted compensation: The U.S. government announced that surviving hostages from the 1979 Iran embassy takeover would receive up to $4.4 million each, as part of a $1.1 trillion spending bill signed by President Obama. source: upi.com
28 Dec Shenzhen Landslide: Official Culpability: A Chinese official was found to have authorized construction debris dumping that caused a deadly landslide in Shenzhen, resulting in at least 7 deaths and over 70 people missing. Following the investigation, the official jumped to his death from a Nanshan district building.
29 Dec Chicago Police Officer Pleads Not Guilty in Shooting: On December 29, 2015, a Chicago police officer pleaded not guilty to charges related to the shooting of Laquan McDonald, a Black teenager, in 2014. The officer faced charges of first-degree murder and official misconduct. source: nytimes.com
30 Dec Bill Cosby Sexual Assault Charges: On December 30, 2015, comedian Bill Cosby was charged with aggravated indecent assault in Pennsylvania, related to an alleged incident from 2004. This marked the first criminal charges against Cosby after numerous allegations of sexual misconduct. source: nytimes.com

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