2017 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights

2017 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

02 Jan US House Republicans attempt to weaken ethics office: On January 2, 2017, House Republicans in the United States voted to weaken the Office of Congressional Ethics, a move that sparked controversy and concerns about transparency and accountability in government. The decision was later reversed following public outcry. source: abc.net.au
03 Jan Donald Tsang Pleads Not Guilty to Misconduct Charges: Donald Tsang, former chief executive of Hong Kong, pleaded not guilty to three counts of misconduct and bribery related to a Shenzhen penthouse lease, facing significant legal scrutiny.
10 Jan Dylann Roof Sentenced to Death: On January 10, 2017, a federal jury in Charleston, South Carolina, sentenced Dylann Roof to death for the 2015 massacre at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, where he killed nine African-American parishioners. Roof was convicted on 33 federal charges, including hate crimes resulting in death. This marked the first federal death sentence for a hate crime. source: justice.gov
11 Jan Decline in El Salvador's Homicide Rate: El Salvador experienced a significant drop in its homicide rate, marking its first day without a homicide in two years, suggesting potential improvements in public safety and law enforcement strategies.
12 Jan Robert Xie Convicted of Lin Family Murders: Seven years after the Lin family's bodies were discovered in Sydney, Robert Xie was found guilty of their murders, bringing closure to a long-standing criminal investigation.
14 Jan German police arrest neo-Nazi suspects: On January 14, 2017, German police arrested several individuals suspected of being members of a neo-Nazi group planning violent attacks. The arrests were part of a broader crackdown on far-right extremism in Germany. source: reuters.com
15 Jan Bahrain Executes Three Individuals: Bahrain conducted its first executions since 2010, executing three individuals for their alleged involvement in a bombing that killed three police officers in 2014. The event raised international human rights concerns.
16 Jan Ukraine Sues Russia at International Court of Justice: On January 16, 2017, Ukraine filed a lawsuit against Russia at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Russia of violating international law by supporting separatists in eastern Ukraine and annexing Crimea. Ukraine sought to hold Russia accountable for alleged breaches of the International Convention for the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. source: icj-cij.org
17 Jan Obama Commutes Chelsea Manning's Sentence: On January 17, 2017, U.S. President Barack Obama commuted the sentence of Chelsea Manning, a former U.S. Army intelligence analyst convicted of leaking classified documents. Manning's 35-year prison sentence was reduced to seven years, with release scheduled for May 2017, after serving approximately seven years in confinement. source: nytimes.com
19 Jan El Chapo extradited to the United States: Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán, leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, was extradited from Mexico to the United States on January 19, 2017, to face charges related to drug trafficking and organized crime. source: justice.gov
20 Jan Melbourne Bourke Street Mall Attack: A deliberate car attack in Melbourne's central business district resulted in three initial fatalities and 20 injuries. Victoria Police arrested the perpetrator and stated the incident was not terrorism-related, with the potential death toll expected to rise.
21 Jan Brazilian Prison Violence Escalates: After a week of intense fighting that resulted in 26 prisoner deaths, Brazilian police entered the Alcacuz prison in Rio Grande do Norte. By this point in the year, at least 126 people had been killed in Brazil's prison system.
23 Jan Europol and Interpol Recover Thousands of Artifacts: A joint Europol and Interpol operation, called 'Operation Pandora', resulted in the recovery of over 3,500 artifacts and artworks. The operation led to 75 arrests, with an additional 48,588 individuals under investigation.
25 Jan Russia Decriminalizes Domestic Violence: The Russian Duma passed a controversial law that decriminalizes first-time domestic violence incidents, reducing such offenses to administrative infractions. The legislation also covers violence against children, sparking significant human rights concerns.
26 Jan Greece Blocks Extradition of Turkish Soldiers: The Supreme Court of Greece refused to extradite eight Turkish soldiers accused of involvement in the 2016 Turkish coup d'etat attempt.
28 Jan Federal judge stays travel ban: A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order against President Trump's executive order banning travelers from seven predominantly Muslim countries. The ruling temporarily halted the enforcement of the ban, leading to confusion and legal debates at airports nationwide. source: nytimes.com
30 Jan Brazilian Corruption Investigation: Brazilian police arrested EBX Group CEO Eike Batista as part of the ongoing Operation Car Wash, alleging bribery of officials in Rio de Janeiro, including former Governor Sergio Cabral Filho.
31 Jan Alan Turing Law: UK Pardons Gay and Bisexual Men: On January 31, 2017, the United Kingdom implemented the "Alan Turing Law," which posthumously pardoned thousands of gay and bisexual men who had been convicted under historical laws that criminalized homosexual acts. The law was named after Alan Turing, the renowned mathematician and codebreaker who was chemically castrated after being convicted in 1952. source: aljazeera.com
01 Feb Israeli Forces Evict Illegal West Bank Outpost: Israeli security forces began evacuating residents from the illegal Amona Mateh Binyamin outpost near Ramallah, following a Supreme Court order. The settlement was built on Palestinian-owned land, highlighting ongoing territorial disputes.
02 Feb HBOS Banking Corruption Conviction: Lynden Scourfield, a former HBOS manager, and associated bankers are found guilty of a massive corruption scheme involving the extortion of £245 million from small businesses. Scourfield was sentenced to 11 years in prison for using the stolen funds for personal luxuries.
03 Feb U.S. travel ban temporarily blocked: On February 3, 2017, a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order against President Trump's travel ban, halting its enforcement nationwide. source: nytimes.com
04 Feb Federal judge blocks Trump immigration order: On February 4, 2017, U.S. District Judge James Robart issued a nationwide temporary restraining order against President Trump's executive order banning entry from seven predominantly Muslim countries. This ruling allowed visa holders from the affected nations to enter the U.S. temporarily. President Trump criticized the decision, calling it 'ridiculous' and suggesting it endangered national security. source: time.com
05 Feb Trump travel ban legal challenge: Following Judge Robart's ruling on February 4, 2017, the U.S. Department of Justice filed an emergency motion to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, seeking to reinstate the travel ban. The court scheduled oral arguments for February 7, 2017, to consider the government's request. source: en.wikipedia.org
06 Feb Tech Companies Challenge Trump Immigration Order: Major technology companies filed a legal opposition brief against President Trump's immigration order, which had temporarily banned travel from seven predominantly Muslim countries, highlighting the tech industry's stance on immigration policy.
07 Feb Ninth Circuit Court hearing on travel ban: On February 7, 2017, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals held oral arguments regarding the government's appeal to reinstate President Trump's travel ban. The court considered whether to lift the temporary restraining order issued by Judge Robart, which had blocked the ban's enforcement. source: en.wikipedia.org
08 Feb Putin decriminalizes minor domestic violence: On February 8, 2017, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law decriminalizing certain forms of domestic violence. This controversial legislation has been criticized for potentially increasing the risk of abuse against women. source: theguardian.com
09 Feb Court blocks Trump's immigration order: On February 9, 2017, a federal court issued a ruling that blocked President Trump's immigration order, which aimed to restrict travel from several predominantly Muslim countries. This decision was a significant setback for the administration's policy agenda. source: nytimes.com
11 Feb 2017 Istanbul Nightclub Shooting Prosecution: Abdulkadir Masharipov was formally charged with murder in connection to the Istanbul nightclub shooting that claimed 39 lives, with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant claiming responsibility for the attack.
15 Feb Venezuela bans CNN en Español: On February 15, 2017, Venezuela's National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL) ordered the suspension of CNN en Español's broadcast in the country, citing alleged inaccuracies in its reporting. The move was widely criticized as an attack on press freedom. source: bbc.com
16 Feb Venezuela: Leopoldo López sentence confirmed: On February 16, 2017, Venezuela's Supreme Court confirmed the 13-year prison sentence of opposition leader Leopoldo López, who had been convicted on charges related to anti-government protests in 2014. The decision was condemned by international human rights organizations as politically motivated. source: bbc.com
19 Feb South Sudanese Military Court Officials Resign: Two high-ranking officials overseeing South Sudan's military courts resigned, accusing the government of interfering with disciplinary actions against soldiers accused of rape and murder. Their resignation followed previous protests against alleged atrocities targeting non-Dinka civilians.
20 Feb Antisemitism Threats in United States: Ongoing bomb threats against Jewish institutions across the United States led to the evacuation of the Ronald Gardenswartz Jewish Community Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
22 Feb Trump Administration Revokes Transgender Protections: The Trump administration rescinds Obama-era Title IX guidelines protecting transgender students' rights, sparking nationwide debate about gender identity and educational protections.
23 Feb Leila de Lima arrested in Philippines: On February 23, 2017, Leila de Lima, a prominent Philippine senator and former justice secretary, was arrested on charges related to drug trafficking. Her arrest was widely viewed as politically motivated, drawing international concern over the state of human rights and democracy in the Philippines. source: un.org
24 Feb Human Rights Watch Researcher Denied Entry to Israel: Omar Shakir, a U.S. researcher for Human Rights Watch, was initially denied entry to Israel, with the government claiming the organization promotes Palestinian propaganda. After an appeal, he was granted a tourist visa.
25 Feb Vehicle Attack in Heidelberg: German police arrested a driver who crashed into a group of pedestrians in Heidelberg's central square, killing a 73-year-old man and injuring two others. Authorities did not initially suspect terrorist motivations.
28 Feb Thai Police General Dismissed: The Royal Thai Government terminated Police General Jumpol Manmai's position due to 'extremely bad' conduct and political interests deemed threatening to national security.
01 Mar Philippine President Duterte resumes anti-drug operations: On March 1, 2017, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the resumption of police anti-drug operations, lifting a suspension imposed in January due to the kidnapping and killing of a South Korean businessman by rogue officers. source: hrw.org
04 Mar Mexico establishes legal aid centers in U.S. consulates: On March 4, 2017, Mexico announced the establishment of legal aid centers in its consulates across the United States. This initiative aimed to provide support to Mexican nationals facing legal challenges, particularly in light of increasing immigration enforcement. source: reuters.com
05 Mar Israel Decriminalizes Marijuana Use: Israel has modified its cannabis legislation, introducing a more lenient approach to first-time marijuana users. Instead of facing criminal prosecution, individuals caught using marijuana in public spaces will now be issued fines, marking a significant shift in the country's drug policy.
12 Mar Preet Bharara Fired by Trump Administration: On March 12, 2017, Preet Bharara, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, was dismissed by the Trump administration. Bharara had been investigating several high-profile cases, and his firing raised questions about the independence of federal prosecutors. The move was part of a broader shakeup of U.S. attorneys across the country. source: nytimes.com
13 Mar States challenge US immigration ban: On March 13, 2017, several U.S. states filed lawsuits against the Trump administration's immigration ban, arguing it was unconstitutional and discriminatory. This legal challenge sparked nationwide debates on immigration policy. source: nytimes.com
14 Mar Major European Anti-Trafficking Operation: Europol reported a significant anti-trafficking operation conducted by the Spanish government, resulting in the seizure of more than 10,000 assault rifles and 400 shelling guns.
16 Mar Trump's travel ban blocked by federal courts: Federal courts issued rulings blocking President Trump's travel ban, which aimed to restrict entry from several predominantly Muslim countries. The decisions were based on arguments that the ban was unconstitutional and discriminatory. This marked a significant legal challenge to the administration's immigration policies. source: nytimes.com
20 Mar Neil Gorsuch Supreme Court Nomination Hearings: On March 20, 2017, the Senate Judiciary Committee began hearings on the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court. The hearings included opening statements and the nominee's testimony, with further questioning and testimonies from external witnesses scheduled in the following days. source: washingtonpost.com
22 Mar Jean-Pierre Bemba ICC sentencing: On March 22, 2017, the International Criminal Court sentenced former Congolese Vice President Jean-Pierre Bemba to 18 years in prison for war crimes and crimes against humanity. This marked a significant ruling in international law. source: bbc.com
23 Mar MV Sewol Wreckage Raised: The South Korean government raised the wreckage of the MV Sewol ferry near Donggeochado. The vessel had capsized in April 2014, resulting in the tragic loss of 304 lives, marking a significant moment in the ongoing investigation and memorial process.
24 Mar ICC Orders Reparations for Congolese Victims: On March 24, 2017, the International Criminal Court (ICC) ordered reparations for victims of war crimes committed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This landmark decision marked a significant step in international law regarding accountability and justice for victims of conflict. source: icc-cpi.int
25 Mar Vehicle Incident in London: A vehicle mounts the pavement in Islington, London, involving teens with offensive weapons. Authorities confirm the incident is not believed to be terrorism-related.
26 Mar Cincinnati Shooting Incident: A shooting incident in Cincinnati, Ohio, resulted in one fatality and fourteen injuries.
27 Mar Massive gold coin theft in Berlin: On March 27, 2017, a massive gold coin weighing over 100 kilograms was stolen from the Bode Museum in Berlin. The coin, known as the "Big Maple Leaf," was valued at approximately $4.5 million. The theft raised concerns about security measures at the museum and the safety of valuable artifacts. source: bbc.com
28 Mar Simone Gbagbo Acquitted of Crimes Against Humanity: Simone Gbagbo, former First Lady of Ivory Coast, was cleared of all charges of crimes against humanity. However, she remains in prison for a previous conviction of undermining state security.
29 Mar US immigration ban challenged: On March 29, 2017, a federal judge in Hawaii issued a temporary restraining order against the Trump administration's revised travel ban, which sought to restrict entry into the U.S. from several predominantly Muslim countries. The judge ruled that the ban likely violated the First Amendment and the Immigration and Nationality Act, leading to a halt in its enforcement. source: nytimes.com
30 Mar Michael Flynn Seeks Immunity in Russia Probe: Michael T. Flynn indicates he will testify with immunity during the congressional investigation into Russia's potential interference in the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election.
31 Mar New York City's prison reform initiative: On March 31, 2017, New York City announced a new initiative aimed at reforming its prison system, focusing on reducing incarceration rates and improving conditions for inmates. This initiative was part of broader criminal justice reform efforts. source: nytimes.com
03 Apr Neil Gorsuch nominated to Supreme Court: On April 3, 2017, President Donald Trump nominated Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court of the United States. Gorsuch's nomination was significant as it filled the vacancy left by Justice Antonin Scalia's death. His confirmation process was closely watched and contentious. source: nytimes.com
04 Apr LGBT workers protected under Civil Rights Act: On April 4, 2017, a significant ruling affirmed that LGBT workers are protected under the Civil Rights Act. This decision marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ rights in the workplace, reinforcing anti-discrimination laws. source: nytimes.com
05 Apr Mexican drug lord sentenced to life in prison: On April 5, 2017, a prominent Mexican drug lord was sentenced to life in prison for his role in drug trafficking and organized crime. The sentencing was part of a broader effort to combat drug-related violence in Mexico. source: bbc.com
06 Apr Saint Petersburg Metro Bombing Investigation: Russian authorities conducted ongoing raids and successfully found and deactivated an explosive device inside a Saint Petersburg apartment, following the recent metro bombing.
08 Apr Prison Violence in South Carolina: Four inmates were killed at Kirkland Correctional Institution in South Carolina, with two inmates subsequently charged with the murders.
09 Apr United Airlines passenger removal controversy: On April 9, 2017, United Airlines forcibly removed Dr. David Dao from Flight 3411 at Chicago O'Hare International Airport to make room for crew members. The incident, captured on video, led to public outrage and significant media coverage. source: time.com
11 Apr United Airlines Passenger Removal Controversy: United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz issued a public apology after a passenger was forcibly removed from an overbooked flight, causing significant public backlash. The incident went viral and led to a substantial 4% drop in United Airlines' stock value, representing approximately £800 million in market capitalization.
12 Apr Death of Judge Sheila Abdus-Salaam: On April 12, 2017, Judge Sheila Abdus-Salaam, the first African American woman to serve on the New York Court of Appeals, was found dead in the Hudson River. Her death was ruled a suicide, and her passing was mourned as a significant loss to the legal community. source: nytimes.com
13 Apr European Court ruling on Beslan massacre: On April 13, 2017, the European Court of Human Rights ruled on the Beslan school massacre, affirming that Russia failed to protect the victims. The ruling emphasized the need for accountability in state responses to terrorism. source: theguardian.com
14 Apr Penn Station Tasing Incident: An Amtrak police officer tased a man at New York's Penn Station after he became agitated due to a train delay. The incident triggered a false shooting panic, causing a stampede that resulted in more than a dozen injuries, demonstrating the potential for rapid escalation in high-stress public spaces.
15 Apr Turkish Coup Investigation: The Chief Public Prosecutor's Office of Istanbul initiated an investigation into 17 Americans in connection with the previous year's attempted coup d'etat.
18 Apr Facebook Killer Steve Stephens Suicide: Steve Stephens, the suspect in the murder of 74-year-old Robert Godwin, committed suicide after a brief pursuit by Pennsylvania State Police, ending a high-profile manhunt.
20 Apr Russia bans Jehovah's Witnesses: The Russian Supreme Court ruled to ban the Jehovah's Witnesses organization, labeling it as extremist. This decision raised concerns about religious freedom in Russia. source: bbc.com
22 Apr France Implements Social Media Election Communication Restrictions: French voters are protected against last-minute campaign influences through rules banning communication via social networks for 44 hours during elections, from Friday midnight to Sunday 8:00 p.m. CEST.
24 Apr U.S. imposes sanctions on 271 Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Center employees: In response to the April 4, 2017 sarin gas attack in Khan Sheikhoun, Syria, the U.S. Department of the Treasury sanctioned 271 employees of Syria's Scientific Studies and Research Center (SSRC). These individuals were involved in developing and producing non-conventional weapons. The sanctions freeze any U.S.-based assets and prohibit U.S. persons from engaging with them. source: home.treasury.gov
27 Apr Hissène Habré conviction upheld: On April 27, 2017, the African Union-backed court upheld the conviction of former Chadian dictator Hissène Habré for crimes against humanity. This ruling was significant in the context of international justice. source: bbc.com
28 Apr Marine A Release: Sergeant Alexander Blackman, known as 'Marine A', was released from HM Prison Erlestoke after serving over three years of a seven-year sentence, related to a controversial incident in Helmand Province.
29 Apr Wikipedia Blocked in Turkey: The Turkey Blocks Monitoring Group reported a provisional administrative order blocking access to all Turkish language Wikipedia editions, raising concerns about internet censorship.
01 May Saudi Arabia Arrests Militants Connected to Medina Bombing: Saudi authorities announced the arrest of 46 militants linked to the suicide bombing of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina during the previous summer.
02 May Philippine Drug War Political Tensions: Vice President Leni Robredo faced an impeachment case in the House of Representatives after criticizing the country's controversial drug war at the United Nations.
03 May Texas police officer fired for fatal shooting: On May 3, 2017, a Texas police officer was fired after being indicted for the fatal shooting of an unarmed black man. The incident occurred during a traffic stop, leading to widespread protests and discussions about police practices and racial tensions in the United States. source: cnbc.com
05 May India's Supreme Court upholds death sentences for 2012 Delhi gang rape convicts: On May 5, 2017, India's Supreme Court upheld the death sentences for four men convicted in the 2012 gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old medical student in New Delhi. The court described the crime as 'most brutal, barbaric and diabolical,' affirming the lower court's decision. The victim's father expressed satisfaction with the ruling, demanding swift execution of the convicts. source: dw.com
08 May UN Human Rights Council reviews Philippines: On May 8, 2017, the United Nations Human Rights Council conducted a review of the Philippines' human rights record. The session focused on issues such as extrajudicial killings, freedom of expression, and the treatment of indigenous peoples. The review was part of the Universal Periodic Review process, which assesses the human rights practices of all UN member states. source: rappler.com
09 May James Comey fired from FBI: On May 9, 2017, President Donald Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, a decision that sparked widespread controversy and debate. The dismissal occurred during an investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Comey's firing raised questions about the independence of the FBI and the ongoing investigation. source: washingtonpost.com
10 May Subpoenas issued in Flynn Russia investigation: On May 10, 2017, subpoenas were issued to former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn as part of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. The subpoenas sought documents related to Flynn's communications with Russian officials and his business dealings. This marked a significant escalation in the investigation. source: reuters.com
11 May FBI Raids Republican Fundraising Firm: The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducts a raid on a Republican fundraising firm in Annapolis, Maryland, suggesting potential investigation into financial or legal irregularities.
12 May Dutch Court Grants Medical Autonomy to 12-Year-Old: A landmark legal decision in the Netherlands allowed a 12-year-old boy to make his own medical decisions regarding chemotherapy, based on a psychiatric assessment of his decision-making capacity.
15 May Burkina Faso political trial: On May 15, 2017, a political trial began in Burkina Faso concerning the 2015 coup attempt. The trial involved several high-profile figures and was seen as a significant step towards accountability in the country. source: reuters.com
17 May Chelsea Manning released from prison: On May 17, 2017, Chelsea Manning, a former U.S. Army intelligence analyst convicted of leaking classified information, was released from prison after serving seven years of a 35-year sentence. Manning's sentence was commuted by President Barack Obama in January 2017. source: nytimes.com
18 May Times Square Car Accident: A vehicle crashed into pedestrians in New York City's Times Square, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. Police initially investigated the incident as an accident.
19 May Swedish prosecutors drop Assange investigation: Swedish prosecutors discontinued a seven-year investigation into Julian Assange, founder of WikiLeaks, due to challenges in serving him with charges while he was in the Ecuadorian embassy in London. Assange had sought asylum there to avoid extradition to Sweden over sexual assault allegations. Despite the case closure, British authorities stated they would arrest Assange if he left the embassy, as he was still wanted for skipping bail in 2012. source: aljazeera.com
23 May Wikimedia Foundation legal victory: The Wikimedia Foundation achieved a legal victory regarding the right to access information, reinforcing the importance of transparency and freedom of information. This case highlighted ongoing battles over digital rights and access to knowledge. source: nytimes.com
24 May Vermont Governor Vetoes Cannabis Legalization: Phil Scott, Governor of Vermont, vetoed legislation that would have legalized marijuana in the state.
28 May 2017 Mississippi Shootings: A tragic mass shooting occurred in rural Mississippi, resulting in eight deaths, including a deputy from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Department. The suspect was taken into custody, claiming a desire for 'suicide-by-cop'.
29 May Tiger Woods Arrested for Driving While Impaired: Professional golfer Tiger Woods was arrested for driving while impaired due to a mixture of drugs, with no alcohol detected in his system, marking a significant personal and professional setback.
30 May China Labor Watch Team Detained: China Labor Watch reported that one team member was taken into custody and two others remained missing after investigating labor practices at Ganzhou Huajian International Shoe City Co., a manufacturer of Ivanka Trump-branded footwear.
01 Jun US Immigration Ban Supreme Court Review: The Department of Justice requested an expedited Supreme Court review of the Fourth Circuit Appeals Court ruling that blocked the implementation of the revised Executive Order 13780 travel ban, highlighting ongoing legal challenges to the administration's immigration policies.
04 Jun Bahrain Censorship of Al-Wasat Newspaper: Bahrain banned the independent newspaper Al-Wasat, claiming it was 'sowing division' in the Shia-majority kingdom. This action highlighted ongoing tensions and restrictions on press freedom in the country.
07 Jun U.S. House Resolution on Turkish Security Personnel Clashes: The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution (397-0) calling for legal prosecution of Turkish security personnel involved in the May 16 clashes, demonstrating a strong diplomatic response to the incident.
08 Jun Press Freedom Incident Resolution: Montana Congressman Greg Gianforte apologized to journalist Ben Jacobs for the May 24th physical assault and donated US$50,000 to The Committee to Protect Journalists, addressing a significant press freedom violation.
09 Jun Human Rights Violations in Yemen: Human rights activists accused Saudi Arabian and UAE forces of systematic torture and kidnapping of civilians during the ongoing Yemeni conflict.
10 Jun Stabbing Incident in Akulivik, Quebec: A violent stabbing spree in Akulivik, Quebec, left three people dead and two critically injured. Local police responded by fatally shooting the 19-year-old suspect.
11 Jun Trump Emoluments Lawsuit: The attorneys general of Maryland and the District of Columbia planned to sue President Trump for allegedly violating the Constitution's emolument clauses by accepting foreign payments through his business empire.
13 Jun Shooting at Munich Train Station: A shooting incident occurred at the Unterfohring train station in Munich, Germany, where a gunman shot a police officer, leaving her in critical condition. The suspect and two bystanders were injured during a subsequent police shootout. Authorities confirmed this was not a terrorist attack.
14 Jun Emoluments Lawsuit Against Trump: Nearly 200 Democratic Party members filed a federal lawsuit alleging President Trump violated the U.S. Constitution's emolument provisions through foreign business dealings, marking a significant legal challenge to presidential conduct.
15 Jun Japan Passes Controversial Anti-Terrorism Law: The Japanese Diet enacted a new anti-terrorism law that sparked significant controversy, with critics arguing the legislation potentially threatens civil liberties and individual freedoms.
16 Jun Jeronimo Yanez Acquitted: Police officer Jeronimo Yanez was acquitted of all charges related to the fatal shooting of Philando Castile, a case that had drawn significant national attention to issues of police use of force and racial tensions in the United States.
17 Jun Bill Cosby Trial Mistrial: The high-profile sexual assault trial of comedian Bill Cosby at Montgomery County Courthouse concluded with a hung jury, resulting in a mistrial. This marked a significant moment in the ongoing public discourse about sexual misconduct allegations.
19 Jun Supreme Court Free Speech Landmark Decision: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the band 'The Slants' in a landmark free speech case, determining that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's rejection of their trademark was an unconstitutional violation of First Amendment rights.
20 Jun European Court challenges Russia's anti-LGBT law: On June 20, 2017, the European Court of Human Rights ruled against Russia's anti-LGBT law, stating it violated human rights. This decision was seen as a significant step for LGBT rights in Europe. source: bbc.com
21 Jun Beckton Acid Attack: DUPE
22 Jun Deportation Halt for Chaldean Iraqi Christians: A Michigan judge intervened to stop the potential deportation of over 100 Chaldean Iraqi Christians, highlighting complex immigration and humanitarian considerations.
26 Jun Liu Xiaobo released on medical parole: Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo was released from prison on medical parole due to terminal liver cancer. His release came amid international calls for his freedom and highlighted the ongoing human rights issues in China. source: bbc.com
27 Jun Brazilian President Charged with Corruption: Prosecutor General Rodrigo Janot formally charged Brazilian President Michel Temer with corruption, referring the case to the Supreme Federal Court. This development represented a significant political crisis in Brazil.
29 Jun Potential legalization of same-sex marriage in Germany: On June 29, 2017, the German Bundestag voted to legalize same-sex marriage, marking a significant milestone in LGBTQ rights in the country. The legislation was seen as a major step forward for equality and social justice. source: bbc.com
30 Jun Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Shooting: A tragic incident at Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center resulted in the death of a doctor and injuries to five other individuals, causing shock and concern about workplace violence and hospital security.
01 Jul Singapore's Protest Restriction Law: Singapore implemented a new law prohibiting foreigners from participating in protests, further tightening restrictions on public demonstrations and political activism.
02 Jul US Lifts Electronics Ban on Abu Dhabi Flights: The United States removed the ban on electronic devices in cabin flights between Abu Dhabi and the U.S., signaling an improvement in aviation security assessments and international travel regulations.
04 Jul Ukrainian Cyberattack Investigation: Ukrainian police seized the servers of M.E.Doc, the country's most popular accounting software company, as part of an ongoing investigation into recent cyberattacks.
05 Jul USA extends refugee application deadline: On July 5, 2017, the U.S. government announced an extension of the refugee application deadline, allowing more individuals to apply for asylum. This decision was part of ongoing discussions about immigration policy. source: reuters.com
09 Jul Beckton Acid Attack Suspect Surrenders: The primary suspect in the June 21, 2017 Beckton acid attack voluntarily turned himself in to local law enforcement authorities.
11 Jul Turkish IT Worker Arrests: Turkish authorities ordered the arrest of 105 information technology workers suspected of involvement in a government overthrow attempt, continuing the country's post-coup purges.
12 Jul Monkey selfie case heard by U.S. Court of Appeals: On July 12, 2017, the U.S. Court of Appeals began hearing a case regarding a selfie taken by a Celebes crested macaque. The case questions whether the monkey can claim ownership of the image, raising important legal and ethical issues. source: npr.org
13 Jul Major health care fraud prosecution: On July 13, 2017, federal authorities announced a major health care fraud prosecution involving multiple defendants accused of defrauding Medicare and Medicaid. This case underscored ongoing efforts to combat health care fraud in the United States. source: justice.gov
14 Jul Peru Corruption Investigation: In the ongoing Operation Car Wash corruption probe, a Lima court ordered 18 months of pre-trial detention for former Peruvian President Ollanta Humala and his wife Nadine Heredia on money laundering allegations. Both voluntarily surrendered to authorities.
18 Jul Turkey arrests Amnesty International personnel: On July 18, 2017, Turkish authorities arrested several staff members of Amnesty International, including its director in Turkey, as part of a crackdown on dissent. The arrests drew international condemnation and raised concerns about human rights in Turkey. source: bbc.com
19 Jul Murder of Justine Damond Sparks International Outrage: Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull expressed shock and demanded answers following the tragic killing of Justine Damond, an Australian woman who was shot by a U.S. police officer after calling 911 to report a suspected assault near her home in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
20 Jul O. J. Simpson granted parole: On July 20, 2017, O. J. Simpson was granted parole after serving nine years for armed robbery and kidnapping. The decision was met with significant media attention and public interest. source: nytimes.com
21 Jul Minneapolis Police Chief Resigns: Minneapolis Police Chief Janee Harteau resigned at the request of Mayor Betsy Hodges following a tragic incident and other recent events, signaling a significant leadership change in the city's law enforcement.
22 Jul Tragic human trafficking incident in Texas: On July 22, 2017, a tragic incident involving human trafficking was reported in Texas, where multiple victims were discovered in a truck. This incident raised awareness about the ongoing issues of human trafficking in the U.S. source: cnn.com
25 Jul JFK Assassination Documents Declassified: Previously classified documents related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy were made publicly accessible, potentially offering new insights into this historic event.
26 Jul Fatal Incident on Emerald Princess Cruise Ship: A disturbing incident occurred aboard the Emerald Princess cruise ship heading to Juneau, Alaska, where a woman was killed. The FBI launched an investigation, and passengers were taken into custody with suspicions of domestic violence.
28 Jul FAA Seat Size Regulation Challenge: U.S. Appeals Court Judge Patricia Millett challenged the Federal Aviation Administration's stance on passenger space, ordering the agency to establish minimum standards for emergency aircraft evacuation, highlighting passenger safety concerns.
01 Aug Christopher A. Wray confirmed as FBI director: On August 1, 2017, Christopher A. Wray was confirmed by the Senate as the new director of the FBI. His appointment came amid heightened scrutiny of the agency's role in various investigations. source: nytimes.com
02 Aug US Justice Department Investigates College Admissions: The U.S. Justice Department announces an internal investigation into college admissions policies potentially discriminating against Asian American applicants, signaling a significant review of affirmative action practices.
03 Aug Chile Legalizes Abortion in Certain Circumstances: Chilean legislators approved a bill to legalize abortion under specific conditions, ending Chile's status as the last South American country with a complete abortion ban.
05 Aug Mosque Bombing in Bloomington: An improvised explosive device is detonated at a mosque in Bloomington, Minnesota. The FBI has launched an investigation into this potential hate crime.
10 Aug FBI raids Paul Manafort's home: On August 10, 2017, the FBI conducted a raid on the home of Paul Manafort, former campaign chairman for Donald Trump, as part of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. This marked a significant development in the ongoing inquiry. source: nytimes.com
13 Aug Grace Mugabe Assault Accusation: Grace Mugabe, wife of Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, faced assault allegations in Johannesburg, South Africa, creating diplomatic tension and public controversy.
14 Aug India's Rohingya Refugee Deportation Plan: On August 14, 2017, India's Deputy Interior Minister Kiren Rijiju announced plans to deport approximately 40,000 Rohingya Muslims residing in India, including those registered with the UN Refugee Agency. The government classified them as illegal immigrants, despite their registration status. Human rights organizations, such as Human Rights Watch, criticized the plan, emphasizing India's international obligations to protect refugees from deportation to countries where they face persecution. source: aljazeera.com
15 Aug ICC Arrest of Mahmoud Al-Werfalli: The International Criminal Court arrested Mahmoud Al-Werfalli for war crimes, specifically for allegedly overseeing the execution of more than 30 prisoners during the Libyan Civil War.
16 Aug Philippine Drug War Police Raids: In a controversial continuation of the Philippine Drug War, a series of police raids near Manila resulted in the deaths of at least 32 people, further intensifying international concerns about extrajudicial killings in the country.
22 Aug India bans practice of triple talaq: On August 22, 2017, the Indian government passed a law banning the practice of triple talaq, allowing Muslim men to divorce their wives by uttering 'talaq' three times. The law criminalized the practice, making it punishable by up to three years in prison. source: bbc.com
25 Aug Samsung Heir Convicted in Corruption Scandal: Lee Jae-yong (Jay Y. Lee), vice-chairman of Samsung Group, was sentenced for his role in the 2016 South Korean political scandal that led to the impeachment of President Park Geun Hye. This landmark case highlighted corporate corruption and its intersection with political power in South Korea.
26 Aug Trump Pardons Joe Arpaio: President Trump pardoned Joe Arpaio, the controversial former Arizona sheriff who was convicted of criminal contempt for repeatedly defying a court order to stop imprisoning suspected illegal immigrants.
27 Aug Guatemala Constitutional Court Blocks Presidential Expulsion Order: The Constitutional Court of Guatemala lifted President Jimmy Morales' order to expel the head of the U.N. Anti-Corruption Commission, protecting the integrity of the anti-corruption investigation.
28 Aug German Serial Killer Niels Hogel Investigation: Investigations into Niels Hogel, a German nurse, revealed he is potentially the most prolific serial killer in modern German history, with estimates suggesting he may have murdered up to 84 patients during his medical career.
29 Aug Grand Jury Indicts Turkish Security Officers: A Washington, D.C. grand jury indicted 19 individuals, including 15 Turkish security officers, for their involvement in an attack on protesters near the Turkish Ambassador's residence in May 2017.
30 Aug Brazilian Court Blocks Amazon Mining Proposal: A Brazilian court prevented President Michel Temer from abolishing Renca, a move that would have opened significant portions of the Amazon rainforest to mining activities, thus protecting the environmentally sensitive region.
31 Aug Mumbai Building Collapse Tragedy: In Mumbai, India, a dilapidated multi-story apartment building collapsed, resulting in at least 24 deaths and 12 people missing, underscoring serious urban infrastructure and safety concerns.
01 Sep Judge Richard Posner Retires: Renowned federal judge Richard Posner announces retirement from the U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals after three decades of service. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981, he has written over 3,300 judicial opinions.
02 Sep Trump Tower wiretapping investigation conclusion: On September 2, 2017, the investigation into allegations of wiretapping at Trump Tower concluded without evidence supporting the claims. This finding was part of ongoing discussions regarding surveillance and political controversies. source: reuters.com
03 Sep Frankfurt World War II Bomb Evacuation: Large areas of Frankfurt, Germany were evacuated to defuse a 1.4-ton unexploded bomb from a World War II Royal Air Force raid. This was the largest European evacuation since World War II, with approximately 60,000 people relocated while expert bomb disposal specialists successfully neutralized the explosive.
04 Sep Italian Fugitive Rocco Morabito Captured in Uruguay: After 23 years on the run, Rocco Morabito, a notorious member of the 'Ndrangheta organized crime syndicate, was arrested in Montevideo, Uruguay. He is expected to be extradited to Italy to face justice.
05 Sep Murder of Journalist Gauri Lankesh: Gauri Lankesh, a prominent Indian journalist and editor of Lankesh Patrike, was shot dead by unidentified men outside her home in Bengaluru, sparking national outrage and discussions about press freedom.
07 Sep Equifax Data Breach: On September 7, 2017, Equifax, one of the largest credit reporting agencies in the United States, announced a significant data breach that exposed the personal information of approximately 147 million Americans. The breach included sensitive data such as Social Security numbers, birth dates, and addresses, raising concerns about identity theft and data security. source: nytimes.com
08 Sep Brazilian Prosecutor Challenges President Temer: Rodrigo Janot, a Brazilian prosecutor, filed charges against President Michel Temer's political party, accusing officials of forming a criminal organization at the Supreme Court.
09 Sep Uruguay Vice President Resigns: Raul Sendic, Vice President of Uruguay, resigned amid an ongoing corruption investigation, highlighting political accountability in the country.
11 Sep DACA Lawsuit Against Trump Administration: California, Maine, and Maryland filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration challenging the termination of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which protects young undocumented immigrants from deportation.
12 Sep Supreme Court allows partial refugee ban: On September 12, 2017, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed a partial implementation of the Trump administration's travel ban affecting refugees from several countries. This decision was part of ongoing legal battles surrounding immigration policies and national security. source: nytimes.com
13 Sep Martin Shkreli's Bail Revoked After Clinton Threat: Martin Shkreli, a former businessman convicted of fraud, has his bail revoked after posting a $5,000 bounty on Twitter for anyone who could obtain Hillary Clinton's hair, which was deemed a threat.
14 Sep Google Gender Pay Discrimination Lawsuit: Google faced legal action over allegations of unequal pay practices between male and female employees, highlighting ongoing gender equity challenges in the technology industry.
18 Sep Wayne Rooney Pleads Guilty to Drunk Driving: England footballer Wayne Rooney pleaded guilty to drunk driving and was subsequently banned from driving for two years, highlighting issues of personal responsibility among professional athletes.
23 Sep London Acid Attacks: Six people were injured in coordinated acid attacks at a tube station and mall in Stratford, East London. A 15-year-old suspect was taken into custody, highlighting growing concerns about acid-related violence in the city.
24 Sep Serial Killer Orville Lynn Majors Dies in Prison: Orville Lynn Majors, a notorious serial killer from Indiana known for targeting elderly patients, died in prison. He was suspected of murdering up to 130 individuals in nursing homes between 1993 and 1995, making him one of the most prolific healthcare serial killers in U.S. history.
25 Sep US Senator Blocks Obamacare Repeal: Senator Susan Collins announced her opposition to the Graham-Cassidy bill, potentially ending the latest Republican attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
26 Sep US Homeland Security expands social media surveillance: On September 26, 2017, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced plans to expand its social media surveillance efforts. This initiative aimed to monitor social media platforms for potential threats, raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties. source: washingtonpost.com
27 Sep Yingluck Shinawatra Sentenced in Absentia: Former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra was sentenced to five years imprisonment in absentia for criminal negligence related to a rice subsidy scheme.
01 Oct O.J. Simpson Prison Release: O.J. Simpson, a former NFL player, was released from a Nevada prison after serving nine years for an armed robbery. Simpson had previously been acquitted of the 1995 murder of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman.
02 Oct Ecuador Vice President Imprisoned: The Supreme Court of Ecuador ordered Vice President Jorge Glas to be imprisoned for allegedly accepting bribes from the Odebrecht construction firm, signaling a significant moment in the country's ongoing anti-corruption efforts.
04 Oct Cesare Battisti Arrest: Brazilian police arrested Cesare Battisti, a fugitive Italian left-wing guerrilla leader and convicted murderer, as he attempted to escape across Bolivia's border. Battisti was trying to avoid extradition to Italy, where he faces a life sentence for four murders committed in the 1970s.
05 Oct Trump Administration Reverses Transgender Worker Protections: The Trump administration reversed an Obama-era policy that used Title VII of the Civil Rights Act to protect transgender workers from employment discrimination, marking a significant shift in LGBTQ+ workplace rights.
07 Oct London Exhibition Road Incident: An unusual traffic incident occurred near the Natural History Museum on Exhibition Road, where a vehicle mounted a pedestrian walkway, injuring 11 people. London police quickly responded, arresting the driver, who was subsequently released. The incident was not initially suspected to be terror-related.
09 Oct Bosnian War Crimes Court Acquittal: The Sarajevo War Crimes Court, presided over by Judge Saban Maksumic, acquitted former Bosnian military officer Naser Oric of charges related to the murder of three Bosnian Serb prisoners-of-war. The International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia also cleared Oric of failing to prevent the deaths of five prisoners and the mistreatment of eleven detainees between late 1992 and early 1993.
12 Oct DeAndre Harris Legal Situation after Unite the Right Rally: DeAndre Harris, a black man who was beaten by white supremacists during the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, turns himself in after being issued an arrest warrant for an alleged counterattack on a white supremacist at the same rally.
16 Oct Assassination of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia: Daphne Caruana Galizia, a prominent Maltese journalist known for her investigative work, was assassinated on October 16, 2017, by a car bomb. Her death sparked widespread outrage and protests in Malta, highlighting issues of press freedom and corruption. source: bbc.com
17 Oct Trump travel ban blocked by federal judge: A federal judge issued a ruling on October 17, 2017, blocking President Trump's travel ban targeting several predominantly Muslim countries. This decision was part of ongoing legal challenges to the administration's immigration policies. source: reuters.com
18 Oct Maryland Workplace Shooting Incident: A tragic workplace shooting in Edgewood, Maryland resulted in three fatalities and two critical injuries. The suspect, Radee Labeeb Prince, fled to Delaware and allegedly committed another shooting in Wilmington before being captured in Newark.
24 Oct US Senate Votes to Limit Bank Lawsuit Accessibility: Vice President Mike Pence cast a tie-breaking vote to repeal a rule that would have made it easier for Americans to sue banks and credit card companies.
26 Oct IRS targeting controversy settled: On October 26, 2017, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced a settlement in the controversy over its targeting of conservative groups. The settlement included an apology and a $3.5 million payment to resolve claims that the IRS had unfairly scrutinized certain political groups during the 2010 and 2012 elections. source: nytimes.com
27 Oct Burundi Expelled from International Criminal Court: Burundi became the first country to be expelled from the International Criminal Court (ICC), amid accusations of human rights violations. The government was charged with crimes against humanity, including the torture of political opponents, and claimed the ICC was deliberately targeting African nations.
28 Oct Fatal Bus Accident in Nepal: A tragic bus accident occurred in the Dhading District of central Nepal when a bus skidded off the road and crashed into the Trishuli River, resulting in at least 19 fatalities and 16 injuries.
29 Oct Capture of Benghazi Attack Suspect: FBI agents and American special operations forces, in coordination with Libya's internationally recognized government, captured Mustafa al-Imam. Al-Imam is a militant accused of involvement in the 2012 Benghazi attacks, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigation.
30 Oct Court Blocks Trump's Transgender Military Ban: The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia halted President Donald Trump's proposed ban on new transgender recruits in the U.S. military, representing a significant legal victory for LGBTQ+ rights and military inclusivity.
31 Oct Deadly Highway 400 Multi-Vehicle Accident: A tragic multi-vehicle accident on Highway 400 resulted in three fatalities. The collision involved 14 vehicles, including two tanker trucks. Police investigations suggested that distracted driving was the primary cause of this devastating crash.
01 Nov France ends state of emergency: On November 1, 2017, France officially ended its state of emergency, which had been in place since the November 2015 terrorist attacks. This decision reflected a shift in the country's security policy and approach to civil liberties. source: bbc.com
02 Nov UK Defense Secretary Resigns Over Harassment Allegations: Michael Fallon resigned as British Defense Minister after admitting to inappropriate past behavior towards women, reflecting the growing global conversation about sexual misconduct in professional settings.
03 Nov Bowe Bergdahl Convicted of Desertion: U.S. soldier Bowe Bergdahl was convicted of desertion, dishonorably discharged from the military, but not imprisoned, concluding a controversial case that attracted significant media attention.
04 Nov US terminates Temporary Protected Status for refugees: On November 4, 2017, the United States announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for refugees from several countries, including Haiti, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. This decision affected thousands of individuals who had been living in the U.S. under TPS for years. source: nytimes.com
05 Nov Senator Rand Paul Assault: Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky was attacked by a neighbor at his home, resulting in fractured ribs and vertebrae. The incident highlighted tensions in personal and neighborhood relationships.
06 Nov US Immigration Policy Controversy: The Trump Administration announced plans to potentially revoke citizenship of four Somali Americans suspected of abusing the Diversity Immigrant Visa program, reflecting ongoing immigration policy tensions.
07 Nov Japanese Serial Killer Sentenced: Chisako Kakehi, known as Japan's 'Black Widow', was sentenced to death for murdering three men, including her husband, in a high-profile criminal case that shocked Japanese society.
08 Nov Kevin Spacey Sexual Assault Allegations: On November 8, 2017, actor Kevin Spacey faced multiple allegations of sexual assault, leading to his removal from the Netflix series 'House of Cards' and other professional consequences. source: nytimes.com
09 Nov Roy Moore sexual misconduct allegations: On November 9, 2017, allegations of sexual misconduct against Alabama Senate candidate Roy Moore surfaced, leading to significant media coverage and political fallout. The allegations raised questions about his candidacy and the Republican Party's support. source: nytimes.com
16 Nov Senator Bob Menendez corruption trial ends in mistrial: On November 16, 2017, a federal judge declared a mistrial in the corruption case against Senator Bob Menendez after the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict on any of the charges. The trial had lasted over two months, with Menendez facing allegations of accepting bribes from a wealthy doctor in exchange for political favors. The Department of Justice considered whether to retry the case, but ultimately dropped all charges in January 2018. source: washingtonpost.com
17 Nov Mistrial in Menendez Corruption Case: A federal judge in New Jersey declared a mistrial in Senator Robert Menendez's corruption trial after the jury deadlocked for the second time, highlighting complexities in political corruption legal proceedings.
18 Nov Unexpected Death of Spanish Attorney General: Jose Manuel Maza, the Spanish Attorney General, unexpectedly passed away in Buenos Aires at the age of 66 after a sudden illness, creating a significant moment of national mourning in Spain.
19 Nov Death of Charles Manson: Charles Manson, the notorious cult leader responsible for orchestrating multiple murders, including the infamous killing of Sharon Tate, died at the age of 83.
20 Nov Haitian Temporary Protected Status Revocation: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced it would not renew the 'temporary protected status' for approximately 50,000 Haitian immigrants, potentially forcing their return after years of residency in the United States.
21 Nov U.S. sanctions on North Korean shipping companies: The U.S. imposed new sanctions on North Korean shipping companies in response to ongoing nuclear activities. This move aimed to increase pressure on the regime. source: reuters.com
22 Nov Ratko Mladić convicted of genocide: On November 22, 2017, Ratko Mladić, former Bosnian Serb military leader, was convicted of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. He was sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the Bosnian War, including the Srebrenica massacre. source: icty.org
23 Nov Robinho convicted of rape in Italy: On November 23, 2017, Brazilian footballer Robson de Souza, known as Robinho, was convicted of sexual assault in Italy. The court sentenced him to nine years in prison for the 2013 incident involving a 22-year-old Albanian woman. source: bbc.com
24 Nov Oscar Pistorius Sentence Increased: The Supreme Court of Appeal increased Oscar Pistorius' sentence for the murder of Reeva Steenkamp to 13 years and 5 months, affirming the severity of his crime and providing further legal closure to the high-profile case.
28 Nov Seminole Heights Serial Killer Arrest: Tampa police arrested Howell Emanuel Donaldson III and charged him with four murder counts in the Seminole Heights serial killings.
30 Nov Mueller Team Interviews Jared Kushner About Flynn: Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation team conducted an interview with Jared Kushner regarding his involvement with former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn.
01 Dec Michael Flynn pleads guilty to lying to the FBI: On December 1, 2017, Michael Flynn, former National Security Advisor to President Donald Trump, pleaded guilty to making false statements to the FBI regarding his contacts with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. Flynn admitted to lying about discussions concerning U.S. sanctions and a United Nations Security Council resolution condemning Israeli settlements. He agreed to cooperate with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. source: washingtonpost.com
04 Dec Malta Arrests in Journalist Murder Case: Maltese authorities arrested 10 individuals in connection with the October 16th murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, marking a significant development in the high-profile investigation.
07 Dec Australia legalizes same-sex marriage: On December 7, 2017, Australia legalized same-sex marriage following a national postal survey in which a majority of Australians voted in favor. The legislation allowed same-sex couples to marry and marked a significant milestone in the country's LGBTQ+ rights movement. source: theguardian.com
08 Dec US Representative Trent Franks Resigns: US Representative Trent Franks from Arizona's 8th Congressional District immediately resigned following allegations that he inappropriately asked a female staffer to be a surrogate mother.
11 Dec U.S. Military Transgender Recruitment Policy: U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar Kotelly denied the Trump Administration's request to enforce a ban on transgender troops, reaffirming that the U.S. military must accept transgender recruits starting January 1, 2018.
13 Dec Ecuadorian Vice President Sentenced for Corruption: Jorge Glas, Ecuador's Vice President, was sentenced to six years in prison for financial corruption related to the Odebrecht Brazilian construction company. The ruling remains appealable and has not yet been implemented.
14 Dec Guatemala Supreme Court Blocks Human Rights Manual: Guatemala's Supreme Court of Justice ruled against the Procuratorate of Human Rights, prohibiting the use of a manual for workshops on health education due to its views on abortion, which are considered illegal in the country.
15 Dec Australian child sexual abuse report: On December 15, 2017, the Australian government released a report detailing widespread child sexual abuse in institutions. The report highlighted systemic failures and called for reforms to protect children and support survivors. source: theguardian.com
17 Dec Australia Arrests North Korean Economic Agent: The Australian Federal Police arrested Chan Han Choi, a naturalized North Korean acting as an economic agent in violation of UN and Australian sanctions.
20 Dec European Commission challenges Poland's judiciary reforms: The European Commission initiated legal action against Poland over its controversial judiciary reforms, arguing that they undermine the independence of the judiciary. This move reflects ongoing tensions between the EU and Poland regarding rule of law issues. source: bbc.com
24 Dec Alberto Fujimori Pardoned by Peruvian President: On December 24, 2017, Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski pardoned former President Alberto Fujimori, who had been serving a prison sentence for human rights abuses and corruption. The decision sparked widespread controversy and protests within Peru. source: bbc.com
25 Dec Fatal Traffic Collision in Philippines: A devastating collision between a jeepney and a bus in La Union, Philippines, resulted in at least 19 fatalities and 25 injuries on Christmas Day 2017.
26 Dec Egypt Executes Militants from Sinai Insurgency: Egypt executed fifteen militants accused of carrying out attacks during the 2013 Sinai Insurgency, marking a significant moment in the country's counterterrorism efforts. This follows a previous mass execution of six jihadists in 2015.
30 Dec Hostage Situation in Kharkiv, Ukraine: A tense hostage situation unfolded in Kharkiv, Ukraine, where a man with explosives took 11 people captive. Ukrainian police successfully negotiated and resolved the crisis, freeing all hostages and arresting the perpetrator without casualties.

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