2018 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights

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2018 Law & Justice Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to


  • 02 Jan Israel's Plan to Deport African Migrants: Israel announced plans to deport African migrants residing illegally in the country, giving them 90 days to leave or face potential arrest, sparking international human rights concerns.
  • 03 Jan Iceland Implements Equal Pay Legislation: On January 3, 2018, Iceland implemented legislation requiring companies and government agencies with 25 or more employees to prove they offer equal pay for equal work. The law aimed to close the gender pay gap and promote workplace equality. Employers are required to obtain a government certificate demonstrating their compliance with the equal pay standard, marking a significant step toward gender equality in the workplace. source: reuters.com
  • 04 Jan Trump Administration Rescinds Obama-Era Marijuana Policy: On January 4, 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions rescinded the Cole Memorandum, which had previously deprioritized federal enforcement of marijuana laws in states where the drug was legalized. This move allowed federal prosecutors to decide how aggressively to pursue marijuana-related cases. source: lpm.org
  • 05 Jan Belgium and Netherlands Border Adjustment: Belgium and the Netherlands resolved a border jurisdiction issue by exchanging 48 acres of land, with the new border defined by the center of the Meuse River. This diplomatic land swap aimed to clarify police jurisdiction in the region.
  • 07 Jan Weinstein Effect: Norwegian Politician Resigns: Trond Giske resigned as deputy leader of Norway's Labour Party and from the parliamentary finance committee following multiple allegations of sexual assault, reflecting the broader global #MeToo movement.
  • 11 Jan Rappler's License Revoked in Philippines: The Philippines' Securities and Exchange Commission revoked Rappler's license, citing violations of constitutional restrictions on foreign ownership. Critics condemned the move as an attack on press freedom under President Rodrigo Duterte's administration.
  • 12 Jan Nigel Farage Repays Parliamentary Funds: European Parliament auditors found that Nigel Farage misused parliamentary resources for UKIP party issues. As a result, he will repay €40,000 through salary withholding, highlighting accountability in political spending.
  • 14 Jan Turpin Child Abuse Case: A shocking case of child abuse emerged in Perris, California, where a couple was arrested for holding their 13 children captive and subjecting them to severe abuse.
  • 15 Jan Indonesia Stock Exchange Mezzanine Collapse: A dramatic structural failure occurs at the Indonesia Stock Exchange in Jakarta, where the mezzanine overlooking the main lobby collapses, injuring at least 70 people. The Indonesian National Police ruled out terrorism as the cause of the incident.
  • 16 Jan Mueller subpoenas Steve Bannon in Russia investigation: On January 16, 2018, special counsel Robert Mueller issued a subpoena to Steve Bannon, former chief strategist to President Donald Trump, as part of the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Bannon was required to testify before a grand jury regarding his knowledge of events related to the investigation. source: nytimes.com
  • 17 Jan Memorial Human Rights Office Attacked in Ingushetia: On January 17, 2018, arsonists targeted the Memorial office, a renowned Russian human rights organization, in Nazran, Ingushetia. This attack underscores the ongoing challenges and risks faced by human rights organizations in the North Caucasus region.
  • 19 Jan Twitter Reveals Russian Election Interference Contacts: Twitter announced it would notify 677,775 Americans about their contact with the Kremlin-linked Internet Research Agency during the 2016 election, revealing ongoing investigations into foreign digital election interference.
  • 20 Jan Odebrecht Corruption Case in Guatemala: Manuel Baldizon, a former presidential candidate, was detained in the United States and accused of accepting bribes from Odebrecht, a major corruption scandal involving the Brazilian construction company.
  • 24 Jan Larry Nassar sentenced to 40 to 175 years for sexual abuse: Former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar was sentenced to 40 to 175 years in prison after over 150 women detailed decades of sexual assault under his care. source: pbs.org
  • 25 Jan Guatemala Corruption Investigation: The UN's Anticorruption Commission reported a significant corruption case within Guatemala's Tax Administration, resulting in the arrest of nine individuals, including the former organization president.
  • 26 Jan Guatemalan Political Corruption Scandal: Former Defense Minister Williams Mansilla was arrested in connection with a corruption case involving President Jimmy Morales. Simultaneously, the Attorney General requested the Supreme Court reconsider the president's impeachment, highlighting ongoing political instability in Guatemala.
  • 29 Jan Andrew McCabe resigns from FBI: Andrew McCabe, Deputy Director of the FBI, resigned amid ongoing investigations into the agency's handling of the Clinton email probe and alleged political bias. His departure was seen as a significant moment in the FBI's history. source: nytimes.com
  • 02 Feb Finsbury Park Attack Sentencing: Darren Osborne was sentenced to life imprisonment for the terrorist attack targeting Muslims in London on 19 June 2017. The sentencing highlighted ongoing concerns about hate crimes and religious discrimination.
  • 03 Feb Racist Shooting in Italy: A shooting incident in Macerata, Italy, left six African immigrants injured. The suspect was arrested and the case was classified as a racially motivated crime.
  • 04 Feb Melbourne Lord Mayor Resigns Over Misconduct Allegations: Robert Doyle resigned as Lord Mayor of Melbourne following sexual misconduct allegations, which are being investigated by the Melbourne City Council.
  • 08 Feb Bermuda's same-sex marriage legal reversal: On February 8, 2018, Bermuda's government reversed its legalization of same-sex marriage, making it the first jurisdiction to do so. This decision sparked debates over LGBTQ+ rights and legal precedents. source: cbc.ca
  • 10 Feb Westerville Police Officers Killed: A tragic incident occurred in Ohio where two Westerville Police Department officers were killed in an ambush-style attack stemming from a domestic dispute between the perpetrator and his wife.
  • 13 Feb Ahed Tamimi indicted in Israeli military court: On February 13, 2018, Ahed Tamimi, a Palestinian teenager, was indicted in an Israeli military court on charges of assault and incitement. The charges stemmed from a December 2017 incident where she slapped an Israeli soldier during a protest in the West Bank. Tamimi's case drew international attention and sparked debates over the treatment of Palestinian minors in Israeli military courts. source: aljazeera.com
  • 15 Feb Barry Bennell convicted of sexual abuse: On February 15, 2018, former football coach Barry Bennell was convicted of multiple counts of sexual abuse against young players in the UK. The case brought to light the issue of sexual abuse in youth sports and led to increased awareness and reforms in safeguarding practices. source: bbc.com
  • 16 Feb Guantanamo Bay Detainee Acquitted: In a significant legal development, the Court of Appeal in Rabat, Morocco, has acquitted Younes Chekkouri of undermining state security. Chekkouri had spent an extraordinary 14 years in Guantanamo Bay's detention camp without being formally charged, highlighting ongoing concerns about due process in counter-terrorism detention.
  • 19 Feb Barry Bennell sentenced to 31 years in prison for sexual abuse: Former football coach Barry Bennell was sentenced to 31 years in prison after being convicted of 50 sexual offences against 12 boys over a 31-year period. The judge described his actions as 'sheer evil' and stated that he 'stole their childhoods and their innocence to satisfy your own perversion.' source: si.com
  • 20 Feb Alex van der Zwaan pleads guilty in Mueller investigation: Alex van der Zwaan, a former lawyer with ties to the Trump campaign, pleaded guilty to lying to federal investigators about his communications with former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his deputy Rick Gates, marking the first guilty plea in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. source: cnbc.com
  • 21 Feb Deadly Bus Accident in Peru: A tragic bus accident on the Pan-American Highway in Arequipa, Peru, claimed 44 lives when the coach veered off the road, representing one of the deadliest transportation accidents of the day.
  • 22 Feb Mueller indicts Manafort and Gates: Special Counsel Robert Mueller indicted former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his deputy Rick Gates on charges including conspiracy against the United States, marking a significant development in the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. source: cnbc.com
  • 26 Feb Weinstein Co. to File for Bankruptcy: The Weinstein Company announced plans to file for bankruptcy, following the high-profile sexual misconduct allegations against co-founder Harvey Weinstein that sparked the global #MeToo movement.
  • 01 Mar Senate Intelligence Committee text message leak controversy: In early March 2018, a controversy emerged involving the leak of text messages between members of the Senate Intelligence Committee, raising concerns about the security and confidentiality of congressional communications. source: cbsnews.com
  • 03 Mar Florida Senate rejects assault weapon ban after Parkland shooting: On March 3, 2018, the Florida Senate voted against a proposed ban on assault weapons in the aftermath of the Parkland school shooting. The decision reflected the ongoing debate over gun control measures in the United States, with the majority of senators opposing the ban despite public outcry and the tragedy that had occurred. source: cnn.com
  • 04 Mar Building Collapse in Poznan: A tragic building collapse in Poznan, Poland, resulted in four fatalities and twenty injuries. The incident prompted immediate rescue and investigation efforts to determine the cause of the structural failure.
  • 06 Mar Kellyanne Conway Accused of Hatch Act Violation: The U.S. Office of Special Counsel claimed that White House counselor Kellyanne Conway violated the Hatch Act of 1939 during two television interviews in 2017, potentially breaching federal regulations on political activities.
  • 07 Mar Florida passes gun safety legislation: On March 7, 2018, Florida lawmakers passed new gun safety legislation in response to the Parkland school shooting. The law included measures such as raising the minimum age to purchase firearms and implementing waiting periods. source: bbc.com
  • 09 Mar Martin Shkreli Sentenced for Securities Fraud: Martin Shkreli, known for controversial pharmaceutical pricing, was sentenced to seven years in prison by a Brooklyn federal court for securities fraud involving his hedge fund and two pharmaceutical companies.
  • 10 Mar Post-Stoneman Douglas Gun Control Developments: On March 10, 2018, developments in gun control discussions followed the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting. Advocacy for stricter gun laws gained momentum, with various groups mobilizing for change. source: nytimes.com
  • 12 Mar Austin Package Bomb Attacks: Austin police confirmed a series of connected package bomb attacks that killed two people and injured another. The bombs were strategically placed at different locations and not delivered through standard delivery services, creating significant public safety concerns.
  • 13 Mar Tragic Bus Crash in Ethiopia: A devastating bus accident in Ethiopia's Amhara Region resulted in at least 38 fatalities, with most victims being students, underscoring transportation safety challenges in the region.
  • 14 Mar Mossack Fonseca Closes Down: Panamanian law firm Mossack Fonseca announced its closure due to severe reputational and economic damage caused by its involvement in the global Panama Papers tax evasion scandal, which exposed widespread international tax avoidance strategies.
  • 18 Mar Stephon Clark Shooting: An African American man, Stephon Clark, was fatally shot 20 times by police in his grandmother's backyard in Sacramento, California, during a vandalism investigation, sparking national discussions about racial profiling and police use of force.
  • 19 Mar Turpin Children Released: The seven 'Turpin children,' who were victims of severe abuse, were released from Corona Regional Medical Center in California and placed in an undisclosed residential facility to begin rebuilding their lives.
  • 25 Mar Catalonia's ex-president detained in Germany: Carles Puigdemont, the former president of Catalonia, was arrested by German authorities in Schleswig-Holstein on March 25, 2018, based on a European Arrest Warrant issued by Spain. He was detained while attempting to cross from Denmark into Germany en route to Belgium. Puigdemont faced charges of sedition and rebellion related to Catalonia's 2017 independence referendum. He was released on bail, and German courts later ruled he could be extradited to Spain for misuse of public funds but not for rebellion. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 26 Mar Murder of Holocaust Survivor Shocks France: Two French police officers were held in connection with the murder of an 85-year-old Holocaust survivor, whose body was found in her burned apartment. Prosecutors investigated potential religious motivation.
  • 27 Mar UK Terrorist Sentenced for Child Indoctrination: Umar Haque, a convicted terrorist who indoctrinated children in London to potentially commit attacks, is sentenced to life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 25 years by Old Bailey Justice Charles Haddon-Cave.
  • 28 Mar Migrant Rescue Vessel Seizure in Sicily: A Catania judge upheld the seizure of a Proactiva Open Arms vessel after it refused to hand migrants over to the Libyan Coast Guard, highlighting the complex legal and humanitarian challenges surrounding Mediterranean migration.
  • 29 Mar Deadly Prison Riot in Venezuela: A catastrophic incident at a prison in Valencia, Carabobo State, Venezuela, resulted in at least 68 fatalities during an attempted prison break, rioting, and subsequent fires. Two visiting women were believed to be among the victims.
  • 04 Apr First ICC Indictment of Malian War Criminal: On April 4, 2018, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued its first indictment against a Malian war criminal. The indictment was related to alleged war crimes committed during the 2012 conflict in Mali, marking a significant step in the ICC's efforts to address impunity for such crimes in the region. source: icc-cpi.int
  • 05 Apr Large-Scale ICE Workplace Raid in Tennessee: On April 5, 2018, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a large-scale workplace raid at a meatpacking plant in Tennessee, arresting over 100 undocumented workers. The operation was part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to enforce immigration laws more strictly. source: npr.org
  • 06 Apr Park Geun-hye Sentenced: Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye was sentenced to 24 years in prison and fined 18 billion won for corruption, bribery, and coercion. This landmark case represented a significant moment in South Korean political history, demonstrating the country's commitment to combating high-level political corruption.
  • 07 Apr Arrest of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva: On April 7, 2018, former Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was arrested after surrendering to authorities to serve a prison sentence for corruption charges. His arrest marked a significant moment in Brazilian politics, as he was a leading candidate in the upcoming presidential election. source: bbc.com
  • 09 Apr FBI raids Michael Cohen's properties: On April 9, 2018, the FBI executed search warrants at the properties of Michael Cohen, President Trump's personal attorney. This raid was part of an investigation into Cohen's business dealings and potential violations of campaign finance laws. source: nbcnews.com
  • 10 Apr Inn Din massacre: Myanmar soldiers convicted: On April 10, 2018, a court in Myanmar convicted several soldiers for their roles in the Inn Din massacre, where Rohingya Muslims were killed. This case highlighted ongoing human rights concerns in Myanmar and the treatment of ethnic minorities. source: bbc.com
  • 11 Apr Spanish Terrorism Trial: Spain's Audiencia Nacional sentenced ten Islamic extremists to prison terms ranging from 8 to 12 years for plotting terrorist attacks on Barcelona landmarks and planning to behead a hostage.
  • 12 Apr UK authorities investigate Skripal poisoning case: On April 12, 2018, UK authorities continued their investigation into the poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia, who were found unconscious in Salisbury, England, on March 4. source: bbc.com
  • 14 Apr Egyptian Court Upholds Muslim Brotherhood Sentences: The Court of Cassation in Egypt confirmed life sentences for three prominent Muslim Brotherhood leaders, including Mohamed Badie. Additionally, five-year terms were upheld for fourteen other Muslim Brotherhood leaders, further solidifying the legal crackdown on the organization.
  • 17 Apr Foreign Women Sentenced for ISIS Connections: Seven foreign women were sentenced in Iraq for links to the Islamic State. Three Azerbaijanis and one Kyrgyz were sentenced to death, while two Russian women and a French woman received life sentences.
  • 20 Apr Liberian warlord sentenced in US: On April 20, 2018, a former Liberian warlord, Mohammed Jabbateh, was sentenced to 30 years in prison in the United States for immigration fraud and lying about his past involvement in war crimes. His case highlighted issues of accountability for atrocities committed during Liberia's civil wars. source: bbc.com
  • 21 Apr Palestine seeks UN investigation into Gaza border violence: Following the escalation of violence on April 20, 2018, Palestinian authorities called for a United Nations investigation into the actions of Israeli forces during the Gaza border protests. The request aimed to address the use of live ammunition against unarmed protesters and the resulting fatalities. The UN Human Rights Council established an independent commission to investigate the events. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 23 Apr Press Freedom in Egypt: UNESCO awarded Egyptian photojournalist Mahmoud Ab Zeid the 2018 Guillermo Cano International Press Freedom Prize, a move criticized by Egyptian authorities. Zeid was facing potential death penalty, highlighting ongoing press freedom challenges in Egypt.
  • 24 Apr Yahoo! Data Breach Penalty: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission penalized Altaba for failing to promptly report a significant data breach that occurred in 2014.
  • 25 Apr Bangladeshi War Crimes Sentencing: Former National Security Intelligence Director General Wahidul Haque was sentenced by the Bangladeshi International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity during the 1971 Liberation War. The convictions relate to the deaths of 500-600 unarmed Bengalis and Santals in Rangpur.
  • 26 Apr Senate Judiciary Committee votes on Mueller investigation protection: On April 26, 2018, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted to advance legislation aimed at protecting Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. This move was seen as a response to concerns about potential interference. source: politico.com
  • 27 Apr Bill Cosby sexual assault conviction: Bill Cosby was convicted of sexual assault in a landmark case that highlighted issues of consent and sexual violence. The jury found him guilty of drugging and sexually assaulting Andrea Constand in 2004, leading to a sentence of three to ten years in prison. source: nytimes.com
  • 28 Apr Iranian Revolutionary Court Trial: The Iranian Revolutionary Court initiated a trial for eight alleged Islamic State members accused of involvement in suicide bombings and gun attacks in Tehran that resulted in 18 fatalities.
  • 01 May Ashley Judd sues Harvey Weinstein: On May 1, 2018, actress Ashley Judd filed a lawsuit against Harvey Weinstein, alleging sexual harassment and defamation. This lawsuit was part of the broader #MeToo movement, which aimed to address sexual misconduct in the entertainment industry. Judd's case highlighted the systemic issues of abuse and power dynamics in Hollywood. source: bbc.com
  • 02 May Mueller Considers Subpoena for Trump: Special Counsel Robert Mueller suggested the possibility of issuing a subpoena to obtain testimony from President Donald Trump as part of the ongoing investigation.
  • 05 May Egypt court rejects appeals in Port Said riot case: On May 5, 2018, an Egyptian court rejected appeals from 47 individuals convicted in connection with the 2012 Port Said stadium riot, upholding their sentences. The riot resulted in the deaths of 74 people and was one of the deadliest incidents in Egyptian football history. source: aljazeera.com
  • 06 May Major Human Trafficking Bust in Malaysia: Malaysian authorities conducted a significant operation against an international human trafficking ring, arresting sixteen individuals. The operation began with the seizure of the MV Etra, a modified tanker carrying 127 migrants from Sri Lanka, intended to be smuggled to Australia and New Zealand.
  • 08 May Colombia War Crimes Tribunal Investigation: Colombia's war crimes tribunal begins a comprehensive investigation into atrocities committed during the prolonged conflict that began in 1960, aiming to uncover and document human rights violations.
  • 09 May Neo-Nazi Conviction in Britain: Four neo-Nazis were convicted of attempting to incite racial hatred at Aston University in England through a sticker recruitment campaign for the National Action group. The organization has since been declared a terrorist group, underscoring ongoing challenges with far-right extremism.
  • 10 May UK Terrorism Trial: Safaa Boular, a teenager, was put on trial at the Old Bailey for planning terrorist acts, specifically an alleged plot to attack the British Museum in London after failing to travel to Syria.
  • 11 May Tragic Mass Murder-Suicide in Western Australia: A horrific incident occurred in Margaret River, Western Australia, where three adults and four children were found dead. Police suspected this was a murder-suicide, involving a family tragedy.
  • 15 May Varanasi Flyover Collapse: A tragic infrastructure failure occurred in Varanasi, India, where a flyover collapsed, resulting in at least 18 fatalities. This incident highlighted serious concerns about infrastructure safety and construction standards.
  • 16 May Kenya Passes Cyber Legislation: President Uhuru Kenyatta signed comprehensive legislation addressing digital misconduct, including bans on cyber-espionage, cyber-bullying, and publication of false information.
  • 17 May Michigan State University sexual abuse settlement: On May 17, 2018, Michigan State University agreed to a $500 million settlement with survivors of sexual abuse by former physician Larry Nassar. The settlement aimed to compensate the victims and address the university's role in enabling Nassar's abuse over decades. The case highlighted systemic failures within the institution and led to widespread reforms in handling sexual misconduct. source: npr.org
  • 19 May Saudi Arabia arrests women's rights activists: On May 19, 2018, Saudi authorities arrested several prominent women's rights activists, sparking international condemnation. The arrests were part of a broader crackdown on dissent in the kingdom. source: bbc.com
  • 21 May Catholic Archbishop Convicted of Covering Up Child Sexual Abuse: Philip Wilson, the Catholic Archbishop of Adelaide, Australia, was convicted of concealing child sexual abuse, highlighting ongoing accountability issues within the Catholic Church.
  • 23 May Social media blocking ruled unconstitutional: A court ruled that the blocking of social media platforms by the government is unconstitutional, emphasizing the importance of free speech and access to information in a democratic society. source: nytimes.com
  • 24 May Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 investigation update: On May 24, 2018, the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) released an update on the investigation into the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014. The JIT identified four individuals, including three Russians and one Ukrainian, as suspects in the incident, stating that they were part of a Russian military unit responsible for transporting the Buk missile system used in the attack. source: reuters.com
  • 26 May American Prisoner Released from Venezuela: Josh Holt, an American detained in Venezuela on accusations of stockpiling weapons and attempting to destabilize the government, was released and returned to the United States.
  • 28 May Joshua Boyle faces sexual assault charges: On May 28, 2018, Joshua Boyle was charged with multiple counts of sexual assault in Canada. The charges stemmed from incidents that allegedly occurred after his return from captivity in Afghanistan. source: cbc.ca
  • 29 May Arkady Babchenko Staged Assassination: A dramatic incident unfolded involving Russian journalist Arkady Babchenko, who was reportedly shot near his home in Kiev. In a surprising twist, the Ukrainian Security Service revealed that the assassination was staged as part of an operation to capture those planning to kill him.
  • 30 May Harvey Weinstein rape indictment: On May 30, 2018, Harvey Weinstein was indicted on charges of rape and sexual assault in New York. This indictment marked a significant moment in the #MeToo movement and discussions about sexual misconduct in Hollywood. source: nytimes.com
  • 01 Jun Burkina Faso Abolishes Death Penalty: Burkina Faso's National Assembly votes to abolish capital punishment, marking a significant human rights milestone for the West African nation.
  • 03 Jun Nigeria Prison Break: Approximately 200 prisoners escaped during a prison break at Minna Medium Security Prison. The incident resulted in one prison officer being killed, and seven prisoners were subsequently rearrested.
  • 04 Jun Supreme Court rules in Masterpiece Cakeshop case: On June 4, 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Masterpiece Cakeshop, allowing the bakery to refuse service for a same-sex wedding cake. The decision was based on free exercise rights, impacting LGBTQ+ rights and religious freedom debates. source: nytimes.com
  • 05 Jun Supreme Court sides with baker in gay couple cake case: On June 5, 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of a baker who refused to make a wedding cake for a same-sex couple, citing religious beliefs. This decision had implications for LGBTQ+ rights and religious freedom. source: nytimes.com
  • 07 Jun Baltimore Ex-Police Sergeant Sentenced for Corruption: Wayne Earl Jenkins, a former Baltimore police sergeant and head of a rogue police unit, is sentenced to 25 years in prison for robbery and racketeering.
  • 09 Jun Large Protest in Bucharest Against Judicial Abuses: A significant protest was organized in Bucharest, Romania by the Social Democratic Party, highlighting concerns about judicial system irregularities and drawing support from multiple political parties.
  • 10 Jun Baghdad election ballot box warehouse fire disrupts recount process: On June 10, 2018, a fire broke out in a warehouse in Baghdad containing ballot boxes from Iraq's parliamentary elections. The fire destroyed a significant number of ballots, leading to the suspension of the recount process and raising concerns about the integrity of the election results. source: aljazeera.com
  • 11 Jun Assam Police Arrest Officers in Lynching Case: In Assam, India, police arrested several officers in connection with a lynching case that drew national attention. The incident highlighted issues of mob violence and law enforcement accountability. source: bbc.com
  • 18 Jun Spanish Royal Corruption Case: Iñaki Urdangarin, brother-in-law of King Felipe VI of Spain, was sentenced to nearly six years in prison for his involvement in the Nóos corruption case, marking a significant moment in Spanish judicial history.
  • 20 Jun Terrorism Prevention: Tunisian Suspect Arrested: German authorities successfully arrested a Tunisian man suspected of attempting to create a ricin-based weapon, demonstrating proactive counterterrorism measures and international security cooperation.
  • 21 Jun Vatican Punishes Cardinal McCarrick: The Vatican took disciplinary action against Cardinal Theodore McCarrick over sexual abuse allegations, marking a significant step in addressing clergy misconduct within the Catholic Church.
  • 22 Jun Supreme Court issues landmark privacy ruling: On June 22, 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling on privacy rights. The decision addressed the extent to which law enforcement can access digital information without a warrant, setting a significant precedent for digital privacy. source: supremecourt.gov
  • 26 Jun Terrorism Investigation in France: French Police continued questioning ten suspected far-right terrorists arrested on Saturday for allegedly plotting to attack Muslims. A detention extension was granted late in the evening.
  • 27 Jun Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy announces retirement: Justice Anthony Kennedy announced his retirement from the U.S. Supreme Court, effective July 31, 2018. His departure opened the door for President Trump to appoint a second justice, potentially shifting the court's ideological balance. source: nytimes.com
  • 28 Jun Spanish Constitutional Crisis: The National Court confirmed the prosecution of Josep Lluís Trapero, Major of the Mossos d'Esquadra, and other regional police leaders for potential charges of sedition and criminal organization, further escalating tensions in the ongoing Spanish constitutional crisis.
  • 30 Jun Toronto Downtown Shooting: A violent shooting in downtown Toronto results in two fatalities and one injury, marking the 49th and 50th murders in the city for the year, signaling growing urban violence concerns.
  • 01 Jul Vermont legalizes recreational marijuana: Vermont became the first U.S. state to legalize recreational marijuana through legislation rather than a ballot initiative. The law allows adults to possess and cultivate small amounts of cannabis, reflecting changing attitudes towards marijuana use in the country. source: bbc.com
  • 06 Jul Corruption in Pakistan: Nawaz Sharif sentencing: On July 6, 2018, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was sentenced to ten years in prison by an anti-corruption court in Pakistan. The ruling was part of a broader crackdown on corruption in the country, which has seen several high-profile politicians face legal challenges. source: bbc.com
  • 08 Jul Amesbury Novichok Poisoning: A British woman tragically died after being exposed to the Novichok nerve agent in Amesbury, further escalating tensions surrounding the controversial nerve agent attack that had previously occurred in the United Kingdom.
  • 09 Jul Reuters Journalists Trial in Myanmar: A landmark press freedom case unfolded as two Reuters journalists were charged with obtaining state secrets while investigating mass graves in Inn Din, northern Rakhine State, highlighting ongoing press restrictions in Myanmar.
  • 10 Jul Trump Administration Family Separation Policy: The Trump Administration failed to meet a court-mandated deadline for reuniting young children with their families, citing logistical challenges in the controversial family separation policy at the US-Mexico border.
  • 11 Jul National Socialist Underground trial verdict announced: On July 11, 2018, a German court delivered its verdict in the trial of Beate Zschäpe, the last surviving member of the National Socialist Underground (NSU). The court found her guilty of murder and other charges related to the NSU's activities. source: bbc.com
  • 12 Jul Argentina seeks arrest of Iranian official: On July 12, 2018, Argentina issued an arrest warrant for an Iranian official in connection with the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires. This move was part of Argentina's ongoing efforts to seek justice for the victims. source: reuters.com
  • 13 Jul Johnson & Johnson Talc Cancer Case: A US jury ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay a record $4.7 billion in damages in a talc cancer lawsuit, marking a significant legal challenge for the pharmaceutical and consumer goods company.
  • 14 Jul Russian agent Maria Butina arrested: On July 14, 2018, Maria Butina, a Russian national, was arrested in the United States on charges of acting as an unregistered foreign agent. She was accused of attempting to infiltrate American political organizations to promote Russian interests. source: justice.gov
  • 16 Jul Maria Butina arrested on charges of acting as an unregistered foreign agent: Maria Butina, a Russian national, was arrested in Washington, D.C., on charges of conspiring to act as an agent of the Russian government without prior notification to the Attorney General. She was accused of attempting to infiltrate American political organizations, including the National Rifle Association, to influence U.S. policy in favor of Russia. source: cnbc.com
  • 17 Jul Iran files lawsuit against the U.S. at the International Court of Justice: Iran initiated legal proceedings against the United States at the International Court of Justice, challenging the reinstatement of sanctions imposed by the U.S. following its withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal. source: cnbc.com
  • 18 Jul Terrorism convictions in the United Kingdom: The United Kingdom convicted several individuals on terrorism charges, reflecting ongoing concerns about domestic security and counterterrorism efforts. source: cnbc.com
  • 19 Jul Peru's Supreme Court Head Resigns: The head of Peru's Supreme Court resigns following bribery allegations, underscoring ongoing challenges with judicial corruption in the region.
  • 20 Jul Park Geun-hye sentenced for corruption: On July 20, 2018, former South Korean President Park Geun-hye was sentenced to life imprisonment after being convicted on multiple charges, including bribery and abuse of power. The court found that she had colluded with a close confidante to extort money from businesses and had abused her position to influence government decisions. source: bbc.com
  • 21 Jul Australian nun deported from Philippines: On July 21, 2018, Australian nun Patricia Fox was deported from the Philippines after her missionary visa was revoked. The Philippine government accused Fox of engaging in political activities, which violated the terms of her visa. Fox and her supporters argued that the deportation was politically motivated. source: abc.net.au
  • 23 Jul Toronto Danforth Shooting Investigation: Toronto police identified the gunman involved in a fatal shooting, with investigators still working to determine the motive. The shooter's family alleged that he suffered from severe mental illness.
  • 25 Jul Somalia's First Female Genital Mutilation Prosecution: Somalia's attorney general announced the country's first prosecution of female genital mutilation following the death of a 10-year-old girl, marking a critical moment in the fight against harmful traditional practices.
  • 26 Jul Immigrant Children Separation Crisis: Over 700 immigrant children remained separated from their parents as a court-imposed deadline for reunification passed, highlighting ongoing immigration and family separation issues in the United States.
  • 28 Jul Egypt sentences 75 to death over protests: On July 28, 2018, an Egyptian court sentenced 75 people to death for their involvement in protests that took place in 2013. The convictions were part of a mass trial that drew international criticism for its fairness and transparency. source: aljazeera.com
  • 31 Jul Paul Manafort Criminal Trial Begins: Paul Manafort, former campaign chairman for President Donald Trump, appeared in court to face trial on 18 bank and fraud charges brought by Special Counsel Robert Mueller. The trial was a significant moment in the ongoing investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election.
  • 04 Aug NFL Player Legal Sentencing: Oakland Raiders cornerback Daryl Worley was sentenced to three days in imprisonment and two years probation after pleading guilty to resisting arrest and firearms charges in April.
  • 07 Aug Horrific child abuse case in Germany: On August 7, 2018, a shocking child abuse case in Germany came to light, involving multiple victims and severe neglect. The case drew national attention and sparked discussions about child protection laws and the responsibilities of social services. Authorities launched investigations to address the systemic failures that allowed such abuse to occur. source: bbc.com
  • 08 Aug US Representative Chris Collins insider trading charges: On August 8, 2018, U.S. Representative Chris Collins was indicted on charges of insider trading. The allegations involved sharing non-public information about a biotechnology company with his son. This case highlighted issues of ethics and accountability in Congress, leading to calls for reforms in insider trading laws. source: nytimes.com
  • 09 Aug Argentina Rejects Abortion Legalization: The Argentine Senate rejected a bill to legalize abortion, maintaining the country's restrictive stance on reproductive rights and sparking continued national debate.
  • 10 Aug Landmark Monsanto Glyphosate Cancer Lawsuit: In a significant legal decision, a California jury awarded $289 million to a plaintiff who claimed that Monsanto's glyphosate-containing weed killer caused his terminal cancer, marking a pivotal moment in product liability litigation.
  • 11 Aug First Prosecution Under Russian LGBT Propaganda Law: According to the Russian LGBT Network, a 16-year-old became the first person charged under Russia's controversial homosexual propaganda law, raising international human rights concerns.
  • 14 Aug Ponte Morandi bridge collapse in Genoa, Italy: On August 14, 2018, the Ponte Morandi bridge in Genoa, Italy, collapsed, leading to the deaths of at least 43 people. The incident raised serious questions about infrastructure safety and maintenance standards in Italy. source: bbc.com
  • 17 Aug Turkey Rejects Andrew Brunson's Appeal: A high court in Izmir, Turkey, rejected the appeal for release by Andrew Brunson, an American pastor whose detention had been a source of significant diplomatic tension between the United States and Turkey.
  • 20 Aug Asia Argento denies sexual assault allegations from Jimmy Bennett: On August 20, 2018, actress Asia Argento, a prominent figure in the #MeToo movement, denied allegations of sexually assaulting actor Jimmy Bennett in 2013, when he was 17. Argento stated that her late partner, Anthony Bourdain, insisted on paying Bennett $380,000 to avoid negative publicity. source: time.com
  • 22 Aug Saudi Arabia Seeks Death Penalty for Activists: Saudi Arabian prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for six activists accused of inciting anti-government protests and morally supporting civil unrest, raising significant human rights concerns.
  • 24 Aug U.S. Court Investigates Venezuelan Corruption: A United States court case obtains new evidence and a guilty plea related to corruption and money laundering investigations, potentially implicating individuals connected to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
  • 25 Aug European Migration Crisis Developments: In the ongoing European migration crisis, thirteen people with serious illnesses were removed from the Diciotti ship in Catania, Italy. Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini was placed under investigation for potential illegal detention and kidnapping. Albania agreed to accept 20 migrants, and Ireland offered to take 25.
  • 28 Aug Police Officer Convicted of Murder: Roy Oliver, a former Texas police officer, is found guilty of murdering Jordan Edwards, a 15-year-old Mesquite High School student.
  • 30 Aug Canadian Court Blocks Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion: Canadian courts overturned Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's decision to expand the Trans Mountain Pipeline, representing a significant legal and environmental setback.
  • 31 Aug Australian Catholic Church resists child abuse reporting recommendation: On August 31, 2018, the Australian Catholic Church announced it would not implement a recommendation to report all child sexual abuse allegations to police, as suggested by a national inquiry. source: theguardian.com
  • 01 Sep DACA Program Continues: A federal judge declined to shut down the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, allowing it to continue and providing temporary relief for undocumented immigrants who arrived in the US as children.
  • 03 Sep Reuters Journalists Sentenced in Myanmar: On September 3, 2018, two Reuters journalists were sentenced to seven years in prison in Myanmar for violating the Official Secrets Act. The case drew international condemnation and raised concerns about press freedom in the country. source: bbc.com
  • 07 Sep Papadopoulos sentenced in Mueller investigation: On September 7, 2018, George Papadopoulos was sentenced to 14 days in prison as part of the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. His case was one of the first to result in a sentence from the investigation. source: nytimes.com
  • 08 Sep Iran executes three Kurdish political prisoners: On September 8, 2018, Iran executed three Kurdish political prisoners—Ramin Hossein-Panahi, Zanyar Moradi, and Loghman Moradi—in Gohardasht Prison, Karaj. The executions were carried out despite international appeals for clemency. The men had been detained since 2009 and 2017, respectively, and were accused of waging war against God. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, condemned the executions, citing allegations of torture and unfair trials. source: reuters.com
  • 13 Sep European Court Ruling on UK Mass Surveillance: The European Court of Human Rights ruled that the United Kingdom violated the European Convention on Human Rights through mass surveillance practices, as originally exposed by American whistleblower Edward Snowden.
  • 14 Sep Venezuelan Corruption Charges in Andorra: A judge in Andorra formally charged 28 former Venezuelan officials with corruption, highlighting ongoing international scrutiny of Venezuela's political and economic governance.
  • 16 Sep Mass Prison Escape in Myanmar: Forty-one inmates escaped Hpa-an Township's main prison in Kayin State, Myanmar by hijacking a garbage truck and driving through prison gates. Eleven escapees were quickly recaptured, while 30 remained at large.
  • 17 Sep Kavanaugh Supreme Court nomination controversy: The nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court faced significant controversy as allegations of sexual misconduct emerged. This led to intense scrutiny and public debate regarding his confirmation process. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 18 Sep South Africa Legalizes Recreational Cannabis: South Africa legalized recreational cannabis use, marking a significant shift in the country's drug policy and potentially setting a precedent for other nations.
  • 19 Sep Arrest warrant for 3D-printed gun activist: On September 19, 2018, an arrest warrant was issued for Cody Wilson, the founder of Defense Distributed, a company that developed 3D-printed gun blueprints. Wilson was charged with sexual assault in Texas, leading to the seizure of his passport and the cancellation of his bond. The case raised significant legal and ethical questions regarding the distribution of 3D-printed firearms. source: reuters.com
  • 25 Sep Vietnamese Activist Sentenced: Doan Khanh Vinh Quang, a 42-year-old activist, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for posting critical Facebook comments about the Communist Party of Vietnam, highlighting ongoing restrictions on free speech.
  • 26 Sep Brett Kavanaugh Supreme Court nomination controversy: On September 26, 2018, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing to discuss allegations of sexual assault against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, leading to intense political debate and public scrutiny. source: nytimes.com
  • 27 Sep India strikes down adultery law as unconstitutional: On September 27, 2018, India's Supreme Court declared the country's adultery law unconstitutional, stating it was discriminatory against women. This landmark ruling was seen as a significant step towards gender equality in India. source: bbc.com
  • 29 Sep FBI Investigates Kavanaugh Allegations: The FBI initiated investigations into sexual misconduct allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, reaching out to Deborah Ramirez, the second woman to publicly accuse him of inappropriate behavior.
  • 03 Oct Federal Court Blocks Trump's Immigration Policy: A federal court in California prevented President Trump from ending the Temporary Protected Status program, which allows immigrants from four countries to reside and work in the United States.
  • 04 Oct Russian GRU Intelligence Hacking Indictment: On October 4, 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice indicted seven Russian military intelligence officers from the GRU for cybercrimes, including hacking anti-doping agencies and other organizations. source: justice.gov
  • 07 Oct Murder of investigative journalist in Bulgaria: On October 7, 2018, the body of investigative journalist Viktoria Marinova was found in Bulgaria. Her murder raised concerns about press freedom and safety for journalists in the country. source: bbc.com
  • 09 Oct Former Guatemalan VP Sentenced for Fraud: Roxana Baldetti, former Vice President of Guatemala, was sentenced for fraud related to a Lake Amatitlan cleaning system. She continues to face multiple lawsuits and potential extradition to the United States.
  • 11 Oct Keiko Fujimori Charged with Campaign Finance Violations: Keiko Fujimori, prominent opposition leader in Peru's Congress and daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, was charged with illegal campaign financing connected to the Odebrecht corruption scandal, marking a significant moment in Peru's ongoing political integrity investigations.
  • 12 Oct Jamal Khashoggi Murder Investigation: On October 12, 2018, Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was reported missing after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Subsequent investigations revealed he was murdered inside the consulate, leading to international condemnation and strained diplomatic relations. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 13 Oct Infant Remains Discovered in Detroit: On October 13, 2018, authorities in Detroit discovered the remains of an infant in a vacant house, leading to an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. source: detroitnews.com
  • 14 Oct Migrant Truck Crash in Turkey: On October 14, 2018, a truck carrying migrants crashed in Turkey, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident highlighted the ongoing challenges related to migrant transportation in the region. source: aljazeera.com
  • 15 Oct Hungary's Controversial Homelessness Law: Hungary implemented a ban on rough sleeping in public places, drawing international criticism. The Hungarian government defended the law as being in the 'interests of society', sparking debates about human rights and social policy.
  • 20 Oct Disturbing Discovery at Detroit Funeral Home: Over 60 remains of infants and fetuses were discovered at a Detroit funeral home, raising serious questions about potential medical malpractice and ethical violations.
  • 23 Oct Rome Metro Escalator Collapse: An escalator at the Repubblica – Teatro dell'Opera metro station in Rome, Italy, suddenly collapsed, resulting in at least 20 injuries. The incident primarily affected a group of Russian football team CSKA fans who were using the escalator at the time.
  • 24 Oct US Mail Bombing Attempts: The United States Secret Service intercepted suspicious packages containing potential explosive devices targeting high-profile political figures, including former President Barack Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and former CIA director John O. Brennan. CNN's New York studios were evacuated during the incident, highlighting ongoing domestic security threats.
  • 25 Oct Rodrigo Rato Sentenced for Embezzlement: Rodrigo Rato, former IMF Director and ex-Deputy Prime Minister of Spain, was sentenced to 4.5 years in prison for embezzlement, marking a significant legal action against a high-profile political figure.
  • 26 Oct 2018 Freiburg Gang Rape: Eight men were arrested by German authorities following a gang rape in Freiburg on 14 October 2018. Police continued to investigate and search for additional suspects.
  • 30 Oct Niels Högel Serial Killer Trial: On October 30, 2018, the trial of Niels Högel, a former German nurse accused of murdering at least 100 patients, commenced at the Landgericht Oldenburg. The trial was notable for its scale, involving 120 joint plaintiffs and taking place in a large venue to accommodate the high number of participants. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 31 Oct Asia Bibi blasphemy case overturned: On October 31, 2018, Pakistan's Supreme Court overturned the blasphemy conviction of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman sentenced to death. The ruling sparked both celebrations and protests across the country, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding blasphemy laws in Pakistan. source: bbc.com
  • 01 Nov Tennessee Execution of Edmund Zagorski: Edmund Zagorski was executed by the state of Tennessee, marking the first electrocution in the state since 2007. Zagorski, convicted of murdering John Dotson and Jimmy Porter in April 1983, notably requested electrocution as his method of execution.
  • 03 Nov Colten Treu charged with vehicular homicide: On November 3, 2018, Colten R. Treu, 21, was arrested in Chippewa County, Wisconsin, for a fatal hit-and-run crash in Lake Hallie. The incident resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including two children aged 9 and 10. Treu was charged with multiple counts, including homicide by negligent use of a motor vehicle and hit-and-run. He admitted to inhaling chemical vapors prior to the accident. source: weau.com
  • 04 Nov Bahrain Sentences Opposition Leader to Life in Prison: On November 4, 2018, Bahrain's highest court sentenced opposition leader Sheikh Ali Salman to life in prison on charges of espionage and collaborating with foreign powers. The ruling was widely criticized by human rights organizations as politically motivated. source: aljazeera.com
  • 05 Nov Me Too Movement: South Korean Lawsuit: On November 5, 2018, a prominent South Korean actress filed a lawsuit against a former television host, alleging sexual harassment. The case drew significant attention and was seen as a significant moment in the country's #MeToo movement. source: reuters.com
  • 07 Nov Asia Bibi Blasphemy Case Resolution: Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was sentenced to death in 2010 on blasphemy charges, was acquitted. Following her release, she reportedly boarded a plane, with her destination initially unknown and multiple countries offering asylum.
  • 08 Nov Mass Grave Discovery in Ethiopia: Ethiopian authorities discovered a mass grave containing 200 bodies near the border of Somali and Oromia regions. The discovery is part of an investigation into alleged atrocities committed under the former regional president Abdi Mohammed.
  • 09 Nov Imelda Marcos convicted of graft: On November 9, 2018, former Philippine First Lady Imelda Marcos was convicted of graft by a Philippine court. The ruling was part of a long-standing legal battle over her alleged misuse of public funds during her husband's regime. source: bbc.com
  • 12 Nov Amnesty International revokes Aung San Suu Kyi's award: On November 12, 2018, Amnesty International announced the revocation of its Ambassador of Conscience Award given to Aung San Suu Kyi due to her failure to address the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar. The decision reflected growing discontent with her leadership and the humanitarian issues facing the Rohingya population. This move highlighted the organization's commitment to human rights advocacy. source: bbc.com
  • 13 Nov CNN Sues Trump Administration Over Press Pass: CNN filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging that the revocation of Jim Acosta's White House press pass violated First and Fifth Amendment rights. Multiple media organizations filed supporting amicus briefs.
  • 14 Nov PG&E Lawsuit over Camp Fire: In the aftermath of the Camp Fire, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) faced lawsuits alleging that its equipment caused the wildfire. The company filed for bankruptcy in January 2019, citing expected wildfire liabilities of $30 billion. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 19 Nov Carlos Ghosn arrested for financial misconduct: On November 19, 2018, Carlos Ghosn, the CEO of Nissan and Renault, was arrested in Japan on charges of financial misconduct, including underreporting his income and misusing company assets. The arrest led to his removal from leadership positions and sparked a major corporate scandal. source: bbc.com
  • 20 Nov Mississippi Abortion Ban Overturned: A US federal judge overturned Mississippi's 15-week abortion ban, ruling that it violated women's constitutional rights and marking a significant moment in reproductive rights litigation.
  • 21 Nov Guatemalan civil war justice: A Guatemalan court sentenced a former military officer for crimes against humanity during the civil war. This ruling was part of ongoing efforts to seek justice for victims of the conflict that lasted from 1960 to 1996. source: bbc.com
  • 22 Nov South Korean Pastor Convicted of Sexual Harassment: Lee Jaerock, a prominent pastor leading Manmin Central Church, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for 42 counts of sexual harassment and assault against eight congregation members. The court noted that victims were unable to resist due to their absolute faith in the accused.
  • 01 Dec Child Sexual Exploitation Revealed in Oulu, Finland: The Oulu Police publicly disclosed the first known incident of a significant child sexual exploitation case, marking a serious social and legal concern in Finland. source: Wikipedia (day-month pages)
  • 02 Dec Israeli police recommend charges against Netanyahu: On December 2, 2018, Israeli police recommended indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on corruption charges. This recommendation followed a lengthy investigation into allegations of bribery and fraud, intensifying political tensions in Israel. source: bbc.com
  • 04 Dec Major Mafia Clan Arrest in Italy: Italian law enforcement conducted a significant operation in Palermo province, arresting the alleged boss of a Cosa Nostra mafia clan along with 45 suspected accomplices, charging them with aggravated extortion.
  • 07 Dec Deadly Bank Robbery in Brazil: A violent armed confrontation occurred in Milagres, Ceara, Brazil, resulting in eleven fatalities, including five hostages, during an attempted bank robbery by armed criminals.
  • 09 Dec Body of Grace Millane found in New Zealand: On December 9, 2018, the body of British backpacker Grace Millane was discovered in the Waitākere Ranges near Auckland, New Zealand. Millane had been missing since December 1, 2018, and a 26-year-old man was charged with her murder. source: abc.net.au
  • 10 Dec Global Migration Compact: The non-binding Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration was adopted in Marrakech, Morocco, with 164 countries participating, representing a significant international effort to address global migration challenges.
  • 11 Dec Meng Wanzhou detention and diplomatic tensions: On December 11, 2018, Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou was detained in Canada at the request of the United States, leading to diplomatic tensions between the U.S., China, and Canada over allegations of violating U.S. sanctions on Iran. source: bbc.com
  • 12 Dec Michael Cohen sentenced to prison for illegal payments: On December 12, 2018, Michael Cohen, former personal attorney to U.S. President Donald Trump, was sentenced to three years in prison for campaign finance violations, tax evasion, and lying to Congress. source: bbc.com
  • 15 Dec Affordable Care Act Partially Ruled Unconstitutional: A Texas federal judge ruled part of the Affordable Care Act ('Obamacare') unconstitutional, specifically targeting the individual mandate requiring health insurance purchase or penalty payment.
  • 17 Dec Poland resolves Supreme Court judge dispute: The Polish government reached a compromise regarding the controversial retirement age for Supreme Court judges, which had led to tensions with the European Union. The resolution aimed to restore judicial independence and comply with EU regulations. source: euronews.com
  • 18 Dec U.S. bans bump stocks: The U.S. government announced a ban on bump stocks, devices that allow semi-automatic weapons to fire more rapidly. This decision followed the Las Vegas shooting in 2017 and aimed to enhance gun control measures. source: nytimes.com
  • 19 Dec Nisour Square massacre trial verdict: A U.S. court delivered a verdict in the trial related to the Nisour Square massacre, where Blackwater contractors killed 17 Iraqi civilians in 2007. The case highlighted issues of accountability for private military contractors. source: nytimes.com
  • 21 Dec First Step Act Signed into Law: On December 21, 2018, President Trump signed the First Step Act into law, a bipartisan criminal justice reform bill aimed at reducing recidivism and reforming sentencing laws. source: cnbc.com
  • 24 Dec Nawaz Sharif Corruption Sentencing: Nawaz Sharif, former Prime Minister of Pakistan, was found guilty of corruption and sentenced to imprisonment. This event marked a significant moment in Pakistan's ongoing efforts to combat political corruption and hold high-profile politicians accountable.
  • 27 Dec Violent Robbery at Vienna Church: A serious robbery occurred at a church in Vienna, where five Christian monks were tied up and left with significant injuries, highlighting concerns about religious institution security.
  • 28 Dec Leicester shop explosion murder conviction: On December 28, 2018, a jury in Leicester, UK, convicted Aram Kurd, Arkan Ali, and Hawkar Hassan of murder following a gas explosion at a shop in Leicester that killed five people in February 2018. The explosion was found to have been caused by a deliberate act, and the three men were sentenced to life imprisonment. source: bbc.com
  • 29 Dec St. Charles, Missouri Shooting Incident: A violent incident in St. Charles, Missouri resulted in four fatalities and one stabbing survivor. A suspect was quickly apprehended by law enforcement.
  • 30 Dec Suspicious Individual Detained at Sagrada Familia: A French national was taken into custody after entering the iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona with a bag containing ammunition. Catalan police did not consider the incident to be terrorism-related.