Person shot by police near Republican National Convention venue

Police have reportedly shot and killed a person near 14th and Vliet streets in Milwaukee, which is about 1.2 miles from Fiserv Forum, the main Republican National Convention venue.

There is a large police presence, including an ambulance at the scene, including the Secret Service.

Witnesses told Milwaukee sister station WISN that two men were fighting in King Park, and one of them pulled a knife out. The witnesses said the men were startled when so many officers responded. Witnesses say the man with the knife was fired on by numerous officers. This has not yet been confirmed by police.

The officers involved in the shooting are not from the Milwaukee Police Department, but are from Columbus, Ohio.

A statement from the Columbus Fraternal Order of Police said no officers were injured.

Police from 63 departments in 24 states and Washington, D.C., along with 44 Wisconsin agencies are in Milwaukee this week for the Republican National Convention.

Dallas officer accused of posting ‘aim better’ online after Trump assassination attempt

Following an assassination attempt on former U.S. President Donald Trump, a Dallas police sergeant has been placed on administrative leave after being accused of posting “aim better” on social media over the weekend.

The Dallas Police Department issued a news release stating they received an internal complaint on Saturday, July 13, regarding Sgt. Arturo Martinez’s alleged comment on a social media platform.

The post was believed to have been related to the shooting at Trump’s campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, which was an incident that wounded Trump and two spectators and resulted in two deaths, including the shooter.

As a result of the allegations, Martinez was placed on leave pending the outcome of an internal affairs administrative investigation.

According to The Dallas Morning News, Martinez has been with the Dallas Police Department since 2010 and is assigned to the robbery unit. He’s listed online as secretary of the Dallas National Latino Law Enforcement Organization, one of the department’s largest officer associations.

Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia released a statement following Martinez’s leave on Monday.

“When I received the notification regarding the comment posted, disappointed would be an understatement. If, in fact, true, the comment made has no place in our society and certainly no place in law enforcement. I was appalled at what transpired on Saturday in Pennsylvania. The violence was unacceptable and has no place in our country. We are grateful former President Trump was not seriously injured. Our hearts are with those injured on Saturday and with the family and friends of Corey Comperatore, who tragically lost his life. The comments made, if confirmed, certainly do not reflect the professionalism and dedication of the men and women of the Dallas Police Department.” – Chief Garcia

Federal officials said Trump was only minutes into his speech at the rally when the alleged shooter, Thomas Matthews Crooks, is believed to have opened fire from an elevated position outside the rally venue. As shots rang out, the presumptive Republican nominee was grazed in his right ear and whisked off the stage by Secret Service agents after they fatally shot Crooks.

Former president Trump announces JD Vance as vice president pick

Donald Trump says Ohio Sen. JD Vance will be his vice presidential pick.

He says on his Truth Social Network that, “After lengthy deliberation and thought, and considering the tremendous talents of many others, I have decided that the person best suited to assume the position of Vice President of the United States is Senator J.D. Vance of the Great State of Ohio.”

Shooter seen by some attendees at least one minute before Trump was shot

New video shows some attendees at the Trump rally noticed the gunman on the roof at least one minute before the shooting. The video shows what appears to be at least one law enforcement officer walking around the building. A spokesman for the United States Secret Service told CNN the agency did not personally sweep the building where an attempted assassin shot former President Donald Trump, but instead leaned on local law enforcement to conduct security at that location.

Maga Judge dismisses classified documents case against Donald Trump

Donald Trump’s federal classified documents case was dismissed by U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon on Monday, July 15. Cannon, who was nominated to the bench by Trump in 2020, stalled his case for several months before ultimately tossing it.

In a 93-page ruling, District Judge Aileen Cannon said the appointment of special counsel Jack Smith violated the Constitution. She did not rule on whether Trump’s alleged mishandling of classified documents was proper or not.

“In the end, it seems the Executive’s growing comfort in appointing ‘regulatory’ special counsels in the more recent era has followed an ad hoc pattern with little judicial scrutiny,” Cannon wrote.

The ruling by Cannon, a judge Trump appointed in 2020, comes on the first day of the Republican National Convention and as the nation reels from the failed attempt on Trump’s life over the weekend. Even though a trial before the presidential election was considered highly unlikely, many legal experts had viewed the classified documents case as the strongest one of the four cases that were pending against the former president.

Trump on Truth Social said the dismissal “should be just the first step” as he called for the other cases facing him also to be dismissed, claiming that the charges were “political attacks.”

Baltimore mayor Scott voices support for President Biden

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott is joining Democratic mayors across the country to show support for President Joe Biden.

“I fortunately get to be with the president probably more than most mayors and I have not been concerned,” Scott said during a press conference on Wednesday. “I am concerned that we are not having a conversation that we should be having. His opponent is a convicted felon. His opponent wants to take away further take away women’s rights. His opponent… wants to be a dictator. His opponent won’t acknowledge the results of an election. His opponent wants to turn back this country into the 1960s or before. That’s what we should be talking about here.”

Maryland Rep. Kweisi Mfume also issued support for Biden.

President Biden holds news conference as candidacy faces more scrutiny

President Biden took questions from reporters for about an hour in a news conference that showcased his strong command of foreign policy but also included the kind of verbal stumbles that have stoked concerns from members of his party about his fitness to continue his campaign. The most notable flub was calling Vice President Harris “Vice President Trump” in the session’s opening minutes. Moments after the news conference ended, Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.) issued a statement calling on Biden to “step away” from the race and “make way for a new generation of leaders,” joining a growing list of lawmakers who have called for Biden to step aside.

Fireworks: 2024 July Fourth fireworks displays across Baltimore metro

Happy Independence Day! Here’s our list of July Fourth fireworks displays planned across the Baltimore area.

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Annapolis:

– Parade, 6:30 p.m.

– Fireworks, 9:15 p.m.

Glen Burnie (July 3)

– Sawmill Creek Park, 9 p.m.

BALTIMORE CITY FIREWORKS:

The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore kicks off celebrations with a 3 p.m. picnic on July 4 at West Shore Park that lasts through 9 p.m.

Then, at 6 p.m., DJ C. James plays music at the Amphitheater, while Avenue 66, a 10-piece variety cover band, will take the stage at 7 p.m.

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will play a concert at Rash Field around 8 p.m., followed by the fireworks and drone show around 9:30 p.m.

A fireworks show is also planned for 9:30 p.m. at Middle Branch Park as part of the Cherry Hill Arts and Music Waterfront Festival.

BALTIMORE COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Catonsville:

– Parade, Frederick Road, 3 p.m.

– Fireworks, Catonsville High School, 9:15 p.m.

Dundalk:

– Parade, 8:15 a.m.

– Fireworks, Grange Elementary Schools, 9:30 p.m.

Fullerton:

– Fullerton Park, 9:15 p.m.

Hereford:

– Hereford High School, 7:30 p.m. festival, fireworks at dusk

Towson:

– Parade, 10:30 a.m.

– Fireworks, Loch Raven Academy, 9 p.m.

CARROLL COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Taneytown (July 3):

– Taneytown Memorial Park, 9:30 p.m.

CECIL COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Charlestown (July 3):

– Avalon Park & Stage, dusk

Chesapeake City (July 5):

– Pell Gardens, dusk

HARFORD COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Aberdeen:

– Ripken Stadium, 9 p.m.

Havre de Grace (July 6):

– Parade, 2 p.m.

– Fireworks, 9:15 p.m.

HOWARD COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Columbia:

– Columbia Lakefront, 9:10 p.m.

KENT COUNTY FIREWORKS

Chestertown:

– Wilmer Park, 9:15 p.m.

Rock Hall:

– Parade, 10 a.m. on July 4, from the lagoon

– Harbor, 9 p.m. on July 3

QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY FIREWORKS:

Chester:

– Chesapeake Heritage and Visitors Center, 9:15 p.m.

Fireworks law in Maryland:

Maryland Law:
It is illegal to cross state lines and import fireworks for backyard celebrations. Fines may be levied of up to $250 for each firework device. Possession or use of explosive fireworks or large firecrackers such as M-100s or “Quarter-sticks” can carry a felony charge, large fines and time in prison.

For your safety, and that of your guests, fire officials urge Marylanders to keep it safe and only use legal fireworks this season. Leave the fireworks displays to professionals and enjoy one of the many displays in the area.

Code Red Extreme Heat Alert Declared for Thursday, July 4th through Saturday, July 6th

Residents Urged to Stay Safe and Cool Ahead of the 4th of July Holiday Weekend

BALTIMORE, MD (Wednesday, July 3, 2024) — With temperatures expected to rise in the Baltimore region and the heat index forecasted to reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit for the next few days, the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health Dr. Ihuoma Emenuga has declared a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert for Thursday, July 4th through Saturday, July 6th. The heat index is a measure of air temperature and relative humidity and indicates how hot it feels to the human body.

“As we prepare to enjoy the 4th of July holiday, we should prioritize our safety while having fun. Amidst the extreme heat, residents should stay hydrated, remain indoors with a working air conditioner or fan, and be sure to check on vulnerable neighbors,” said Commissioner of Health Dr. Ihuoma Emenuga. “Extreme heat is dangerous to older adults, children, and those with chronic health conditions. Together, let’s celebrate responsibly and safely, by staying cool and hydrated this holiday weekend.”

The Health Commissioner may declare a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert during periods of heat that are severe enough to present a substantial threat to life or health risks. Once a Code Red Extreme Heat declaration is made, activities are undertaken to encourage safety. When a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert is not declared, it is important to take precautions on warmer days.

The following Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services (MOHS) sites will serve as cooling centers (days and hours vary by location):

  • My Sisters Place Women’s Center (women and children only) 
    17 W. Franklin St. | Thurs., Fri., and Sat., 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.  
  • Weinberg Housing & Resource Center (WHRC) 
    620 Fallsway | Thurs., Fri., and Sat., 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 
  • Franciscan Center | 101 W. 23rd St. | Fri., 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  
  • Beans & Bread | 400 S. Bond St. | Fri., 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. 

 *On Thursday, July 4th, Beans & Bread’s indoor facilities will be closed, but will be serving water outside.  

The following Baltimore City Health Department’s Division of Aging and Community Support sites will serve as cooling centers on Friday, July 5th from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.  

  • Waxter Center for Senior Citizens | 1000 Cathedral St. (410) 396-1324 
  • Oliver Senior Center | 1700 N Gay St. (410) 396-3861 
  • Zeta Center for Healthy & Active Aging | 4501 Reisterstown Rd. (410) 396-3535 
  • Hatton Senior Center | 2825 Fait Ave. (410) 396-9025 

The following Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) sites will serve as cooling centers on Friday, July 5th from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.: 

  • Cherry Hill Homes | 2700 Spelman Road 
  • Brooklyn Homes | 4140 10th Street 

ShopRite Howard Park (4601 Liberty Heights Ave.) will serve as a community cooling center during their regular hours Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Residents seeking relief from the heat can also visit open Pratt Library locations.  

During the Code Red Extreme Heat season, the Baltimore City Health Department recommends that City residents:

  • Drink plenty of water
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine
  • Reduce outside activities
  • Stay inside during the hottest time of day (11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
  • Seek relief from the heat in air-conditioned locations
  • Check on older adults and the sick in your community who may need help in the heat
  • Never leave children alone in closed vehicles, even for short periods of time
  • Ensure that babies are sleeping safely. The risk for sleep-related infant death increases when babies overheat
    • People should place their infants alone, on their back, in a crib, and with no blankets, pillows, or sheets (a flat sheet covering the crib mattress is fine)
    • No head coverings
    • Co-sleeping (sharing a sleeping surface with a caregiver or another child) is especially dangerous

Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Seek medical help immediately if these symptoms occur:

  • Confusion
  • Nausea
  • Lightheadedness
  • High body temperature with cool and clammy skin
  • Hot, dry, flushed skin
  • Rapid or slowed heartbeat

To keep pets safe, BCHD also recommends:

  • Never leave your pets in a parked car. Keep them safe and leave them at home. Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise extremely quickly. Even on a 70-degree day, the inside of a car can rise to a deadly 110 degrees
  • Provide ample shade and water. Anytime your pet is outside, make sure he or she has protection from heat and sun and plenty of fresh, cold water
  • Limit exercise on hot days. On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet’s paws, so walk your dog on grass if possible
  • Watch for signs of heatstroke. These include heavy panting, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, vomiting, unable to get up, and a deep red or purple tongue. If you see signs of heatstroke, take your pet to a veterinarian immediately

City residents who want cooling center information on Code Red Extreme Heat Alert days can call 311. Individuals having a heat-related medical emergency or who are experiencing signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should call 911.

For more information on declared Code Red Extreme Heat Alert days, visit the Baltimore City Health Department’s website and on social media Facebook @BaltimoreHealth and Instagram @Bmore_healthy. Additional information may also be found via the Baltimore City 311 line, and with local news media.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sued again over more alleged sex trafficking

Diddy has been hit with ANOTHER lawsuit! This time a former porn star accuses the now disgraced music mogul of forcing her to have sex at his parties or blackballing her if she didn’t comply.

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According to TMZ, Adria English, who goes by the porn-star name Omunique, says she met Diddy in 2004. She was auditioning for a Sean John modeling gig at the time. But she says it immediately got freaky asf! She says Diddy wanted oral sex from her boyfriend and another model in order for her to get a job.

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The boyfriend refused but she ended up getting the job after agreeing that she would be Diddy’s go-go dancer. She says Diddy used her go-go dancing as a way that force her into having sex with his friends. One of those friends was Jacob Arabov, known as “Jacob the Jeweler” in hip hop.

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She even took a photo with Jacob after the alleged assault. She says Diddy never kept his promise to help her career. She’s suing Diddy, Bad Boy, Tamiko Thomas (who allegedly helped organize the alleged sex trafficking,) “Jacob the Jeweler” and others and seeking unspecified damages.