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The next phase of Amazon HQ2 includes three office towers, retail space and the 'Helix.'
ARLINGTON, Va. — The next phase of Amazon HQ2 is closer to becoming a reality in Arlington.
The Arlington County Board is set to review and vote on the plans for PenPlace on Saturday. The tech giant introduced the project in February 2021, more than two years after it announced building the second headquarters in Crystal City.
The company proposed dividing approximately 3.3 million square feet across four structures including three 22-story office towers with retail space and the 'Helix,' a 370,000-square-foot glass building shaped like a double helix to house an artist-in-residence program, a meeting center and an outdoor hill climb.
The Arlington County Planning Commission unanimously approved the plans earlier this month.
It required extensive community input over several months, which included public tours with developers and planners. Changes were made to the original renderings to add more green space and increased spaces for pedestrian and bicyclists.
With the large development, Amazon said it would become a good member of the community by offering space for Arlington Community High School and providing $30 million for affordable housing initiatives in Arlington. Among other contributions including $45 million in total investments to local nonprofits, community groups, public schools and businesses.
Through the Housing Equity Fund, Amazon contributed more than $800 million to support affordable housing in the Arlington and metro-Washington, D.C., areas.
Just before the vote, the company announced it reached a milestone this week by hiring more than 5,000 employees. The goal since the announcement in 2018 was to hire 25,000 employees over the next several years. It is unclear how many of the hires were local.
While there is excitement for the changes, the group Arlingtonians For Our Sustainable Future, which advocates for more accountable development in Arlington, finds the community is not benefiting enough.
"As structured now, Arlington would trade world-record bonus density -- more buildable space -- for unequal community benefits from Amazon," AFS said in a statement. "We are currently suggesting $413.1 million in amenities to include a new school/community center in Pentagon City, affordable housing and education grants, park improvements/tree fund, and transit projects to ease congestion near HQ2."
Anne Bodine of ASF said even if the county votes to approve the plans, she hopes this development would be a reminder for residents.
"We're not opposing Amazon's presence, but we think we deserve a better deal and we hope this deal illustrates what we need to have for every other process moving forward," she said.
"We will continue to engage with the Arlington community to understand how we can best support the issues that matter to local residents," John Schoettler, Amazon Vice President of Global Real Estate and Facilities, said in a statement. "Our goal is to build a second headquarters that integrates into the surrounding neighborhood and benefits the entire region. We appreciate Arlington County and the community’s partnership in this process, and we are excited to continue the conversation."
Construction has already begun for Amazon HQ2's earlier phase called Metropolitan Park. It is right on track and should open by 2023, according to the company.
Metropolitan Park sits along Eads Street in Pentagon City. The 2.1-million-square-feet project will include two 22-story office buildings, more than 50,000 square feet of retail space for local small businesses and a 2-acre public park. District Dogs and RAKO Coffee are the first businesses to sign a lease at Met Park. | 2022-04-22T09:45:14Z | www.wusa9.com | Amazon HQ2's PenPlace proposal nearing completion | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/amazon-hq2-penplace-proposals-to-seek-final-approval-in-next-county-board-meeting/65-0dba838f-fba6-41a1-a19d-4d9cb994e079 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/amazon-hq2-penplace-proposals-to-seek-final-approval-in-next-county-board-meeting/65-0dba838f-fba6-41a1-a19d-4d9cb994e079 |
For the first time in 10 years you'll be soon be able to tour the C&O Canal in Georgetown by boat.
WASHINGTON — A uniquely D.C. activity is making a comeback.
For the first time in 10 years, you'll soon be able to tour the C&O Canal in Georgetown by boat.
The first boat tours began in 1971, when the the C&O Canal became a National Historic Park. In 2011, the first canal boat, called The Georgetown, was damaged beyond repair and inoperable.
The new canal boat is called The Georgetown Heritage. A non-profit, also called Georgetown Heritage, teamed up with the C&O Canal National Historic Park to bring back the boat tours.
The new boat was funded by a grant from the District of Columbia, and designed as a historic replica of the boats you would see in the 1880s, during the heyday of the canal’s commercial operation in Georgetown, according to the Georgetown Heritage website.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 28. It will feature live music, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Tickets can be purchased here. Tours open to the public on Friday, April 29.
Visitors will learn about the history of the canal and the stories of people who lived and worked there over the past two centuries.
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Annual News Bash returns to benefit breast cancer organizations | 2022-04-22T11:18:14Z | www.wusa9.com | Georgetown C&O Canal boat tours are back | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/get-up-dc/georgetown-c-and-o-canal-boat-tours-return/65-d1a74b8a-82cd-4cd9-adb2-715fa1c454a5 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/get-up-dc/georgetown-c-and-o-canal-boat-tours-return/65-d1a74b8a-82cd-4cd9-adb2-715fa1c454a5 |
The Georgetown canal boat is back | It's A DC Thing
For the first time in over a decade, canal boat tours are back in Georgetown
13-year-old arrested for alleged DC crime spree, including armed robbery with hammer, carjacking with gun, assault
Police said they've arrested the young boy for a total of 11 crimes, including trying to take a woman's car and hitting her in the head multiple times with a hammer.
WASHINGTON — DC Police have announced the arrest of a 13-year-old boy from Northeast who allegedly went on a crime spree over the past month, committing various offenses between March 27 to as recently as Tuesday.
Police did not release the boy's name due to his age, however, he has been accused of an armed robbery in which he hit a Northeast D.C. woman in the back of the head with a hammer multiple times; carjacking with a gun, stealing cars and two assaults, among a long list of other crimes. The boy is twice accused of committing as many as three crimes in one day. | 2022-04-22T11:18:20Z | www.wusa9.com | 13-year-old arrested for alleged DC crime spree | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/washington-dc-crime-13-year-old-arrested-for-crime-spree-including-armed-robbery-with-hammer-carjacking-with-gun-assault/65-3bd95519-2b44-4819-b70c-b7710375bd65 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/washington-dc-crime-13-year-old-arrested-for-crime-spree-including-armed-robbery-with-hammer-carjacking-with-gun-assault/65-3bd95519-2b44-4819-b70c-b7710375bd65 |
The victim was shot in the leg and taken to the hospital. Police have not yet given an update on his current condition.
WASHINGTON — A D.C. construction worker was shot in the leg overnight when a person on a bike began shooting in his direction, police said.
Minutes before midnight on April 21, the District's gunshot detection system, ShotSpotter, noted four rounds fired at 999 Howard Road Southeast, just outside of the Anacostia Metro station, police said.
The construction worker was holding up a flag and directing traffic for the construction site when a person on a bike pulled out a silver handgun and shot at him, hitting him in the upper leg, according to police.
Coworkers told the officers the details of what happened, according to the police report.
The suspect is at large and the shooting incident remains under investigation.
Also in D.C., neighbors are now speaking out in Northeast after a 38-year-old mother of two children was shot and killed on Easter Sunday at a gas station they say is rife with crime and loitering.
The shooting happened around 11:15 a.m. along the 3900 block of Minnesota Avenue Northeast.
According to data obtained from DC Police, the gas station at the location has seen four homicides, 14 armed assaults and 27 robberies within 1,000 feet within the last year.
Investigators identified the woman killed on the holiday as Tiffany Wiggins.
Wright Family Foundation founder and D.C. activist Sade Wright said she knew Wiggins after their two brothers hung out during their childhood. | 2022-04-22T14:20:17Z | www.wusa9.com | DC construction worker shot by person on bike | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-suspect-on-bike-shoots-dc-construction-worker-directing-traffic/65-88c79d3e-7471-4db7-932b-893ba776aa46 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-suspect-on-bike-shoots-dc-construction-worker-directing-traffic/65-88c79d3e-7471-4db7-932b-893ba776aa46 |
Man accused of transporting 85 pounds of marijuana along I-85 in Virginia
The arrest happened on April 13 in Mecklenburg County, which is west of Hampton Roads and south of Richmond.
MECKLENBURG COUNTY, Va. — Author's note: The video above is about Delta-8 sales in Virginia. It aired on April 14.
A Rhode Island man was arrested after a Virginia state trooper allegedly found around 85 pounds of marijuana inside his pickup truck.
The incident happened on April 13 along Interstate 85 in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, which is west of the Hampton Roads region and south of Richmond. | 2022-04-22T18:55:13Z | www.wusa9.com | VSP: Man drove through Virginia with 85 pounds of marijuana | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/virginia-interstate-85-marijuana-bust-mecklenburg-county/291-b28e725d-fbad-4974-be48-0d6f83daf2f6 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/virginia-interstate-85-marijuana-bust-mecklenburg-county/291-b28e725d-fbad-4974-be48-0d6f83daf2f6 |
The man was found dead Friday around 2:20 p.m., police say.
WASHINGTON — Metropolitan Police Department says a man was found dead in Northeast D.C. Friday with burn wounds.
Officers were called to the 1600 block of Montana Avenue around 2:20 p.m. to investigate a death. When they arrived, MPD said a man was found dead in the area with burn wounds.
Police are investigating the man's death in conjunction with DC Fire and EMS.
It is unclear how the man was burned.
Man arrested for starting fires at ATMs, gas stations in Montgomery County
WATCH NEXT: Multiple Ashburn houses hit by bullets in the middle of the night, community concerned | 2022-04-22T23:28:13Z | www.wusa9.com | Man found dead with burn wounds in Northeast DC | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/man-dead-burn-wounds-police-fire-ems-investigate/65-d4bacb10-ab95-4c7e-8fd0-682488a1edc8 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/man-dead-burn-wounds-police-fire-ems-investigate/65-d4bacb10-ab95-4c7e-8fd0-682488a1edc8 |
AG Miyares said Officers Amaya and Vinyard 'acted reasonably in their use of force, and did no more than was necessary and proper...'
RICHMOND, Va. — EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above is from a vigil held by Ghaisar's family in November 2021.
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares echoed language used last year when a federal judge dismissed all criminal charges against two U.S. Park Police, saying the actions taken by Officers Alejandro Amaya and Lucas Vinyard "necessary and proper" in the shooting incident that killed driver Bijan Ghaisar in 2017.
Officials said Ghaisar, 25, had gotten into a fender-bender on the George Washington Parkway in Alexandria the night of Nov. 17, 2017. They said he was not at fault for the accident, but he left the scene.
Police said the two U.S. Park Police officers followed Ghaisar and pulled him over. Video released by the Fairfax County Police Department shows that Ghaisar took off and stopped two more times before the officers fired nine shots into his car.
The DOJ said those shots ended up killing him. Police said Ghaisar was unarmed and had no drugs in his car. Both Amaya and Vinyard have claimed self-defense in response to the family's wrongful death lawsuit.
The officers asked for months for their case to be moved from state court to federal, where the law grants them more immunity for actions taken while on the job. In April 2021, a judge agreed but ruled it would still be heard by Judge Hilton and argued by the state of Virginia.
On Friday, Miyares halted the state’s federal appeal in the case, which stops the efforts to criminally prosecute the officers. He released a statement Friday explaining his decision to order the Fourth Circuit to dismiss the Commonwealth’s appeal.
“I, alongside my team of seasoned, dedicated prosecutors, all of whom are longtime members of the Virginia Bar and have over 75 years of experience, reviewed the evidence in the case against then-Federal Officers Alejandro Amaya and Lucas Vinyard. We agree with the results of the extensive review conducted by the Department of Justice, and the analysis of the United States District Court. In light of all the circumstances of the life-or-death situation confronting them, Officers Amaya and Vinyard acted reasonably in their use of force, and did no more than was necessary and proper to perform their lawful duties as federal officers.
"I have therefore decided to ask the Fourth Circuit to dismiss the Commonwealth’s appeal. I will not perpetuate the continued prosecution of two officers who were doing what they were trained to do under tremendously difficult circumstances.
"The events of November 17, 2017, were undoubtedly tragic. I am saddened by what happened and the pain it has caused. But persecuting the police was the wrong response. We will not make our Commonwealth safer by vilifying the hard-working men and women who put on the uniform and shield every day and protect our families, homes, and businesses. Prosecutors need to prosecute criminals, not cops doing what they were trained to do. I am proud to support the brave men and women in blue who risk their lives to protect ours.
"Police officers perform their duties every day in the face of grave danger. As Attorney General, my duty is to follow the law. In this case, following the law requires that I ask the Fourth Circuit to end this appeal.”
Judge dismisses criminal charges against USPP officers who shot, killed Bijan Ghaisar
'Why did it take so long? How did they reach this conclusion?' | Wall of silence back up in U.S. Park Police Bijan Ghaisar shooting
Fatal shooting of Bijan Ghaisar was self-defense, U.S. Park Police Officer says | 2022-04-22T23:28:19Z | www.wusa9.com | Virginia AG halts case against Park Police who killed Ghaisar | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/virginia-attorney-general-ends-case-against-us-park-police-officers-death-of-bijan-ghaisar-officers-amaya-vinyard/65-347bb5a8-b92b-494b-8435-7758bf3acbad | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/virginia-attorney-general-ends-case-against-us-park-police-officers-death-of-bijan-ghaisar-officers-amaya-vinyard/65-347bb5a8-b92b-494b-8435-7758bf3acbad |
Police are unsure what caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle but say she struck several posts before she left the roadway and rolled over in a field.
Montgomery Co. Police Department
GAITHERSBURG, Md. — A 60-year-old woman is dead after a serious crash in Gaithersburg Friday afternoon.
Montgomery County Police officers responded to Woodfield Road between Watkins Road and Deanna drive for a car crash.
Investigators determined a silver 2006 Dodge Magnum was driving north on Woodfield Road when the driver lost control and struck several fence posts on the right side of the lane. The car continued to travel across into the southbound lanes before it let the road and rolled over into a field.
The driver was ejected from the vehicle during the roll over, an official with the department said.
The driver was taken to a nearby hospital with serious injuries. Unfortunately police say she died a few hours later.
The name of the deceased will be released following proper notification of the family. This is an active and ongoing investigation.
The collision is now being investigated by the Montgomery County Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU). Anyone with information regarding this collision is asked to contact CRU detectives at (240) 773- 6620.
RELATED: Three cars involved in fatal crash closes portion of Clara Barton Parkway
Meet the 'flavor scientists' behind Old Bay Vodka available in DC, Maryland and Delaware | 2022-04-23T15:48:02Z | www.wusa9.com | Woman killed in in Gaithersburg crash Friday afternoon | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/woman-killed-in-crash-after-being-ejected-from-vehicle/65-13143acf-fcab-4f77-8ff0-17fd2dd8c74d | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/woman-killed-in-crash-after-being-ejected-from-vehicle/65-13143acf-fcab-4f77-8ff0-17fd2dd8c74d |
New youth baseball field opens in Prince George's County with help of MLB Hall of Famer
Cal Ripken Jr. comes to Prince George's County to cut ribbon on new park neighboring the police department.
LANDOVER HILLS, Md. — This Friday, the ribbon was cut at Robbie Callaway Sr. Field at Group 1001 Park. This $1.2 million, 55,000-square-foot youth baseball field is unique in that it’s the first of its kind in the country to be on police property.
This field sits next to the Prince George’s County Police Department and on police grounds.
“I think this idea of working together with the police department right here on the grounds is going to make a difference in kids’ lives, it really will,” Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan said.
“You’re bringing the community here, but also you’re bringing the police officers to the community, and it just helps to make a better relationship," said MLB Hall of Fame shortstop Cal Ripken Jr.
Robbie Callaway Sr. Field at Group 1001 Park opened Friday. This $1.2 million, 55,000-square-foot youth baseball field is unique in that it’s the first of its kind in the country to be on police property, near the Prince George's County Police Department.
This field was made possible by the Cal Ripken Senior Foundation, started in honor of Ripken Jr.'s late father. The former Baltimore Orioles slugger, Ripken Jr., created this foundation after his father died more than two decades ago. His father was also his coach and an advocate for helping to strengthen America’s underserved communities.
"I go through an emotional run every single time we do a field because it’s personal to me. The Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation is named after dad, we lost him too early and my mom encouraged us to capture dad’s legacy by helping kids," Ripken Jr. said.
Fans crowd around Cal Ripken Jr’s car during the 1983 World Series parade pic.twitter.com/o44IwHnVUy
— Baseball In Pics (@baseballinpix) December 14, 2021
This is the 12th youth development park to be built as a direct result of the Foundation’s partnership with Group 1001.
This field in Landover, Md., will be home to various after school programs and sports for the Prince George’s County Police Activities League and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington.
As we kick-off our 2022 programming year, we want to highlight our Badges for Baseball program! Badges provides youth across the country the opportunity to interact with law enforcement officers and other positive adult mentors, while learning character-building skills. pic.twitter.com/3L00eAUljk
— Cal Ripken Sr Fdn (@CalRipkenSrFdn) February 8, 2022
At the ribbon cutting for the park, Ripken Jr. and Hogan joked that this field was nicer than some they grew up playing on.
Hogan said, "I grew up in Landover Hills right down the street and we hardly had grass on our fields. It was mostly dirt, so this looks way better."
Ripken Jr. said, "The lessons you learn from your coaches and the experience of sports we all know is valuable and we’d like to continue the experience and make it that much better for the kids to have a field like this to play on."
It was great to be back in Prince George’s County today to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation’s newest Youth Development Park—the first of its kind in the nation to be built on the grounds of a police department. pic.twitter.com/asURTV353y
There is no date set for when the first games will be played on this new field, but officers with the Prince George's Police Department tell us they expect the field to be in use very soon.
Healthcare center for people living with HIV, AIDS opens in Northern Virginia
Permanent DC sportsbook holds grand opening at Capital One Arena
Homeless veteran who slept in his car, traveled the country to help others gets new home | 2022-04-24T01:18:11Z | www.wusa9.com | Cal Ripken Jr. cuts ribbon for baseball field in Prince George's | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/youth-baseball-field-opens-in-prince-georges-county-with-help-of-mlb-hall-of-famer/65-d1ceaea5-e808-4117-ad10-5686adfde18d | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/youth-baseball-field-opens-in-prince-georges-county-with-help-of-mlb-hall-of-famer/65-d1ceaea5-e808-4117-ad10-5686adfde18d |
The man shot three adults on Kennedy Street, as police were actively pursuing another suspect connected to the quadruple shooting on Van Ness and Connecticut Friday.
WASHINGTON — Metropolitan Police Department is continuing to investigate a triple shooting that happened Friday evening in Northwest D.C.
According to police, a man shot three adults at around 6:40 p.m. Friday — at the same time that there was an active search for the person who shot four people on Connecticut Avenue and Van Ness Street in Northwest.
Officers from District 4 were dispatched to the 600 block of Kennedy Street in Northwest for reports of shots fired. When officers arrived they found two men and a woman suffering from gunshot wounds.
The three adults who were shot were taken to the hospital and treated for injuries, police say.
A person wanted in connection to the shooting was captured by a surveillance camera in the area. MPD released the images and are asking the public's help in identifying the individual show in the pictures.
MPD seeks a suspect in reference to an Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Gun) offense that occurred on Friday, April 22, 2022, in the 600 block of Kennedy Street, Northwest.
Release: https://t.co/LhIoFEYuMm pic.twitter.com/Ev0EMyZmIO
Anyone with information about the case should call police at 202-727-9099. Information can also be texted to MPD by sending the message TEXT TIP LINE to 50411.
Anyone who provides information to police that can lead to an arrest and conviction could potentially receive a reward from MPD of up to $10,000.
RELATED: Triple shooting reported about 3 miles from earlier shooting in NW DC; man in wheelchair also shot in separate incident
RELATED: 20-year-old killed in Germantown shooting Friday | 2022-04-24T03:14:36Z | www.wusa9.com | Photos show man wanted in connection for triple shooting in NW DC | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/dc-police-release-photos-of-man-wanted-in-connection-with-triple-shooting-kennedy-street/65-b667b675-be1c-4e96-95cc-66b8a683409a | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/dc-police-release-photos-of-man-wanted-in-connection-with-triple-shooting-kennedy-street/65-b667b675-be1c-4e96-95cc-66b8a683409a |
Edmund Burke School closed Monday as families grapple with nearby shooting, traumatic dismissal
A man with a "sniper-style" setup fired more than 60 gunshots in 19 seconds, aiming and hitting the windows of Edmund Burke School with students still inside.
WASHINGTON — The Edmund Burke School, grappling with the aftermath of a shooting that put students in the crosshairs, will be closed Monday for a day of recovery.
The elite private school that enrolls about 300 students in sixth through 12th grade was significantly impacted by a shooting in Northwest D.C. Friday afternoon that left four people injured. WUSA9 obtained an email that Damian Jones, head of school at Edmund Burke, sent to families Saturday where he said “three community members” were injured in the shooting.
Students were leaving school for the day, when a gunman allegedly in the AVA Van Ness building opened fire from a fifth-floor apartment with what DC Police Chief Robert Contee described as a “sniper-type setup” with six firearms and a tripod for mounting rifles.
People in the neighborhood, including the school community, panicked as the gunman opened fire, shooting more than 60 rounds in 19 seconds, aiming at and hitting the school windows. Contee told reporters Saturday morning that investigators know that in total, “over 100 rounds were fired from a long gun” apparently at random.
Police say the man suspected of the attack died by suicide in the fifth floor AVA Van Ness apartment, but they have not yet confirmed his identity.
Several residential buildings, businesses and nearby schools sheltered-in-place, for hours, including Edmund Burke School, as investigators actively searched for the gunman. Parents started finally reunited with students around 6:45 p.m. when students were bussed to the Cleveland Park Library, which served as a reunification center.
Jones opened his letter to the Edmund Burke community Saturday writing, “We don’t yet have words for what we all experienced [Friday].”
He said school leaders are assessing how to best move forward as a community.
“Our Administrative Team and Executive Committee of the Board will meet tomorrow and on Monday to discuss how we can best attend to our community’s needs, mental and physical, in the days and weeks to come,” he wrote. "For now, parents, hold your children close and, students, be in close touch with your friends."
WUSA9 spoke with Edmund Burke parents and people in the Van Ness neighborhood who are not only processing what happened Friday but many of whom said they are deeply concerned about the easy access to guns in the District.
Screenshot from a 30-second long video purportedly recorded and posted by an alleged shooter while he opened fire in Northwest D.C. Friday.
In Jones' letter to families, he described the action taken by staff, faculty, and administrators who sheltered with students, writing “everyone did everything right.”
“[O]ur faculty, staff, and administrators who sheltered, cared for, and stayed with our students; our young people who showed profound courage and compassion for one another, and even brought levity to yesterday’s long hours," he said. "Our local and federal law enforcement who were on-site within minutes; our neighbors who opened their businesses and homes, including our colleagues at the Levine School.”
The school has reportedly asked parents to limit their communication with members of the media.
Many parents have been reluctant to speak on camera and agreed to speak to WUSA9 on the condition that their names not be included in this story.
“We live in the nation's capital and there's no safe space in the city,” one Edmund Burke mother said.
The mother said the school has been excellent in their communication and despite the tragedy, she feels her daughter is safe there.
“On one hand, it brings me a high level of anxiety; just being around the school, within the area, going into the carpool lane," she said. "But on the other hand, I feel some level of comfort. I feel like it might be a safe space for my daughter."
Of the four people who were shot by the gunman, police say two were women — one in her 30s the other in her 60s — one was a 54-year-old man and the youngest was a 12-year-old girl. MPD said all of the known victims survived the shooting, but police haven’t officially identified these individuals, nor said where they were shot.
One victim, Patricia Termini, spoke to WUSA9 hours after the shooting Friday and showed a hole through her bloodstained blouse, where her shoulder was grazed by a bullet. She said she was treated on the scene.
Termini said she was in her car waiting to pick up a child who attends Edmund Burke. She heard what sounded like an explosion and started calling the parents of the child. Suddenly, after the third burst of gunfire sounded, Termini said she got out of her car and called out — “Am I shot? Am I shot? Am I shot?” — before noticing her wounds.
People in the Van Ness neighborhood said they are still grappling with the trauma of the day.
Binta Robinson has always called D.C. home. Though she has no school-aged children, she’s disturbed her neighborhood seemed to be the target of such a violent attack.
“It just breaks my sense of safety and well-being,” Robinson said Sunday.
Credit: Letter obtained by WUSA9
Damian Jones, head of school at Edmund Burke School, sent this letter to families in an email on April 23, one day after a gunman shot 4 people as students were dismissing from school on Connecticut Avenue and Van Ness Street.
Alfredo Fort said he’s been living in this community for a short time. Friday’s shooting served as a reminder, that crime has no zip code.
“Frankly speaking, I never thought it was going to happen here," he said. "You know, because, well of course, it's a privileged area. Let's admit it."
Fort said he's concerned from a public safety aspect and the mental health of the community.
"When you combine that with free availability of machine guns, why can people get machine guns?" he wondered. "We saw the pictures. How can that be?"
Seemingly oblivious to the danger this area found itself in just a few days ago, children were skipping along the sidewalks Sunday, enjoying the summer-like temperatures. The Edmund Burke School mother she’s more concerned with the current level of access everyday people have to weapons, and normalizing tragedy for children.
“There’s still gun violence, there’s still bullets flying," she said. "So, it comes down to congress dealing with this gun violence and our mayor." | 2022-04-25T01:43:36Z | www.wusa9.com | Edmund Burke School closed for recovery after "sniper" shooting | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/van-ness-sniper-shooting-edmund-burke-school-closed-for-recovery-parents-community-react/65-52c4afc5-b7ba-4ed2-b367-a9d6801dae9d | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/van-ness-sniper-shooting-edmund-burke-school-closed-for-recovery-parents-community-react/65-52c4afc5-b7ba-4ed2-b367-a9d6801dae9d |
Abraham Douglas of Silver Spring faces charges for the death of a Takoma Park man. Police arrested Douglas at the scene of a burglary where he had a gunshot wound.
TAKOMA PARK, Md. — The City of Takoma Park Police Department arrested a man in connection with a fatal shooting Friday night.
In a statement, Takoma Park police identified the man arrested as Abraham Douglas, 21, of Silver Spring. Douglas faces charges of murder in connection to the death of Ahmadou Bamba Gueye, 23, of Takoma Park.
According to a statement from Takoma Park police, officers were called to the 7600 block of Maple Avenue around 5:45 p.m. on Friday for reports of a shooting.
When they arrived, officers found Gueye "suffering from a gunshot wound." Police say he was taken to a hospital and died from his injuries.
pic.twitter.com/cjCRWFsHWR
— Takoma Park Police (@TakomaParkPD) April 23, 2022
Investigators located Douglas the night of the shooting after police say he burglarized a residence located on the 600 block of Kennebec Avenue in Takoma Park.
Police arrested Douglas and "recovered a handgun and 50-round drum magazine." Officers noticed that Douglas "was suffering from a gunshot wound to his lower extremity" so he was taken to the hospital.
After Douglas was treated for his injuries and released from the hospital, police say "he was charged with murder, burglary, and firearms violations, among other charges."
He is in custody at the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit and is being held without bond.
Police are continuing to investigate this case and ask anyone with information to call 301-270-1100. People who want to provide anonymous information can text a tip to 847411, but type "TPPDTIP" at the beginning of the message. | 2022-04-25T04:00:46Z | www.wusa9.com | Silver Spring faces murder charges for Takoma Park shooting | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/takoma-park-police-arrest-silver-spring-man-in-connection-with-fatal-shooting/65-ec89b5ca-71a9-41e7-bb2f-37e714ff230b | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/takoma-park-police-arrest-silver-spring-man-in-connection-with-fatal-shooting/65-ec89b5ca-71a9-41e7-bb2f-37e714ff230b |
Justices allow admissions policy at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology
Following a violent weekend, the city is announcing a new intelligence-led policing unit focusing on violent crime, called the Violent Crime Impact Team.
WASHINGTON — A quadruple sniper-style shooting that put students in the crosshairs. A triple shooting happening simultaneously just a few miles away. A man in a wheelchair shot over an argument with teens. A man stabbed and shot to death while at a birthday party.
These are just four of the 10 shootings that DC Police Chief Robert Contee was briefed on within a 24-hour span. And the chief is fed up.
As part of the District's "different approach" Contee and Mayor Muriel Bowser jointly announced a new intelligence-led policing unit focusing on violent crime, called the Violent Crime Impact Team (VCIT). The initiative will place an emphasis on partnership between local and federal law enforcement with a goal of enhancing investigative abilities and removing illegal guns from the streets.
"The places that we have had the most success is when we are partners with other law enforcement, partners with the community," Contee said. "The reason we were able to amass so many resources to the scene of [Friday's quadruple shooting] is in large part due to the partnerships we have had with federal partners and local partners. Intelligence sharing enabled us to quickly identify the shooter and prevent additional harm from coming to community members."
The VCIT will include members of MPD, the FBI, ATF and the DEA. MPD will mostly focus on the "proactive work on the street" while the federal partners will work to improve the investigative components "for efficient prosecution."
“This is about using a whole-of-government approach, but it’s also about focusing our attention and resources on exactly where we know the problem is," Bowser said. "Our message is clear – we will continue to offer people in our city a better path forward, but if people choose to engage in violence, then they will be held accountable.”
When asked why a partnership now, when homicide rates have been trending uo for the last several years, the mayor cited a lack of resources available to MPD, and the ongoing impacts of the pandemic.
"Our ecosystem has been upended and it’s not 100% back, or in person, and people are living on the edge," Bowser said. "We need everyone in the system., and that includes the community, because we will get safer together.”
DC is currently 263 violent crimes over where it was this time last year, yet the city is experiencing a 10% reduction in homicides.
While Contee noted that violent crime over the last nine years has actually decreased, his big area of concern is gun crime, particularly armed robberies.
"Members of the Metropolitan Police Department recovered 40 illegal firearms in our city just this weekend," Contee said. "That number alone, should make every person in this room cringe."
Currently, the homicide rate is 10% lower than the numbers we saw this time last year, but overall violent crimes are outpacing 2021 numbers by 263 cases so far.
"How are we holding individuals accountable when they commit these types of violent acts in our community?" Contee asked. [Some people] deserve to be in jail because they have demonstrated they cannot function in community ... And when we identify people like that, we have to hold those individuals accountable." | 2022-04-26T01:07:42Z | www.wusa9.com | New initiative between DC Police, feds to reduce violent crime | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/chief-contee-mayor-bowser-new-initiativefederal-paretners-to-combat-violent-crime/65-da30c12b-2793-4ada-aaaf-3f5b04c545af | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/chief-contee-mayor-bowser-new-initiativefederal-paretners-to-combat-violent-crime/65-da30c12b-2793-4ada-aaaf-3f5b04c545af |
The advisory board comes as student arrests increase
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Editor's Note: The video above was published on March 25, 2022.
It's a topic that's been on a lot of our minds - school safety. Some students in Alexandria said they don't feel safe in their buildings after a number of fights, lockdowns and weapons were found in school.
It has been a turbulent school year in some Alexandria City Public Schools - for parents and students.
“You have done nothing to help our kids,” ACPS parent Ricardo Richards told the school board last week.
“Why is it that we have to go to school, sometimes, afraid because all of these crimes taking place at our school?” asked Zachary Richards.
Alexandria City High School student Zachary Roberts shared his story before the school board last week. Members just approved the Superintendent’s pitch to create a 16-person advisory group to come up with recommendations to make schools safer. The city council voted to remove School Resource Officers in the fall but brought them back three months later after parents and school leaders complained of increased crimes. The controversial SRO program has been extended for another year. In that time, the School Law Enforcement Partnership will help decide how BEST to use police in the schools.
“People who have criminal justice background, people who have social justice background as well as anyone who has interest or passion in regard to black males as well as females in education those areas of expertise,” said Superintendent Dr. Gregory Hutchings, Jr. “That will help us grapple with a lot of these questions.”
WUSA9 took a closer look at numbers from a school safety report released in March. According to the report, 18 students were arrested in the first 5 months of the school year. The data showed 41 assaults were reported, and 13 weapons recovered - including one gun, five knives, a stun gun, two fake firearms and pepper spray.
According to the school systems arrest data, Black and Hispanic students are being arrested at higher rates in middle schools than their white counterparts. In high school, Black children and white male students make up most of the arrests.
“Put metal detectors in the building,” suggested Ricardo Roberts, “It deters. It doesn’t stop, but it deters.”
“Seems like everything is more so being done for image as opposed to helping children;” testified his son Zachary. “It doesn’t matter how much you say you’re going to punish them, if you don’t actually follow through with your own rules or selectively enforcing them - that’s not right.”
School leaders hope to form the advisory group within a month and after several meetings, send their safety plan to the superintendent by December.
The deadline for community members and parents to apply for the SLEP advisory board is 11:59 p.m. on May 2.
RELATED: Alexandra school board analyzes security incidents, outlines plans for school law enforcement advisory group
RELATED: School Resource Officers return to Alexandria schools Monday | 2022-04-26T01:07:54Z | www.wusa9.com | Advisory board to study safety and police in Alexandria schools | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/school-safety-and-sro-program-to-be-examined-by-advisory-group-in-alexandria/65-d2243603-ba57-46cd-b46c-996055b150c2 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/school-safety-and-sro-program-to-be-examined-by-advisory-group-in-alexandria/65-d2243603-ba57-46cd-b46c-996055b150c2 |
Detectives are currently investigating a homicide that left a man dead after being stabbed multiple times and suffering from a gunshot wound.
The Metropolitan Police Department is investigating a homicide they say took place early Saturday morning in Northwest, D.C.
At around 5:13 a.m. police responded to a report of a shooting on the 700 block of Morton St., NW, according to police.
When police arrived, they were able to locate a man, later identified as 38-year-old Earnest Thompson, suffering from a gunshot wound and multiple stab wounds.
DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services took Thompson to a nearby hospital, where shortly after he died from his injuries.
If anyone has additional information for this case, police are asking those with information to call 202-727-9099 or text the department's tip line at 50411 if they wish to remain anonymous.
Police are currently searching to identify suspects and are offering a reward of $25,000 to anyone that can provide additional information that can lead to the arrest and conviction of the people responsible for each homicide in D.C.
RELATED: DC man faces 5 years in prison for attacking police on Jan. 6 | 2022-04-26T02:42:58Z | www.wusa9.com | DC Police investigate fatal stabbing and shooting of man | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-police-investigate-fatal-stabbing-and-shooting-of-man/65-4bdcbadc-dc35-4d5b-8d5e-828afbcb4f44 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-police-investigate-fatal-stabbing-and-shooting-of-man/65-4bdcbadc-dc35-4d5b-8d5e-828afbcb4f44 |
Four high-profile crimes have happened near Van Ness and Connecticut in the last two months, including last Friday's quadruple shooting from an apartment building.
In the last two months, ANC 3F, which surrounds Connecticut Avenue near the University of the District of Columbia has experienced a quadruple shooting from an apartment building, a quintuple shooting at a hotel, a fatal shooting at an ambassador's residence and a domestic dispute that caused a woman to jump out of an eight-story window.
Metropolitan Police Data shows crime here has jumped 44% year-to-date.
On Monday, ANC 3F held a community meeting with MPD Second District Commander Duncan Bedlion and Ward 3 DC Councilmember Mary Cheh, among other local leaders, about how to decrease crime.
Northwest D.C. resident Kathy Sykes said all the recent violence in the area provided the community a chance to come together and solve a problem.
"Clearly, the three days in a row of events that dealt with guns in the neighborhood were very disconcerting," she said.
Some people at the meeting said they were frustrated with the District's housing voucher program, which they claim has done a poor job of screening the participants it relocates.
Cheh said there are some people in the program who have a history of severe mental illness.
"These folks need clinical help," she said. "Not just social workers and we need some way to get a grip on what's happening in these units."
But, ANC 3F Chair Claudette David noted law-abiding citizens in the program are still welcome in the neighborhood and that crime cannot be directly correlated to the program.
Still, she asked for what many other D.C. neighborhoods have asked for recently. David said she wants more police in the area and more services to help people suffering from mental illness or who may have other needs.
"We do know that there's no structure right now, it doesn't exist, for the caseworkers, for the building managers, police officers," she said. "We don't know if caseworkers know if someone called the police on one of their clients."
Alexandra Appah, the vice-chair of ANC 3F, added the issue is complex.
"This is a multi-layered issue that obviously impacts our community and impacts communities all the way across D.C." | 2022-04-26T02:43:04Z | www.wusa9.com | Upper NW residents hold meeting about local increase in crime | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/upper-northwest-gather-hold-meeting-about-crime-in-the-area/65-ccb82968-bbf6-487a-bed4-bc2e8e2bf193 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/upper-northwest-gather-hold-meeting-about-crime-in-the-area/65-ccb82968-bbf6-487a-bed4-bc2e8e2bf193 |
DC Police Chief Robert Contee calls the recent surge in gun violence "unacceptable behavior."
Author: Susan Phillips, Matt Pusatory (WUSA9)
WASHINGTON — Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers are investigating four separate shootings that occurred in the District Monday night and into Tuesday morning, sending four men to the hospital where one of the victims died.
Police say one of the surviving victims was shot after suspects robbed him.
Police say the violence started around 9:40 p.m. in MPD's Seventh District when officers were called to the 2300 block of Mount View Place in Southeast D.C. after a Good Samaritan contacted police to report a man suffering a knee injury.
Watch Commander Lt. Dien-Long Tran says when DC Fire and EMS arrived on the scene, they found the man had actually been shot. He was taken to a local hospital where police say he is recovering.
The victim told police he was approached by two suspects in masks who took his cell phone, then shot him. The victim had no way to call for help until he encountered the Good Samaritan, according to police.
Around 11:35 p.m. officers in MPD's Fourth District were called to the 5000 block of South Dakota Ave. NE after receiving a call from a citizen who found a shooting victim in the area, police said. Capt. John Terry, Watch Commander for MPD's Fourth District, says officers found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead, Capt. Terry said. Police have not released any information about possible suspects in this shooting or the circumstances surrounding it.
Just over a half hour later, back in the Seventh District, police were called to the 3400 block of 22nd St. SE after a man reported he was shot while sitting in his vehicle, Lt. Tran said.
Police were already alerted to the sound of gunshots in the area and found the man suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg when they arrived on scene. The victim stated a silver four-door sedan pulled up next to his vehicle and someone fired a shot through the driver's side door, striking the victim in the leg, Tran said. Police say it is unclear if the victim knew his assailants.
The latest incident occurred in the 4400 block of E St. SE around 12:50 a.m. Lt. Derek Dude, Watch Commander for MPD's Sixth District, says police were called to the area for a report of a shooting. Once on scene they found a man shot in the leg. DC Fire and EMS transported the victim to a local hospital where police say he is being treated for his injury. So far there is no information available on possible suspects or motive in the shooting.
Officials say the investigations into these incidents are ongoing.
This latest batch of shootings comes just hours after MPD Police Chief Robert Contee III announced a new intelligence-led policing unit focusing on violent crime, called the Violent Crime Impact Team.
The initiative will place an emphasis on partnership between local and federal law enforcement with a goal of enhancing investigative abilities and removing illegal guns from the streets. | 2022-04-26T10:19:09Z | www.wusa9.com | DC gun violence: 4 shootings in 3 hours, 1 dead | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/four-shootings-in-three-hours-leave-one-dead-in-dc/65-b7137f05-31ec-4ef1-9a36-d2550cf7ef5b | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/four-shootings-in-three-hours-leave-one-dead-in-dc/65-b7137f05-31ec-4ef1-9a36-d2550cf7ef5b |
Seven Virginia locations have already formed a union, and as of April 25, there are 30 stores nationwide that have made the move.
LEESBURG, Va. — Teams at Starbucks locations in Leesburg and Falls Church have become the sixth and seventh in the state to unionize, according to Starbucks Workers United, a group of union advocates based in Buffalo, New York.
One location in Buffalo was the first store to unionize in the history of the 50-year-old coffee retailer in the U.S. According to More Perfect Union, as of April 25, a total of 30 stores have now unionized nationwide.
This week, the Leesburg location won its union in a 23-1 vote, and the Falls Church location won 30-2, Starbucks Workers United confirmed via Twitter.
Starbucks workers have been mobilizing across the country to make unions happen in several locations.
FALLS CHURCH WORKERS WIN 30-2, becoming the 6th unionized Starbucks store in Virginia!!!! pic.twitter.com/rCAetQrNtI
According to the Associated Press, Starbucks insisted in December that its more than 8,000 company-owned U.S. stores function best when the company works directly with its employees, which it calls “partners.” Still, the company already showed a willingness to bargain outside the U.S. at that time, with workers in Victoria, Canada, ratifying a collective bargaining agreement with Starbucks in July, nearly a year after voting to unionize.
I’m LIVE at @SBWorkersUnited Unity Fest in Virginia. The organizing effort at Starbucks is spreading like wildfire thanks to the courage of the workers. Join us as we stand with them in solidarity. https://t.co/WrQw8kyHHm
A Starbucks spokesperson, when asked for comment in December, referred the Associated Press to a letter from company CEO Kevin Johnson from a week earlier about going forward together as “one Starbucks, grounded in the belief that partners are the heartbeat of this company.” | 2022-04-26T19:39:11Z | www.wusa9.com | 2 Virginia Starbucks locations become latest to unionize | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/virginia-starbucks-falls-church-latest-to-unionize-leesburg/65-07e30dcb-3965-4c2f-bf72-9de9797f1081 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/virginia-starbucks-falls-church-latest-to-unionize-leesburg/65-07e30dcb-3965-4c2f-bf72-9de9797f1081 |
Partnership between MCPS and MCPD returns, effective immediately
MCPS reaches agreement to partner with police department, with changes
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. — Editor's Note: The video above originally aired on March 15.
Less than a year after Montgomery County Public Schools became the first Maryland jurisdiction to remove police officers from their buildings, the county is partially reversing course.
In a letter sent to the MCPS community Tuesday, the school district says it has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Montgomery County's Police Department.
“The important social-emotional and mental health supports that we are putting in place along with this new agreement with our police partners is the right solution at this time,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Monifa B. McKnight. “We believe that these officers will be dependable and valuable members of our school communities.”
There will, however, be several changes between previous policing programs and the new MOU, starting with a name change. Previously police at the schools were called School Resource Officers (SROs) but they will now be called Community Engagement Officers (CEOs).
The CEOs will also not be permanently stationed inside schools, but will have a designated work station and schools can make requests for police presence directly to CEOs, and the CEOs may be asked to attend certain school events. The CEOs will also be allowed direct contact with school staff and will be allowed to review security footage of critical incidents.
"While I still feel … we should not be policing our schools, I do believe we have to do something to ensure the safety of our kids," Councilmember Craig Rice, who had previously been in support of ending the SRO program, said during a Council meeting Tuesday. "And as I’ve looked at this MOU I feel as though it is a compromise. It is not perfect, as compromises usually are not. But the reality is if we are doing due diligence in terms of listening to every voice that we try to incorporate all of that together in terms of a message that says ‘all of you have been heard in terms of your priorities and we tried to do the best that we can to meet all of them.'"
RELATED: MCPS to reevaluate school security in wake of Magruder school shooting
Credit: MCPS
According to MCPS, the role of CEOs will be to:
Work with all schools in their assigned cluster.
Participate in required MCPS professional development, including non-violent crisis intervention, and equity and culturally responsive engagement.
Have a direct line of communication and contact with the school and coordinate assistance at major school events, such as athletic events, large dances or other activities.
The letter also noted that CEOs would not be asked to respond to routine school discipline incidents; disciplinary measures will be determined by the Student Code of Conduct instead.
MCPS says it sought input from student and parent focus groups as well as community forums from December through March before making a decision. A series of "youth-police dialogues with MCPS and police representatives" from all 10 police districts in the county was also conducted.
"This MOU allows for our department and our law enforcement partners to further our community policing objectives within and beyond the MCPS community," MCPD Chief Marcus Jones said. "The Montgomery County Police Department is committed to the safety and security of all our MCPS staff, students and partners. This has been a genuine collaboration between all involved parties to listen to the needs of our community.”
The policy reversal on officers inside schools comes three months after a sophomore student was found shot inside a school bathroom at Col. Magruder High School in Derwood. As of mid-March, the student was still recovering from his injuries, and celebrated his 16th birthday from a hospital bed.
"I want to know why the resource officers were taken out, and will they be put back into the schools," the teen's mother, Karen, questioned just days after the shooting. "In the event that [my son] wasn't the only target, I do think it would have helped to have SRO officers in the school."
RELATED: 'I will not allow my son to be in schools with police': Opponents rally against MCPS plan to add school security
Multiple high school student groups protested against bringing back the officers, citing county data that shows police officers disproportionately interacting with students of color on campus. Instead of having armed guards inside of schools, opponents of the CEO plan said more mental health resources should be made available to students.
According to data presented at an MCPS Board of Education meeting in late February, the district has seen an increase in cases of students bringing weapons to schools compared to the 2019 and 2020 school years. An MCPS spokesperson also said the district has seen an increase in physical violence since the return to in-person learning.
"These new guidelines are the right balance for us. Having a more direct and collaborative relationship with our police partners will be beneficial,” Magruder High Principal Leroy Evans said. “This connection in our schools will be something students and staff will see and we will derive a greater sense of security because of it.” | 2022-04-26T21:11:27Z | www.wusa9.com | Montgomery County Public Schools bringing officers back | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/education/community-engagement-officers-montgomery-county-public-schools/65-8475c60e-4c4f-4bed-9c46-6b6d07245532 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/education/community-engagement-officers-montgomery-county-public-schools/65-8475c60e-4c4f-4bed-9c46-6b6d07245532 |
Taherzadeh and Ali were arrested on April 6 for allegedly impersonating federal officers for at least two years.
WASHINGTON — Editor's Note: The video above was published on April 11.
On Tuesday during an arraignment hearing, two men who are accused of impersonating federal officers, 40-year-old Arian Taherzadeh, and 35-year-old Haider Ali pleaded not guilty.
The pair were indicted by a grand jury in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on April 19 on charges of false impersonation of a federal officer and possessing a large-capacity ammunition device. The next court hearing for the defendants is June 28.
Additionally, prosecutors told the judge that during the search of the two men's homes, authorities recovered 79 digital devices including nine servers. Furthermore, the prosecutors noted that the devices were empty and that dozens of other devices are being reviewed.
WUSA9 is following this case and will provide more updates as more information becomes available.
Read more about this case:
RELATED: 2 men accused of impersonating federal officers indicted by grand jury | 2022-04-26T22:44:21Z | www.wusa9.com | Alleged federal officer impersonators plead not guilty | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/the-men-accused-of-impersonating-federal-officers-plead-not-guilty/65-e4732400-9db1-48e9-a7a7-8587c8d8a69e | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/the-men-accused-of-impersonating-federal-officers-plead-not-guilty/65-e4732400-9db1-48e9-a7a7-8587c8d8a69e |
Dr. Ronald K. Elfenbein is behind clinics at BWI airport and City of Praise Ministries.
LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, Md. — A chain of urgent care centers in Maryland continues to offer COVID testing and other services after the doctor in charge was indicted by a federal grand jury for alleged Medicare fraud totaling approximately $1.5 million.
Doctor Ronald K. Elfenbein operates COVID clinics at BWI airport and in Prince George’s County, according to the company’s website.
Elfenbein strongley denies the allegations.
The indictment claims Elfenbein, the owner of Dr’s ERgent Care LLC, of doing business as First Call Medical Center submitted bills to Medicare for services patients seeking COVID tests didn’t really need.
Elfenbein “required that the COVID-19 tests and the reporting of results be bundled,” according to the indictment.
Medicare was “billed in combination with more lucrative but medically unnecessary services…”, the indictment says.
Prosecutors claim Elfenbein said the services were the “bread and butter” of how we get paid.
FirstCall Medical Center also operated the COVID testing clinic at the City of Praise Ministries in Prince George’s County according to the company’s website.
In a written statement Elfenbein’s lawyer called him a “leading provider of COVID-19 testing and treatment to the community.”
“A trial, in this case, will prove not only that Dr. Elfenbein is innocent of the charges hastily brought by the government, but that during a time of unprecedented need, Dr. Elfenbein and his staff saved the lives of numerous Marylanders,” wrote attorney Michael Lawlor.
“Patients who are concerned that their insurer might have been billed for allegedly fraudulent services in their names might be able to detect the charges in their explanation of benefits or quarterly Medicare Summary Notice," according to a spokesperson for the US Attorney’s office in Maryland. "The government does not allege that any patients suffered any financial losses."
WATCH NEXT: Verify: How to spot a faked positive COVID test | 2022-04-26T22:44:27Z | www.wusa9.com | COVID clinic doctor denies Medicare fraud charges | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/covid-clinic-doctor-denies-medicare-fraud-charges/65-688e0c33-c64f-4f9e-adf4-66624c4374a1 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/covid-clinic-doctor-denies-medicare-fraud-charges/65-688e0c33-c64f-4f9e-adf4-66624c4374a1 |
The woman posed as the victim’s wife via a fraudulent ID card and withdrew an unknown amount of money from the victim’s accounts, police say.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. — Police say a woman who claimed to be the wife of a fraud victim has some explaining to do after she was caught using a fake ID card to take out an unknown amount of cash from his account at three different banks, on the same day.
Detectives from Montgomery County Police are investigating the series of fraud schemes that reportedly happened on Dec 13, 2021, at three different bank locations in the County.
Police have released surveillance footage of the woman who is a suspect in the case and are asking for the public's help.
The investigation began back in Dec. 2021, just before 1 p.m. when officers say the woman entered the SkyPoint Federal Credit Union in the 19700 block of Crystal Rock Dr. in Germantown. After she was inside she identified herself as the victim’s wife via a fraudulent ID card and took out an undisclosed amount of money from the victim’s account, she then left the bank after she got the money.
Detectives Continue to Investigate Series of Fraud Schemes; Surveillance Footage of Suspect Releasedhttps://t.co/10FaSbtzg9#fraud #mcpnews pic.twitter.com/NIaGQFSTyt
— Montgomery County Department of Police (@mcpnews) April 26, 2022
On the exact same day, about twenty minutes later, the woman arrived at the SkyPoint Federal Credit Union located on Colesville Rd. Police say she again showed the fake ID card and withdrew an undisclosed amount of money from the same victim’s account.
Then again, just before 2 p.m., the woman allegedly withdrew an unknown amount of money from the same victim's account at a SkyPoint Federal Credit Union Rockville Branch's location.
The woman has been described as a female, around 50 years old, medium build, blonde hair, wearing a brown scarf, black jacket, black jeans and black boots.
Anyone with information regarding this suspect or this crime is asked to call the 4th District Investigative Section at 240-773-5545 or 240-773-TIPS, or contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). A reward of up to $10,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest of the suspect.
RELATED: This Maryland couple was arrested for 3-month crime spree spanning 6 states, police say | 2022-04-27T03:15:45Z | www.wusa9.com | Woman pretends to man's spouse to take out cash from bank account | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/police-woman-money-three-banks-same-day/65-48ba4624-b345-4e60-b694-e61ce1212fe6 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/police-woman-money-three-banks-same-day/65-48ba4624-b345-4e60-b694-e61ce1212fe6 |
DCPS said students at Sousa Middle School, on Ely Place SE, had to be placed on lockdown for close to thirty minutes.
WASHINGTON — While Friday’s shooting in the Van Ness area of Upper Northwest D.C. grabbed headlines across the country, another shooting Tuesday in Southeast served as a reminder of what many other students in DC must deal with far too often.
Investigators say around 2:30 pm, a gunman opened fire on the 300 block of 37th Street Southeast in DC’s Fort Dupont neighborhood.
No one was injured in the incident, according to the Metropolitan Police Department. However, DC Public Schools said the Sousa Middle School, yards away, had to be placed on lockdown for 25 minutes at 2:20 pm.
The DCPS website shows more than 200 students attend the school. It typically lets students out for the day at 3:15 pm.
MPD is still on the lookout for suspects in connection to the case. The department could not answer when questioned as to how many bullets were fired during the shooting.
'I’m over this city. It’s time to go.' | We ran into Tammy as she was walking her young daughter home from school, in Fort Dupont, in SE DC. A shooting had just occurred outside her home, which is the same block where Sousa Middle School is located. 🧵 (@wusa9) pic.twitter.com/mjkKoS0DIc
However, at least 87 evidence markers were apparent at the crime scene next to the school. Evidence markers are typically used by law enforcement to count bullet shell casings, among other things.
“Gun violence has been plaguing the Ward 7 community since before COVID-19,” said local ANC commissioner Racquel Codling. “The rise in shootings is alarming and traumatizing to our community. Our young people shouldn’t have their learning interrupted because of a shooting.”
Codling says the District needs to invest more in violence interruption programs and provide more opportunities that lead to employment and housing.
“Creating a safe community we can be proud to call home is a responsibility that must be shared between community, government, business, and the faith-based community,” Codling said.
MPD data shows seven violent crimes have taken place within 1,000 feet of Sousa Middle School this year. Only one other D.C. middle school has seen more violent crime, in a similar radius: Johnson Middle School, which is also east of the Anacostia River.
Violent Crime | Unfortunately, violent crime around Sousa Middle School is not new. We looked at DC Police data. It shows 7 violent crimes have occurred w/i 1,000 ft of the school year-to-date. The only school that tops it is also in SE DC. (@wusa9) pic.twitter.com/bQQPZvT66U
It is a very different story for students in Upper Northwest D.C. The two middle schools there, Deal and Hardy, have not experienced any nearby violent crime in 2022.
“Tammy”, a parent who lives near Sousa Middle School, happened upon Tuesday’s crime scene while walking her young daughter from another nearby school. She said she was disappointed her daughter had to be exposed to more violence.
“It’s upsetting and it’s right in front of my building, right in front of my window,” Tammy said.
However, she said she was not surprised by the crime given the prevalence of violence in the area. She said she is considering making a change.
“I’m over this city,” she said. “It’s time to go.” | 2022-04-27T03:15:52Z | www.wusa9.com | SE DC school placed on lockdown after shooting behind campus | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/southeast-dc-school-lockdown-shooting-unfolds-behind-campus/65-0f425e25-1a73-4a16-bd4d-3d6ab5c99bab | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/southeast-dc-school-lockdown-shooting-unfolds-behind-campus/65-0f425e25-1a73-4a16-bd4d-3d6ab5c99bab |
A parent reported that a student was singled out by coaches and was injured while running through a "gauntlet/tunnel," at West Potomac High School.
A letter was sent to parents on Friday from the principal of West Potomac High School informing them that the head varsity soccer coach had been fired following an alleged hazing incident.
Three coaches total, including the head varsity soccer coach, Ahmad Sasso, were fired after the leadership of the high school learned about the incident.
A parent reported that an unidentified student was singled out by coaches and was injured while running through a "gauntlet/tunnel," according to the letter. WUSA9 does not yet know details pertaining to the injuries the student experienced.
The principal further acknowledged that they met with the soccer team to discuss the situation that occurred to "hear their concerns, answer questions and clarify how we will move forward from here, as a team and as a soccer family."
The principal stated that the school is working with the assistant coaches to have a seamless transition and to finish the season strong.
A spokesperson from Fairfax County Public Schools stated:
"FCPS does not tolerate this kind of treatment of our students. As soon as the principal was aware, the appropriate action was taken.”
RELATED: ‘Alarming levels’ of antisemitic incidents across DMV, ADL audit shows | 2022-04-27T03:15:58Z | www.wusa9.com | Coaches fired for alleged hazing incident in Fairfax County | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/3-coaches-fired-in-fairfax-county-for-alleged-hazing-incident/65-32955b32-c07c-4d7f-b8f2-ce968c09cb4d | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/3-coaches-fired-in-fairfax-county-for-alleged-hazing-incident/65-32955b32-c07c-4d7f-b8f2-ce968c09cb4d |
Police believe a 15-year-old and 14-year-old both overdosed after taking the laced drugs, but toxicology results are pending.
WOODBRIDGE, Va. — Editor's Note: The video above originally aired on April 21.
The Prince William County Police Department is warning the community that drugs laced with fentanyl have been found in the community, following the death of two teens within 48 hours.
Police said a 15-year-old died Sunday in Woodbridge and a 14-year-old died Tuesday in Dale City. Both deaths appear to be connected to counterfeit percocet -- known as "Perc30" -- laced with fentanyl, police said. The official cause of death is pending toxicology results from the medical examiner's office.
"While the investigations into the two recent deaths are ongoing, investigators have strong suspicions the victims overdosed after having consumed the fentanyl-laced narcotic," First Sergeant Jonathan Perok wrote in a press release from PWPD.
Percocet is a pain reliever usually containing oxycodone and acetaminophen.
"The Police Department recognizes our youth population as most susceptible to peer influence and pressures," Perok wrote. "We implore parents and guardians to take immediate action to actively engage with their children and loved ones as soon as possible about the dangers of drug use and encourage constructive dialogue to prevent further deaths and illness."
Overdose deaths reached a grim milestone in the U.S. with more than 100,000 killed in 2021, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In most cases, the highly potent synthetic opioid fentanyl was the driving force. Health experts continue to see a trend of deadly overdoses involving multiple substances in a drug user's system.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid and form of medicine that when prescribed is used to treat patients for severe pain typically after surgery, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Additionally, NIH said it can be “used to treat patients with chronic pain who are physically tolerant to other opioids." Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. NIH says that synthetic opioids are the most common drugs that are involved in drug overdoses.
This is not the first instance of fentanyl-related overdoses in the DMV. In early April, The Metropolitan Police Department responded to 17 overdoses in a three-day period, leaving 10 people dead. DC Police said they linked the overdoses to a "bad batch" of cocaine mixed with "suspected fentanyl." In late February, six people were sent to the hospital after a "mass overdose" incident at an apartment in Falls Church, according to Fairfax County Police. Nine people died after 14 suspected narcotic overdoses were reported on Jan. 28, 2022 in Southwest,
D.C. Police said opioid-related overdoses killed more than 420 people in the District.in 2021.
D.C.'s director of Behavioral Health put out a video following the overdoses on how to tell if someone may be experiencing an overdose.
Naloxone, commonly called NARCAN, is the best solution to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
Under the law in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, if someone does have an adverse reaction to Naloxone, the person helping them would not be liable in civil damages for any act or omission, not constituting gross negligence, in the course of rendering such care or assistance.
In D.C., individuals can text LiveLongDC to 888-811 to find free Naloxone without a prescription or ID, and it can be delivered.
There are also many tools used across the country to help curb the growing overdose problem, including the use of fentanyl strips. By placing a small sample of the drug in question in a small cup or cap filled with water, the strip can determine if it contains fentanyl. If the soaked strip reveals two lines, fentanyl is positive. One line indicates a negative result.
A woman who wished to remain anonymous told WUSA9 a fentanyl strip obtained through the Arlington County Department of Human Services saved her life late last year.
"When I used it on Halloween, six of the bags I had, two of them were fentanyl and I threw them away," the client said. "If I had not had those strips, I probably would have gone through the last two bags and I probably wouldn't be here right now. Addiction is a brain disease. The strips are not coming to us for us to get high, it's letting us know they have our back."
The woman is currently receiving recovery treatment services in Arlington. | 2022-04-27T18:35:34Z | www.wusa9.com | 2 teen deaths linked to percocet laced with fentanyl | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/teen-deaths-linked-to-percocet-laced-with-fentanyl/65-2349c46d-5ae2-4cbc-8ade-58a2132d5929 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/teen-deaths-linked-to-percocet-laced-with-fentanyl/65-2349c46d-5ae2-4cbc-8ade-58a2132d5929 |
The package is expected to create 6,000 affordable, new units statewide.
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan announced Wednesday that a new affordable housing package is set to roll out, which will include a flurry of financing tools and new programs opening access to more affordable units across the state.
The package is expected to create a total of 6,000 units and preserve more than 22,000. The development comes amid rising construction costs and interest rates across the state.
“To continue to build on these accomplishments, we are meeting the challenges created during the pandemic head-on with a responsive set of tools to address shortfalls and create new housing opportunities," Hogan said.
In addition, in order to address the shortfalls for affordable housing projects, the administration has also announced the following updates and new programs:
Increasing the Rental Housing Financing Program funds available for the 2022 competitive application round, -- to be announced later this year.
Establishing the Multifamily Capital Fund which will provide additional financing in Fiscal Year 2023 for projects related to the State of Maryland’s economic growth and development activities and initiatives. | 2022-04-27T18:35:40Z | www.wusa9.com | Hogan: Thousands of affordable housing units coming to Maryland | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/affordable-housing-maryland-gov-larry-hogan-announces-200-million-package/65-923b7a4f-5b43-4115-8014-902fffcd8000 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/affordable-housing-maryland-gov-larry-hogan-announces-200-million-package/65-923b7a4f-5b43-4115-8014-902fffcd8000 |
Dick Saslaw is leading the effort to bring the team's new stadium to the Commonwealth.
RICHMOND, Va. — Plans for a Washington Commanders stadium in Virginia, funded partly by taxpayers, took a hit with news the state’s attorney general has now opened a formal inquiry into allegations of financial wrongdoing by the team.
Wednesday, State Senator Dick Saslaw, who represents parts of Fairfax County and is leading the effort to bring the Commanders to Northern Virginia, had choice words when asked about that investigation and its potential impact on the stadium bill’s future.
“That’s all publicity crap,” Saslaw said as he walked out of a Senate Finance Committee meeting.
Saslaw couldn’t hide his contempt for the latest investigation into Commanders owner Daniel Snyder. This one by the attorney general of his own state, Jason Miyares.
“I'm sorry that Senator Saslaw thinks that an allegation, and it's just an allegation, of over $5 million potentially defrauded from season ticket holders, many of which are Virginians is, in his words, just quote crap,” Miyares said. “He's entitled to his opinion. He's not entitled to his own facts. We're gonna go over the facts lead us.”
Miyares sent a letter to the team saying he planned to investigate allegations of financial wrongdoing reported to the United States House of Representatives Committee on Oversight and Reform, which includes allegations the team withheld security deposits from season ticket holders and ticket revenue from other NFL owners.
In the letter, Miyares writes:
“I view it as my responsibility to carefully examine the material facts regarding this matter...”
“I request full cooperation and transparency from the team."
The Attorney General’s Office of the District of Columbia has initiated a similar investigation. The Commanders deny wrongdoing.
“We have communicated with the Washington Commanders, and they've indicated they are going to be cooperating, and be forthright with us,” Miyares said. “As far as a timeline, I've been very explicit with my team, this is a measure twice, cut once moment. We're not on anyone's timeline, we're certainly not under the timeline of the General Assembly and any piece of legislation that may or may not come forth.
“Our job is to find out where the facts are and get to the truth.
Miryares's inquiry comes on the heels of investigations into sexual harassment in the team’s front office by Congress and the NFL and calls into question the future of the stadium financing bill still being debated here at the state legislature in Richmond, which represents Commanders owner Daniel Snyder’s last, best chance for any sort of public money to help him pay for his stadium project.
Saslaw wouldn’t say exactly why he recently amended his stadium funding bill by slashing the amount of money Virginia would offer Snyder from a billion dollars to roughly $300 million. But last month, one State Senator, who asked not to be identified so that he could speak freely on the issue, told WUSA9 “Public reaction to this project has been underwhelming. With every passing day, it’s evident the team lacks gravity.”
State Senator Janet Howell represents parts of Fairfax and Arlington Counties, and has opposed the Commanders stadium bill from the start and says the AG’s investigation could hamper the stadium financing legislation’s passage.
“It certainly hasn’t helped it has it?” Howell said. “Most women and reasonable men are appalled by (Snyder’s) actions.”
Saslaw said even at $300 million his stadium financing package would offer Snyder far less public money than most of the past 21 stadium deals nationally. And the latest investigation into the team’s workplace culture would not stop him from trying to push it through.
When asked if he still planned to ensure the stadium funding bill passed the state legislature before the special session ends, Saslaw said “We’ll do our best.”
Maryland has pledged to invest $400 million in the area around the team’s current stadium in Landover in an effort to convince the team to build there but has refused to offer any taxpayer money for the stadium itself.
Unlike Virginia and Maryland, there are no formal plans to bring the Commanders Stadium back to D.C.
WATCH NEXT: Commanders respond to congressional allegations of financial impropriety
Former FTC official says the agency is unlikely to take direct action against Snyder, investigating NFL revenue sharing allegations "not a good use of taxpayer resources." | 2022-04-27T23:06:33Z | www.wusa9.com | Virginia Senator calls Commanders Investigation 'publicity crap' | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/nfl/washington-commanders/washington-commanders-stadium-virginia-stadium-financing-bill-daniel-snyder/65-ac8aed0d-6850-4f1f-a82c-6942572bdbf3 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/nfl/washington-commanders/washington-commanders-stadium-virginia-stadium-financing-bill-daniel-snyder/65-ac8aed0d-6850-4f1f-a82c-6942572bdbf3 |
Freeze Warning north and west of D.C. overnight
Fairfax County budget approved by Board of Supervisors provides some tax relief
Officials claim the rate reduction will offset rising property values, however, the average tax bill will increase by $465, or 6.7% over last year.
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved a 2023 budget Tuesday that included some tax relief, a demand many living in the county had been calling for.
According to the Fairfax County government website, the nearly $200 million in revenue reductions were included in the budget to support the tax relief, including a new $1.11 tax rate. Officials say the change will cause a decrease in more than $88 million in revenue.
Another tax relief measure from the board included assessing vehicles at 85% of market value, a move the board claims will save taxpayers a total of $98 million.
"High consumer demand for new and used cars, and low supply due to the pandemic, have driven vehicle values up on average by 33% since Jan. 1," the county website reads.
Additionally, businesses like crafter breweries will receive lower Machinery and Tools Taxes. The board says the rate was slashed from $4.57 to $2 per $100 of assessed value, for a total of $1 million in tax relief.
The budget was passed with a 9-1 vote. Supervisor Pat Herrity was the lone vote against the 2023 budget.
Herrity said while the budget contains a $.03 reduction in the tax rate, he claims it is the most significant increase in real estate taxes since 2006.
"I cannot support a budget with this significant of a tax increase, especially at a time when our residents and businesses are dealing with the impacts of the pandemic, high gas prices, rising inflation, rising interest rates, and uncertainty caused by a war in Europe," said Herrity in a statement following the board's decision.
VERIFY: Do squatters have rights in Virginia?
WATCH NEXT: Pay raises for Virginia police could mean tax hikes for homeowners | VERIFY | 2022-04-28T03:40:53Z | www.wusa9.com | Approved Fairfax County budget provides some tax relief | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/fairfax-county-budget-approved-board-supervisors-features-some-tax-relief/65-f2aefee6-1136-45e4-aee9-1ccd577cc261 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/fairfax-county-budget-approved-board-supervisors-features-some-tax-relief/65-f2aefee6-1136-45e4-aee9-1ccd577cc261 |
In two separate incidents Wednesday, two groups of juveniles took people’s cars and sped off with dogs in the back.
WASHINGTON — Two groups of juveniles have been arrested and four dogs have been recovered after two incidents, with many similarities, happened Wednesday.
Around 12:30 p.m., DC Police received a report of carjacking by force on Eastern Avenue, Northeast. Police say the trio took a 2013 Honda with two service dogs inside and sped off into Maryland.
A bystander reported to police they saw the gray Honda collide with the curb on a nearby residential street in Cheverly, at which point the group got out and ran away from the car, leaving the dogs behind.
Police soon recovered the car and both dogs were reunited with their owners. The juveniles were all tracked down and identified. They are now being charged in both Maryland and D.C.
Minutes before the first group of juveniles took someone’s car, two other 15-year-old suspects are accused of assaulting a victim and taking the victim’s car keys in the 2000 block of 12th Street, Northwest. Police then said the pair took off in the car, which had two dogs inside. Both boys have been arrested in Prince George’s County and are awaiting charges in D.C.
The two dogs have also been safely recovered.
A few weeks earlier, Bruno, a 14-month-old French bulldog, was stolen at gunpoint from his owner on the 5400 block of Kansas Avenue Northwest while out on a walk. That same day, an 11-week-old Australian Shepherd, Pablo, had been stolen while out on a walk with his owner in the Shaw neighborhood. Pablo was found and safely returned to his family, and police said 43 teens were arrested connected to that case.
Bruno is still missing, and his owner is actively seeking any information.
“The further that time slips away from me, I get a little discouraged,” owner Jamaica Harvey said. "I appreciate the support. We still have to find Bruno."
It’s been exactly 2 weeks since Bruno was stolen at gun point ! LETS GET BRUNO HOME TODAY , I need you to retweet as many times and post in your neighborhood! https://t.co/ohUZzTf6oW
— Jamaica harvey (@FindBrunoMom) April 27, 2022 | 2022-04-28T14:41:41Z | www.wusa9.com | 4 dogs recovered after 5 juveniles arrested in carjackings | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-4-dogs-recovered-after-5-juveniles-arrested-for-carjacking-robbery/65-fce2d44e-ee10-4b20-a7eb-8b4d4c148e6f | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-4-dogs-recovered-after-5-juveniles-arrested-for-carjacking-robbery/65-fce2d44e-ee10-4b20-a7eb-8b4d4c148e6f |
Officials are saying that a number of individuals have been exposed who came in contact with the goats at Georges Mill Farm in Lovettsville.
LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. — The Loudoun County Health Department is asking the public to be on alert after several people experienced diarrhea and other illness symptoms after coming into contact with petting goats at a Loudoun farm.
Officials are saying that a number of individuals who came in contact with the goats at Georges Mill Farm in Lovettsville between March 6 and April 20, 2022, have been exposed to a specific type of bacterium, called Shiga Toxi, which produces E. coli.
Officials added that the bacterium was isolated and identified by the Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services.
“People should remember that, while animal interactions can be fun and educational, it’s always important to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals, such as washing your hands after being in contact with animals,” the health department stated, adding that they have already been in contact with those who had interacted with the goats.
The department said that anyone who had contact with these goats during this time frame and has not yet communicated with the health department should:
Monitor for illness and seek medical attention if you become ill. Let your health care provider know of your possible exposure to assist in your diagnosis and treatment.
Officials said that symptoms of E. coli illness usually start two to four days after exposure, but can occur as soon as 12 hours later, or as long as 10 days after exposure. Symptoms could include:
More specific information on E. coli, including STEC, is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention here.
The department said that staff at the farm assisted them in identifying who could be at risk of illness and how to prevent future infections.
The department also confirmed that there is no evidence of ongoing risk to visitors at Georges Mill Farm, however, the farm has specified on their website that baby goat visiting and bottle feeding are closed for the rest of the year.
Health officials remind the public that there are steps they can take to help prevent contracting illnesses from animals. “Every year, many people get sick after visiting animal exhibits, such as petting zoos, aquariums, farms, or fairs,” they said. Preventive steps to take include:
Wash your hands right after touching animals or anything in the areas where they live, roam or eat. Even if you didn’t touch the animals or wore gloves, wash your hands when you leave animal areas.
Running water and soap is best, but if they are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and wash your hands with soap and running water as soon as you can.
Don’t eat or drink around animals and keep food and drinks away from animal areas.
Officials also added that children 5 years of age and younger, people with weakened immune systems and adults over 65 years of age are more likely to get sick from the germs animals can carry and should take extra precautions at animal exhibits.
Officials advise people to take these extra precautions for children:
Always supervise children around animals.
Leave items such as strollers, pacifiers, cups, or toys outside the exhibit.
Don’t let children put their thumbs, fingers, or objects such as pacifiers in their mouths when they’re around animals or in an animal area.
Don’t let children sit or play on the ground in animal areas.
Teach children to approach animals with caution and follow the rules provided on signs or verbally by the staff.
Children 5 years of age and younger should not have contact with reptiles, amphibians, or live poultry because these animals are more likely to make them sick. Parents of children in this age group should also consider not letting the children have direct contact with other types of livestock. | 2022-04-28T18:23:02Z | www.wusa9.com | Petting goats expose group to E.coli at Loudoun Co. farm | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/virginia-e-coli-at-loudoun-goat-farm-georges-mill-lovettsville/65-29dc74fe-3b2e-426f-843a-d3218edff7ba | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/virginia-e-coli-at-loudoun-goat-farm-georges-mill-lovettsville/65-29dc74fe-3b2e-426f-843a-d3218edff7ba |
Maryland had 16 heat-related deaths in 2021. Montgomery County is one of 14 areas in the nation selected by NOAA to monitor locations vulnerable to heat.
Author: Miri Marshall
WASHINGTON — When the summer heat hits it can be brutal. On average, heat has been the number one weather-related killer in the United States for the last 30 years.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is trying to cool that trend by identifying and monitoring the areas most vulnerable to heat. The "Urban Heat Mapping Campaign" will use heat data from 14 regions around the country and two international cities. This year Montgomery County has been selected as one of the 14 areas around the country to participate.
Montgomery County is looking for people to join the campaign. Volunteers will use heat sensors mounted onto their cars as they travel their neighborhoods on one of the hottest days of the year. The sensors will record temperature, humidity, time, and location.
“These local maps will help us identify where we can take action to protect vulnerable neighborhoods now and in the future from extreme heat risk,” Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich said. “We are pleased to be participating in this nationally competitive program and continuing our work in Montgomery County toward equitable climate resilience.”
RELATED: NASA will fly your name to space - Here's how
Residents can sign up to be a "street scientist" in the heat mapping project by going to the MyGreenMontgomery.org website.
Urban Heat Islands are areas that are hotter than nearby neighborhoods due to buildings, pavement, and other parts of urban environments. These areas are warmer because pavement, concrete and buildings absorb and emit the sun's heat more than vegetated and rural type areas.
Urban heat islands can put people at heightened risk of illness and death during extreme heat events.
Montgomery County officials said the heat mapping campaign will allow local climate scientists and residents to work together to identify the hottest areas in the county.
There was a total of 16 heat-related deaths in Maryland in 2021 during the heat monitoring period.
RELATED: How food waste is contributing to climate change and what Is being done to help | 2022-04-28T18:23:15Z | www.wusa9.com | Montgomery County selected for heat tracking program with NOAA | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/weather/montgomery-county-selected-for-urban-heat-mapping-program/65-98958ec3-7b6d-45f2-9e01-a9cf9ce10313 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/weather/montgomery-county-selected-for-urban-heat-mapping-program/65-98958ec3-7b6d-45f2-9e01-a9cf9ce10313 |
Thomas Webster said he was defending himself when he repeatedly swung a metal pole at an officer and then tackled him to the ground.
WASHINGTON — A contentious afternoon of questioning prompted the federal judge presiding over ex-NYPD officer Thomas Webster’s trial to assign both sides “homework” Thursday. In short: Get it together.
Webster took the stand in his own defense Thursday morning at his trial on multiple charges in connection with the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, including felony counts of civil disorder and assaulting police with a dangerous weapon.
Jurors heard two days of testimony earlier in the week from U.S. Capitol and D.C. Metropolitan Police officers, who talked about being outnumbered and overwhelmed by the pro-Trump crowd on Jan. 6. DC Police Officer Noah Rathbun testified that he was assigned to the department’s mountain bike unit, but deployed along with many others to the Capitol to assist beleaguered Capitol police that day. He was standing along the police perimeter near the inaugural stage on the west side of the Capitol when Webster pushed his way through the crowd and began berating police and shoving a bike rack barrier against them.
Rathbun eventually wound up on the ground after Webster tackled him and attempted to rip off his helmet and gas mask. He testified that at that point he was fearful for his safety.
“I couldn’t see any other officers in the area, so I was scared,” Rathbun said.
Webster’s telling of events on Thursday was markedly different. After going over his background as a U.S. Marine and NYPD officer of 20 years, Webster told jurors he traveled to D.C. on Jan. 6 as a supporter of former President Donald Trump hoping to convince Congress to “take another look” at the 2020 election. He eventually made his way to the U.S. Capitol, where, he claimed, he saw children and families crying and an elderly couple walking away with blood on the wife’s face. He claimed that was what “upset” him and drove him to push through the massive crowd to the front lines, where police were maintaining a tentative bike rack perimeter.
Over the course of that trip to the front – which took more than 20 minutes and involved scaling a waist-high wall at one point – Webster said he set three rules for himself. He would leave if he saw a restricted area sign, if he heard an announcement or if an officer told him to leave. Assistant U.S. attorney Katherine Nielsen would later bring those self-professed rules back up during cross-examination – getting Webster to admit he had seen flashbangs going off and smelled tear gas as he made his way to the front.
Webster testified that he is “programmed” to help when he sees people getting hurt, and that explained him going to the front lines. When he arrived, however, Rathbun’s bodyworn camera video shows Webster was already irate and immediately began screaming at officers and shoving the metal bike racks against him. During cross-examination, Nielsen pointed out Webster began hitting at officers and the bike racks with a metal flag pole he was carrying within 20 seconds of getting to the front line.
Webster explained that by saying Rathbun had made a “bring it on” hand gesture inviting him to cross the barrier and fight him. Rathbun’s bodycam video doesn’t show the gesture, but Webster’s attorney, James E. Monroe, has claimed a blurry cell phone video taken from someone above on the Lower West Terrace does. Webster also accused Rathbun, who served as a U.S. Navy Corpsman prior to joining the DC Police Department, of taking one look at the Marine Corps flag he was carrying and deciding to fight him.
Under questioning from Monroe, Webster testified that he’d served at many crowd control events during his 20 years as a housing officer in NYC and then during his time on former Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s security detail. Webster said he had been trained on de-escalation techniques and on how not to respond to taunts from protestors, and that he thought Rathbun had failed to employ them. He repeatedly referred to Rathbun as a “rogue cop” and claimed he had incited the whole confrontation.
“You’ve got to de-escalate,” Webster said. “I gave him all the answers. That flag… he’s a Navy corpsman. In the Marine Corps, we treat Navy corpsmen like our mothers. If he’d said, hey man, I’m a Navy corpsman, I would have hugged him.”
Webster’s account of the contact Rathbun made with his face also differed greatly from what jurors had heard and seen earlier in the week. Rathbun’s bodyworn camera footage shows his left hand made brief, open-palm contact with the right side of Webster’s face while Webster was shoving the bike rack. Webster described that contact variously as being “violating,” like “getting hit by a hammer” and “like a freight train.” He claimed to have thought he might have suffered a concussion.
Thomas Webster testified today that he put his hands on DC Police Officer Noah Rathbun's face (see below) in order to show him he wasn't trying to hurt him. Rathbun testified that Webster attempted to rip off his helmet and gas mask, choking him in the process. pic.twitter.com/S8hIFT5b9n
Later, in a combative back-and-forth with Nielsen, Webster identified the only visible mark on his face after the altercation as being a cut on his lower left lip, despite the force he claimed from Rathbun’s blow. Webster claimed Rathbun had punched him in the jaw after he tackled the DC Police officer to the ground although, like other claims he made Thursday, no video was entered in the case showing it.
No stranger to the witness stand thanks to his two decades as a NYC police officer, Webster appeared relaxed while testifying. He spoke to the jury, rather than his attorney, when asked questions and adopted an almost folksy demeanor at times. Although his service in the Marine Corps lasted four years in the mid-80s, far less than the 20 years he spent as a police officer, he found opportunities to mention it in the majority of his answers – referring to himself on multiple occasions as a “military guy,” a “proud Marine” and “just a jarhead.”
Webster's testimony was also often inconsistent. He at first described the flagpole he'd brought to the Capitol as "super light." His attorney referred to it repeatedly as hollow aluminum. But once Rathbun had wrested control of it, Webster said he became scared of the pole.
"I was concerned about what he was going to do with that pole," Webster said.
Webster also played up his physicality at points while downplaying it at others. He said he shoved the bike rack at officers to show them he could easily push his way through it "like a farm gate" and, after noting he'd played sports when he was younger, said he came at Rathbun "like an old-school football player." But under questioning from Nielsen, he suggested the officer had just fallen down and claimed repeatedly to have been scared of the much smaller man.
Webster’s comfort while testifying and message discipline proved frustrating for Nielsen, who could not get him to concede he’d used his flagpole as a weapon – despite video clearly showing him repeatedly swinging it at Rathbun and a USCP officer. Webster’s evasive answers eventually prompted an admonition from the judge, who told him to answer the questions presented to him and Nielsen to pose her questions more directly.
Testimony ended for the day with cross-examination still unfinished. After jurors left the room, a visibly frustrated U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta told both sides he expected to come back Friday and do things “the right way.” In addition to redirect questions for Webster, Monroe was expected to call three character witnesses on his client’s behalf before resting his case.
We're tracking all of the arrests, charges and investigations into the January 6 assault on the Capitol. Sign up for our Capitol Breach Newsletter here so that you never miss an update.] | 2022-04-28T21:48:16Z | www.wusa9.com | Ex-NYC cop blames DC Police officer for assault on Jan. 6 | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/national/capitol-riots/ex-nypd-officer-takes-stand-blames-dc-cop-for-inciting-assault-during-capitol-riot-thomas-webster-jan-6-trump-marine-noah-rathbun-james-monroe/65-4e438b6b-2870-4b88-a472-f1e72185bdf7 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/national/capitol-riots/ex-nypd-officer-takes-stand-blames-dc-cop-for-inciting-assault-during-capitol-riot-thomas-webster-jan-6-trump-marine-noah-rathbun-james-monroe/65-4e438b6b-2870-4b88-a472-f1e72185bdf7 |
Howard County student stabs classmate in parking lot, police say
A 17-year-old student stabbed an 18-year-old in a parking lot outside Long Reach High School in Columbia, Maryland.
WASHINGTON — Police say a student was stabbed by a classmate in the parking lot of Long Reach High School in Columbia, Md. on Thursday.
According to a statement from Howard County Police Department, an 18-year-old man was injured in the stabbing and was taken in an ambulance to Maryland Shock Trauma. Police were called to the scene at around 11 a.m. and a school resource officer (SRO) was on scene who provided medical aid to the student stabbed in "less than a minute."
Police say a 17-year-old boy is wanted in connection with the stabbing. The 17-year-old drove from the scene after the stabbing. Police did not provide a description of the vehicle he was driving.
The stabbing occurred following "an altercation" between the two students, police say. Police did not provide more specifics about the reason for the altercation.
WUSA9 reached out to Howard County Public Schools for comment but did not receive a response by the time this story was published.
Police said the school was in a "modified lowdown" amid the investigation.
The 18-year-old who was stabbed has serious injuries, police said, adding he is in "stable condition." | 2022-04-28T23:28:53Z | www.wusa9.com | Police: Student stabbed by classmate in school parking lot | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/howard-county-student-stabs-classmate-in-parking-lot/65-ff71e9e6-3e4d-440b-b6dc-35c0d46b4111 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/howard-county-student-stabs-classmate-in-parking-lot/65-ff71e9e6-3e4d-440b-b6dc-35c0d46b4111 |
Detectives arrested 17-year-old Eugene Williams Thursday, more than two months after Francis was shot and killed.
WASHINGTON — Police have arrested a 17-year-old boy in connection to the shooting death of 16-year-old DeShawn Francis.
Francis was found shot in a parked car in the Unit block of Chesapeake Street just after 8 p.m. on Feb. 11, 2022. Officers say he was taken to a nearby hospital where he later died from his injuries.
A "Shot Spotter," which is a device used by police to catch the sound of gunfire, caught 19 rounds being fired in the area, according to a police report.
RELATED: 16-year-old left dead after ShotSpotter captures nearly 20 gunshots in Southeast, police say
Williams has been charged as an adult with First Degree Murder while Armed.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Metropolitan Police Department at (202) 727-9099 or send an anonymous tip to the department's text tip line at 50411.
WATCH NEXT: Philly bouncer wanted in death of DC man turns himself in to police
Surveillance video captured the encounter outside the Tabu Bar & Lounge in Philadelphia on April 16. | 2022-04-29T02:37:20Z | www.wusa9.com | DC Police make arrest in shooting death of 16-year-old | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/teen-arrested-shooting-death-16-year-old-deshawn-francis/65-b475ba84-e930-40ed-aa31-cb80a38f18e0 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/teen-arrested-shooting-death-16-year-old-deshawn-francis/65-b475ba84-e930-40ed-aa31-cb80a38f18e0 |
During the incident, the ex-girlfriend was stabbed 20 times and her mother was stabbed 10 times.
LA PLATA, Md. — Editor's Note: The video above was published April 27, 2022.
A man from La Plata, Maryland was sentenced to 40 years in prison on Thursday for attempting to murder his ex-girlfriend’s mother back in 2019.
Deon Johnson, 26, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for attempted second-degree murder, two counts of first-degree assault, fourth-degree burglary and Failure to comply with Peace Order. Johnson also received 15 years of suspended time and will have supervised probation for five years.
During the attack, Johnson’s ex-girlfriend was stabbed 20 times and her mother was stabbed 10 times.
In 2019 officers responded to a report of a break-in at a home on the 2700 block of Port Tobacco Road in Nanjemoy. According to a release, as an officer was approaching the house when they witnessed Johnson running away.
One of the victims, Johnson’s ex-girlfriend, was suffering from stab wounds on the head and shoulder and her mother was suffering from a stab wound on the neck. According to the release, both the ex-girlfriend and her mother were flown to Prince George’s County hospital to be treated for their injuries; both survived.
Furthermore, an investigation revealed that the romantic relationship between Johnson and his ex-girlfriend ended the day before the attack. On the day of the attack, Johnson broke into the house through a window and began to stab the ex-girlfriend’s mother multiple times.
The ex-girlfriend attempted to get help from her neighbors, according to the release but failed after Johnson caught up to her and attempted to force her to leave with him, according to the release.
Johnson then started to stab his ex-girlfriend repeatedly as police sirens were heard coming in the distance. Police found Johnson standing over his ex-girlfriend as they arrived and he ran to the woods, according to the release.
Officials say Johnson also left his phone, prybar and bookbag at the house.
RELATED: Two Maryland State Police Troopers injured after car crash | 2022-04-29T04:14:08Z | www.wusa9.com | Man faces 40 years in prison for attempted murder | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-man-sentenced-to-40-years-in-prison-for-attempting-to-murder-ex-girlfriends-mom/65-00af3ed1-28c2-41f6-8746-2c2a8bfd90ee | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-man-sentenced-to-40-years-in-prison-for-attempting-to-murder-ex-girlfriends-mom/65-00af3ed1-28c2-41f6-8746-2c2a8bfd90ee |
a 16-year-old male was traveling at more than 80 mph in the 35-mph speed zone when they crashed into three other cars.
MCLEAN, Va. — Editors note: The video above is from a story WUSA9 did on April 20, 2022.
Police have arrested a 16-year-old boy for involuntary manslaughter after officers say he was involved in a three-vehicle crash that killed 62-year-old Karla Boggess.
Detectives determined the 16-year-old driver in the 2020 Audi A5 was traveling at around 80-mph in a 35-mph speed zone.
Virginia has had its highest crash fatality rate, crashes have increased across various categories, including speed-related fatalities. According to police, this is the first non-pedestrian-related fatality in Fairfax County in 2022.
On March 9, Fairfax Police Officers responded to a crash around 3 p.m. in the 8800 block of Georgetown Pike involving three cars.
The teen driving the 2020 Audi A5 was traveling west on Georgetown Pike. Boggess, the driver of a 2005 Nissan Sentra, and the driver of a 1991 Toyota MR5 were both traveling east on Georgetown Pike.
The teen reportedly lost control of his car, crossed the double yellow lines and hit the Nissan head-on, according to officials. The teen then spun out into the path of the Toyota, causing the Toyota to rear-end the Audi.
Juvenile charged with involuntary manslaughter for McLean crash. https://t.co/jIEp4RNtUt pic.twitter.com/R9l1kZTk7X
— Fairfax County Police (@FairfaxCountyPD) April 27, 2022
The teen driving the Audi was treated for injuries at the scene of the crash. The driver of the Toyota was taken to the hospital for injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
The driver of the Nissan, Boggess, of Berryville, VA was taken to the hospital where sadly succumbed to her injuries four days after the crash.
The teenager was taken to the Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center where he was held.
The Victim Services Division has been assigned to this case to ensure the victim’s family is receiving appropriate resources and assistance. | 2022-04-29T04:14:14Z | www.wusa9.com | Teen charged with involuntary manslaughter in a fatal crash | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/juvenile-charged-with-involuntary-manslaughter-after-a-fatal-crash/65-d20f7ed0-4681-43a6-8751-fddf2fb2a9af | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/juvenile-charged-with-involuntary-manslaughter-after-a-fatal-crash/65-d20f7ed0-4681-43a6-8751-fddf2fb2a9af |
Teens steal 2 dogs in DC carjacking, assault woman, police say
Police said that the search warrant helped them find numerous rounds of ammunition, multiple caliber regulated firearms and parts to manufacture a rifle.
LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — A Lexington Park 19-year-old has been arrested after a search of his home in early April resulted in a number of charges, according to police.
In February 2022, officials from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Division began an investigation into the distribution, transferring, manufacturing, and purchasing of firearms to minors.
According to police, Maryland law defines a minor, for the purposes of regulated firearms, as anyone under the age of 21. Maryland law prohibits any person under the age of 21 from possessing/selling any regulated firearm.
On April 7, officials searched the man’s home in the 46000 block of Midway Drive after obtaining a warrant, which led them to the discovery of numerous rounds of ammunition, multiple caliber regulated firearms and parts to manufacture a rifle.
Last week on April 22, Keyshawn Green was arrested and charged with a host of crimes, including:
Green is currently incarcerated at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center in Leonardtown on a no-bond status.
Citizens who may have any information on this case can remain anonymous and contact Crime Solvers at (301) 475-3333, or text a tip to “TIP239” or their message to “CRIMES” (274637).
Through the Crime Solvers Program, tipsters are eligible for an award of up to $1,000 for information about a crime in St. Mary’s County that leads to an arrest or indictment. | 2022-04-29T11:07:29Z | www.wusa9.com | MD man arrested for possession, selling guns to minors | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-lexington-park-19-year-old-arrested-for-selling-guns-to-minors/65-455acbe8-79ed-4b4a-8ae7-11a542d4eb4b | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-lexington-park-19-year-old-arrested-for-selling-guns-to-minors/65-455acbe8-79ed-4b4a-8ae7-11a542d4eb4b |
Bowie native Zion Johnson selected by Chargers at No. 17
"I’m just so excited to be in LA for the first time and to see all the coaches and meet all of my teammates. It’s awesome.”
Author: Joe Reedy Associated Press
INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Los Angeles Chargers general manager Tom Telesco acknowledged selecting a guard in the first round is not the sexiest pick, but when it comes to helping the offense take another step forward, taking Bowie native Zion Johnson of Boston College at No. 17 makes the most sense.
“We have some excellent skilled players. We have Justin Herbert, obviously, these guys cannot really do their jobs without a rock-solid offensive line,” Telesco said. “So as much as this pick is to protect our quarterback, which is a big part of it, it's also to facilitate everybody else. It's about pass protection and the run game.”
The selection of the Riverdale Baptist High School grad Johnson on Thursday night marked the first time the Chargers have taken a guard in the first round. It also marks the first time they have addressed the offensive line with their top pick in consecutive drafts.
RELATED: Locked On Commanders: Final preview of Washington's needs and prospects ahead of 2022 NFL Draft
Johnson said he met with the Chargers during the scouting combine but didn't have any conversations with them after that.
“It was so unexpected. I was mid-conversation when I got the call,” he said. "I’m just so excited to be in LA for the first time and to see all the coaches and meet all of my teammates. It’s awesome.”
“A lot of guys, you ask them, ‘When you were in high school, did you see yourself here now?’ For me, honestly, no. I went to Davidson and really, it was just having to overcome a lot of things on my way to Boston College," Johnson said. "I think when I got there, I got a perspective where I thought the NFL was an achievable goal." | 2022-04-29T13:19:07Z | www.wusa9.com | Bowie, MD, native Zion Johnson picked in 1st round of NFL Draft | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/locked-on/lo-national/nfl-draft-show/bowie-native-zion-johnson-selected-by-chargers-at-no-17-nfl-draft-news-riverdale-baptist-high-school/65-0c26ff41-3e5c-4baf-9071-6883c933ca12 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/locked-on/lo-national/nfl-draft-show/bowie-native-zion-johnson-selected-by-chargers-at-no-17-nfl-draft-news-riverdale-baptist-high-school/65-0c26ff41-3e5c-4baf-9071-6883c933ca12 |
Everyone who survived has a story they still carry about the twister that tore through the small town of about 9,000.
LA PLATA, Md. — The scars are easy to miss and the signs of the tornado from 20 years ago are mostly seen in what's been rebuilt. But for those who were here the memories of the devastation are still haunting.
"I thought to myself, 'How are we ever going to recover from this?'" recalled La Plata Mayor Jeannine James from a stage outside the town hall.
On Thursday, 20 years to the day, this small town of about 9,000 marked the biggest tornado to ever hit the D.C. region.
With winds pushing 200 miles per hour, the tornado killed five people, injured dozens and ripped up more than $100 million in homes and businesses.
"It was a wild scene," remembered La Plata resident Rob Cox.
The town honored those lost and the countless number who came to help outside the town hall just across the street from Cox's house where the tornado cut through just behind his backyard.
"You didn't see an end to it. You didn't see a light at the end of the tunnel," he said of the days after the massive storm.
Anyone who was here will tell you everyone who survived has a story they still carry.
But it's the story of their town since the tornado, that many seem most interested in telling - one of new city facilities, more businesses than were lost, and a community that's made a comeback.
"The recovery efforts really just took this town to the next step. And I'm so proud to live here now. It's unbelievable what it looks like now," said Cox. | 2022-04-29T17:11:53Z | www.wusa9.com | La Plata, Maryland, marks 20 years since fatal tornado | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/la-plata-marks-20-years-since-largest-tornado-to-hit-the-dc-region-touched-down/65-93dc8d60-f74c-4b13-ab32-3fbe7b35bfdf | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/la-plata-marks-20-years-since-largest-tornado-to-hit-the-dc-region-touched-down/65-93dc8d60-f74c-4b13-ab32-3fbe7b35bfdf |
Police: Man dies from stabbing on sidewalk outside Metrobus in Prince George's County
A man is in custody in connection with the stabbing, according to police.
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. — Police say a man is dead from a stabbing on a sidewalk near a Metrobus in Prince George's County Friday afternoon. The stabbing apparently happened following an argument on a Metrobus.
Officers from the Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) were called around 2:45 p.m. to the Metrobus that was driving on the P12 route, located in the area of Southview Court and Southview Drive.
First responders found a man dead at the scene, police say. Officers took a man into custody in connection with the stabbing; this man was also hospitalized with injuries, police say. It is unclear how this man was injured, but police identified him as a "suspect."
MTPD officers and officers from Prince George's County Police Department (PGPD) are continuing to investigate the incident.
WMATA emphasized that the stabbing happened off the Metrobus, which is why PGPD will lead the investigation.
RELATED: Man attempted to murder his ex-girlfriend's mother; he's sentenced to 40 years in prison
RELATED: Juvenile stabbed on Metrobus in DC, officials say | 2022-04-29T20:43:38Z | www.wusa9.com | Police: 1 fatally stabbed near Metrobus in Prince George's County | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/police-man-fatally-stabbed-aboard-metrobus-in-pg-county/65-377d39be-9d35-4121-9382-1019746bb266 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/police-man-fatally-stabbed-aboard-metrobus-in-pg-county/65-377d39be-9d35-4121-9382-1019746bb266 |
'Not only my dream job, but it's also home' | Mike Locksley signs new 5-year deal as Terrapins football coach
The new contract comes following the first winning season for the Terrapins since 2014 and their first bowl victory in over a decade.
COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The Maryland Terrapins football team is keeping their guy at the head of their program, at least for the foreseeable future. Head coach Michael Locksley has agreed to terms on a new five-year contract with the team, University of Maryland Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics Damon Evans announced Friday.
Locksley is coming off his first season with a winning record for the Terps since taking the reins full-time in 2019. He previously had a brief stint as interim head coach following Randy Edsall's firing in 2015.
"Coach Locks has done a great job revitalizing our football program," Evans said. "[He] continues to build our program and has high expectations and we know he is the man to lead us there. We are thrilled he will be leading our football program into the future as the best is certainly ahead."
Under Locksley's leadership last season, the team finished strong with a 54-10 drubbing of their former ACC-rival Virginia Tech Hokies in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl. It was the first bowl appearance for UMD in five years and their first victory since 2010. Even more impressive, Maryland's 54 points in the game marked the most ever for a Terrapin team in a bowl game and the most points ever scored by any team in Pinstripe Bowl history.
"Maryland is not only my dream job, but it's also home."@CoachLocks has signed a new five-year contract!
LOCKED IN ➡️ https://t.co/gjxE1I0Pef pic.twitter.com/1eoQezShuf
In a statement released by the school, Locksley said, "I appreciate the trust President Pines and Damon Evans have shown in me and I'm thankful for all of the support that our administration has given to make sure our student-athletes are in a position to be successful both on and off the field." He added, "Maryland is not only my dream job, but it's also home."
The Terps under Locksley are one of only two teams (Ohio State) to rank among the top four teams in the Big Ten conference in scoring offense, total offense and passing offense in 2021. Maryland set numerous school records this past season, including the single-season marks for total yards (5,740) and passing yards (3,960).
The news comes a day ahead of the annual Red-White spring game played by the team, which will be viewable on the Big Ten Network at 12 p.m. The players rallied around Locksley last season and are expected to be excited to keep their skipper.
RELATED: Tagovailoa, turnovers lift Maryland over West Virginia 30-24
Locksley has been coaching at a high level since taking the head coaching job for the University of New Mexico back in 2009. His efforts there were unsuccessful before being relieved in 2011, when he joined UMD as an assistant coach.
In 2016 he joined Nick Saban's powerhouse staff at the University of Alabama as an offensive analyst, eventually climbing to the role of offensive coordinator, winning a national championship with the Crimson Tide as well as the Broyles Award in 2018, a recognition given to the nation's top college assistant football coach.
According to the team, 28 players coached by Locksley have earned All-Big Ten recognition for their performance on the field. In the classroom, 79 Terrapins have garnered Academic All-Big Ten honors during his tenure, including a program-record 32 in 2021.
Locksley is originally a D.C. native and played as a defensive back for Towson University in the late '80s. The Terps start their 2022 season at home against the University of Buffalo on Sept. 3.
RELATED: Maryland Athletics to require vaccination for all indoor sporting events, university says | 2022-04-29T20:43:56Z | www.wusa9.com | Mike Locksley secured as Maryland football coach with 5 year deal | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/college/university-maryland-football-head-coach-locksley-gets-new-five-year-deal-terrapins/65-3722b485-bcca-45e5-b5f1-b73c80ede74b | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/college/university-maryland-football-head-coach-locksley-gets-new-five-year-deal-terrapins/65-3722b485-bcca-45e5-b5f1-b73c80ede74b |
The D.C. Board of Elections ruled McDuffie was not eligible and the councilman appealed. That appeal was denied by a 3-judge D.C. Court of Appeals panel Wednesday.
Author: Alanea Cremen, Megan Rivers
The D.C. Court of Appeals is considering holding an expedited rehearing to discuss whether or not Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie is eligible to run for D.C. Attorney General.
Challenger Bruce Spiva questioned whether McDuffie was qualified to run for the position, saying McDuffie is not “actively engaged” as an attorney at the moment, which is a requirement to run for office.
The D.C. Board of Elections ruled McDuffie was not eligible and the councilman appealed the decision. That appeal was denied by a three-judge panel of the D.C. Court of Appeals Wednesday.
Now, the D.C. Court of Appeals says they are considering holding an expedited rehearing, which would allow the case to go before the full D.C. Court of Appeals, also known as a hearing en banc.
In the matter of Kenyan McDuffie, the DC Court of Appeals will consider holding an expedited rehearing that would go before the full D.C. Court of Appeals, also known as a hearing en banc, after reviewing the responses from the respondent and intervenor, which are due by 5pm. pic.twitter.com/dAQn1Pr2Rb
— DC Courts PIO (@DC_Courts) April 29, 2022
McDuffie’s attorney, Baruch Weiss, argued he should be allowed to run for the office, even under the current law.
“We are focusing primarily on the argument that he did serve as an attorney, he was engaged as an attorney, because he used the legal skills which he had in order to do the work that he had to do in his position. Because after all, council members draft and analyze laws, that is part of the definition of what a lawyer does,” Weiss said.
Kenyan McDuffie cannot run for attorney general, DC Board of Elections says
WATCH NEXT: Court of appeals rules DC Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie is not qualified to run for DC Attorney General | 2022-04-29T22:27:04Z | www.wusa9.com | DC Court of Appeals may rehear arguments on McDuffie run for AG | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-court-of-appeals-considers-rehearing-kenyan-mcduffie-qualified-dc-attorney-general/65-c39782c1-62ba-4298-8a9b-d0301ddd3129 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-court-of-appeals-considers-rehearing-kenyan-mcduffie-qualified-dc-attorney-general/65-c39782c1-62ba-4298-8a9b-d0301ddd3129 |
J. Stephen Jones, MD says some patients have gone from cheering nurses and doctors at the beginning of the COVID pandemic to jeering them with racism.
FALLS CHURCH, Va. — The CEO of one of our region's biggest healthcare systems is offering a shocking account of racism and abuse of healthcare workers.
In an opinion piece in the Richmond Times Dispatch, J. Stephen Jones, MD of Inova says nurses and healthcare workers are being subjected to a staggering number of slurs and even physical violence.
One patient told a nurse of the year he only wanted to be treated by white nurses. It's a huge turn from where we were at the beginning of the pandemic.
WUSA9 had an exclusive chance to sit down with Jones one on one.
Jones said two years ago healthcare workers were treated like heroes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We had fire trucks, police, and everyone else was coming around. The 'sirens for heroes,'" he said. "Two years ago we were fighting a battle arms locked, society totally behind us. It helped energize us a lot."
He says now, that healthcare workers are being abused verbally, physically and otherwise.
"What I heard in this circumstance is a patient said, 'I only want to be treated by a white nurse. And that nurse is not white. And it breaks my heart," Jones explained. "To think you come in to take care of someone and you're treated exactly the opposite of what you expect. It breaks my heart. But it's not a rare instance. And that's why we're speaking up."
When asked if patients are telling nurses to "go back to their own country," Jones confirmed it has happened. Racist incidents aren't the only forms of abuse healthcare workers are facing.
"In 2021, we had 648 incidents of physical violence reported," Jones said. "We've got to put an end to that."
Jones said those incidents do not include any of the racist incidents.
"Doesn't include any of that," he explained. "No way we could count that. Sad to say."
Jones says there is a zero-tolerance policy for racism at Inova.
"We will take a stand that if patients want to be cared for in that manner if they don't want to be cared for by the people who are there to help them... They will not make that choice at Inova," he said.
Ultimately, Jones is asking patients and family members to appreciate the people taking care of them.
"Simply be kind. And if you can't be kind, at least be quiet," he said. "Because we're here to help you."
Yes, there's a national blood shortage and you can still donate if you had the COVID vaccine
Hospitals in Northern Virginia struggle with blood shortage | 2022-04-30T00:06:47Z | www.wusa9.com | Inova CEO says patient said he only wanted white nurses | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/inova-ceo-stephen-jones-blasts-racist-slurs-against-health-care-workers-nurses-doctors/65-2e6a041a-b30f-4760-bfc8-9a778d6362d5 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/inova-ceo-stephen-jones-blasts-racist-slurs-against-health-care-workers-nurses-doctors/65-2e6a041a-b30f-4760-bfc8-9a778d6362d5 |
LA PLATA, Md. — The Charles County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) says a plastic bag containing a substance that tested positive for morphine was found at a middle school on Friday afternoon.
According to a statement from the sheriff's office, a student at Milton Somers Middle School in La Plata "found a plastic bag containing a suspicious substance inside a classroom." Police say the student reported the bag to a teacher who then reported the discovery to administrators.
Investigators say the substance in the bag tested positive for morphine. It is unclear how the bag got into the school, the sheriff's office says.
This comes two weeks after the CCSO investigated an instance at Thomas Stone High School three teens brought THC-laced food to school and one of the students was hospitalized.
The sheriff's office praised the middle school student for reporting the bag to teachers.
"Parents are urged to talk with their children about the importance of notifying school staff or a school resource officer as soon as possible about potentially dangerous situations," the sheriff's office says.
Anyone with information about the bag found at the middle school should call investigators at 301-932-2222.
RELATED: Parent of recovered addict has advice for how to talk to kids about drugs | 2022-04-30T00:06:54Z | www.wusa9.com | Police find bag of morphine-positive powder in MD middle school | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/charles-county-sheriffs-office-recovers-bag-of-morphine-positive-powder-middle-school/65-d79002b0-89d0-42a4-9a59-5a5ea9cc74c6 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/charles-county-sheriffs-office-recovers-bag-of-morphine-positive-powder-middle-school/65-d79002b0-89d0-42a4-9a59-5a5ea9cc74c6 |
“If you look at the where that bullet hit the glass it's head level,” Jake Genachowski said.
WASHINGTON D.C., DC — A gunman opened fire near Edmund Burke School in D.C. a week ago, hurting four people including a 12-year-old girl. The Van Ness community was at a standstill that day as police worked to capture the shooter.
Investigators have said they still don't know why Raymond Spencer started shooting, or if he targeted the school and children.
A restaurant owner, nearly a mile away in Cleveland Park, thinks one of the shooter's bullets hit his window. The owner at Byblos Deli, who just goes by Mark, said the bullet hit this window at the same time the shooting happened.
A spokesperson for Byblos Deli said, "If you look at the where that bullet hit the glass it's head level," Jake Genachowski said.
If someone had been standing just outside of Byblos Deli last Friday, the bullet that hit this window would've hit them.
"He (Mark) was sitting very close to where the gunshot, or the bullet, hit the glass. He had thought it was just someone throwing a rock at his building. Broad daylight in Cleveland Park, I don't think that's where anyone's mind went," Genachowski said.
One bullet pierced a window at Byblos Deli, it didn't go through; but a few doors down, we see found another single gunshot in Uptown Vision.
"I was across the street walking home and I heard the gunshots ring out and in this neighborhood, it sounded like it could have been gunshots, but there's been a ton of construction," Genachowski said.
The single-shot hit the deli at the same time DC Police were responding to the Van Ness shooting near Edmund Burke School. Investigators identified Raymond Spencer as the shooter and found a plethora of weapons and ammunition.
Samantha Smith is a teacher at a D.C. Public School and was stuck for eight hours trying to get home.
"I'm anxious all day every day. You just think school is a safe space and now it's not," Smith said.
It's still a mystery to police as to why Spencer was shooting at school-aged children. Smith said as an educator, her instant concern was the safety of the students at the school she once attended herself as a teen and hopes the students are able to heal from the trauma of the shooting.
"Don't let it kill your love of school or your love of learning. Don't let the fear stop you from enjoying your time in school and that your teachers are there to keep you safe," Smith said.
Police said they're awaiting ballistic results to ensure it was in fact bullets from Spencer's gun, nearly a mile away. Genachowski said things could've been so much worse. "We're all very lucky here that the shooting was at 3:30 and not 12:30 because I think if this shot was during the lunchtime rush, there's a real good chance someone's would be hurt or worse," he said.
RELATED: 'Hold your children close' | Private school near Van Ness shooting closes for 'mental and physical' recover | 2022-04-30T00:07:00Z | www.wusa9.com | Cleveland Park deli thinks bullets from Van Ness hit his window | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/van-ness-shooting-raymond-spencer-byblos-deli/65-616dad2f-675e-4931-9500-c6feac5e6a7a | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/van-ness-shooting-raymond-spencer-byblos-deli/65-616dad2f-675e-4931-9500-c6feac5e6a7a |
Captain Kim Schoppa served with the department for over 18 years.
Credit: Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department has been mourning the death of one of its own.
Captain Kimberly Schoppa died Tuesday after a battle with occupational cancer, Fire Chief John Butler announced. She was only 49.
In 2004, Capt. Schoppa was hired as a firefighter. She served with the department for over 18 years.
"Captain Schoppa was a valued friend and esteemed member of the department. There is no doubt Captain Schoppa touched many lives throughout her career and will be remembered as a kind, caring and compassionate person. She was an exceptional leader, mentor, and friend. She will be greatly missed," Fire Chief Butler wrote in a social media post.
As a tribute, a mural in her honor was painted in the stairway of the fire station.
During her career, Captain Kim Schoppa spent time as a Lieutenant assigned to Fire Station 24, Woodlawn. A mural in her honor was painted in the stairway of the fire station.❤️ #FCFRD pic.twitter.com/B8GHCuboeM
According to the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue, Capt. Schoppa was assigned to Fire Station 27, West Springfield (C-Shift), where she rose through the ranks to become captain. Capt. Schoppa was also a member of the Honor Guard at the time of her passing.
"Captain Kim Schoppa is irreplaceable, unforgettable, and has an amazing legacy that will come to inspire everyone who ever met her. My heart is broken reading the news that she passed away. I believe that Kim would want us to be better: better friends, better family members, better firefighters," the post read.
In another tribute to Schoppa, a firefighter from the department wrote a piece about Schoppa. A jacket that appeared to belong to Schoppa was hung on the a fire truck.
Members from the department gathered to salute Schoppa during her dignified transfer. She was carried to her funeral home by units from her last assignment, Fire Station, West Springfield.
Schoppa's death was considered to be in the line of duty. She is survived by her wife, parents, siblings as well as extended family and friends
Family mourns loss of 2 Maryland sisters returning home from Florida vacation | 2022-04-30T20:36:36Z | www.wusa9.com | Fairfax County Fire and Rescue dies from occupational cancer | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/fairfax-county-fire-captain-honor-after-occupational-cancer-death/65-f8ef4a39-8592-42fe-943f-4b9e0706b851 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/fairfax-county-fire-captain-honor-after-occupational-cancer-death/65-f8ef4a39-8592-42fe-943f-4b9e0706b851 |
Triple shooting reported near Benton middle school's athletic fields
The ages of the victims and the extent of their injuries were not made available.
MANASSAS, Va. — Prince William County Police Department (PWCPD) officers are investigating a shooting that occurred near the athletic fields of Louise A. Benton Middle School in Manassas Sunday afternoon.
PWCPD say three people were found with gunshot wounds at the scene. All three of the victims are being taken to a local hospital for treatment.
At this time it is unclear how the shooting unfolded and whether or not there was a school event taking place at the time of the shooting.
Officers are at the scene and securing the area.
RELATED: Students charged after fight in hallway of Manassas Park High School | 2022-05-01T17:09:06Z | www.wusa9.com | 3 people shot near field at Benton Middle School | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/3-people-shot-near-manassas-middle-school-athletic-fields-police-say/65-489b11a1-a893-4da0-b339-c5ce95181d5f | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/3-people-shot-near-manassas-middle-school-athletic-fields-police-say/65-489b11a1-a893-4da0-b339-c5ce95181d5f |
Several chances for rain during the Wells Fargo Championship golf tournament in Potomac, MD this week.
Take a look at the weather each day of the tournament and events.
11:00 a.m. – Pro-Am begins - No rain at this time. Some grassy areas may be damp from previous day's rain. Dry during the day with afternoon temperatures between 74-79.
Practice Rounds & Executive Women’s Day - Weather will be dry during the day with afternoon temperatures 73-77. Showers should hold off until after 6 p.m.
Wednesday May 4: Official Pro-Am
6:50 a.m. – Morning tee times begin
12:20 p.m. – Afternoon tee times begin
Temperatures during the morning tee 56-62 degrees. Slight chance of showers. Pathways and grass may be wet. Off and on showers will occur during the day, but storms and rain will likely happen after 2 p.m.
7 a.m. – First Round
Morning temperatures 56-64. A few clouds, but it is a dry day. Grounds may still be damp in some areas due to previous day's rain. Afternoon highs low to mid 70s. Showers will hold off until late Thursday night.
7 a.m. – Second Round
Showers are likely through the day on Friday. The timing of the rain may shift a bit. It's possible that at the start of the second round, it will be rain-free with showers picking up in the afternoon. Highs: 60s.
8 a.m. – Third Round
Light to moderate showers. Cloudy. Temperatures in the 50s and 60s. A low pressure system will impact the area.
8 a.m. – Championship Round
Cloudy with a few showers likely in the morning. With the low pressure moving east, we may see conditions dry up a little by the second half of the day. | 2022-05-01T20:19:54Z | www.wusa9.com | Wells Fargo Golf Championship Weather Maryland | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/weather/forecast-for-the-wells-fargo-golf-tournament-in-potomac-md/65-eea73754-02ce-4ee8-8978-fcd0b925160a | https://www.wusa9.com/article/weather/forecast-for-the-wells-fargo-golf-tournament-in-potomac-md/65-eea73754-02ce-4ee8-8978-fcd0b925160a |
Investigators believe Zakee Martin of Waldorf intentionally caused a hit-and-run crash Sunday morning, before burglarizing a closed bank.
Author: Kevin Kenney, Deirdre Byrne
WALDORF, Md. — A 25-year-old man has been arrested for a hit-and-run in Waldorf and for burglarizing a bank, which he fired at with a gun.
In a statement, the Charles County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) identified the man arrested Sunday as Zakee Rasuul Martin of Waldorf.
The CCSO says officers were dispatched at 9:47 a.m. to Western Parkway near Millbrook Court for the report of a hit-and-run motor vehicle crash. The driver who struck another vehicle, who investigators believe is Martin, left the scene before officers arrived
According to CCSO, “As the officers were responding, they received another call that a man had jumped out of a car at the Market Place shopping center and fired multiple rounds at the front door of a bank.”
Police say that although the bank was technically closed, the man, identified as Martin, walked through the shattered doors into the bank.
Maryland State Police troopers were called to the scene to assist officers from CCSO who were setting up a perimeter around the bank. As officers were establishing the perimeter, Martin exited the bank through the back door.
According to police, Martin “removed a gun from the front of his waistband and transferred it to the rear of his waistband.”
Police say Martin ignored orders as he was asked to stop walking, proceeding toward Western Parkway. Eventually, officers “deescalate[d] the situation” and took Martin into custody.
“The officers recovered a loaded semi-automatic handgun from his waistband,” the CCSO statement says.
Investigators also linked Martin to the hit-and-run at Western Parkway around 9:45 a.m. and believe he may have intentionally caused the crash.
After Martin was arrested, police say he was taken to a hospital to receive treatment for injuries he suffered during the crash. He has since been released from the hospital and police say he was taken to the Charles County Detention Center.
Police say Martin has been “charged with assault, destruction of property, burglary, illegally transporting a firearm, numerous traffic violations, and other related charges.”
According to the CCSO, he is being held and is awaiting to appear before the District court commissioner.
Police say no one was injured in the hit-and-run crash or amid the destruction of the bank.
Anyone with information about this case should call 301-932-2222. The investigation is ongoing.
1 hospitalized after 3 students found with 'dangerous' substance-laced food in Charles County schools | 2022-05-02T03:57:29Z | www.wusa9.com | Waldorf man faces charges for hit-and-run, burglarizing bank | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/police-waldorf-man-may-have-deliberately-crashed-car-before-breaking-into-bank/65-93ffa3bd-ed6e-4ce2-8725-8bf4e32d4ed1 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/police-waldorf-man-may-have-deliberately-crashed-car-before-breaking-into-bank/65-93ffa3bd-ed6e-4ce2-8725-8bf4e32d4ed1 |
Victims kidnapped, robbed after getting into a car that wasn't their rideshare, police say
They got in a car believing it was their rideshare. It wasn't, and they were robbed in DC
Police are asking for the public's help finding the people responsible.
WASHINGTON — People who thought they were getting into a rideshare car just after midnight on Sunday found themselves locked in a car and forced at gunpoint to take money out of an ATM.
Metropolitan Police Department detectives are now searching for the suspect vehicle after it was caught on surveillance video.
According to police, the kidnapping and armed robbery happened around 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 1, in the 600 block of Florida Avenue, Northwest.
That's when the victims got into a car believing it was a rideshare vehicle. During the ride, the suspects produced a handgun and locked the doors of the vehicle, police said. The suspects drove the victims around and demanded they take money out of an ATM. The victims complied and the suspects fled the scene in a vehicle.
That vehicle is described by police as a white Dodge Charger. It was captured on surveillance video. A photo can be seen below.
Police did not say how much money to suspects got away with.
Anyone who can help identify the suspects or the vehicle is asked to call police at 202-727-9099 or text the department's tip line at 50411.
Both Uber and Lyft ask riders to double check the license plates of their rideshare vehicles before getting inside. Once you are matched with a driver on the app, you'll be able to see a name, photo, and license plate number of your driver in the apps.
RELATED: Lyft, Uber make big changes to COVID-19 mask policies | 2022-05-02T08:10:40Z | www.wusa9.com | Wrong rideshare leads to kidnapping, robbery, police say | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/robbed-after-getting-into-wrong-rideshare-car/65-3413d9ac-039a-45fe-ae0d-8ea02d47c766 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/robbed-after-getting-into-wrong-rideshare-car/65-3413d9ac-039a-45fe-ae0d-8ea02d47c766 |
Police are investigating the circumstances that led up to the fatal crash
WASHINGTON — Editor's note: The above video is from April 8, 2022.
A pedestrian is dead after they were hit by a car at the intersection of N. Capitol Street and Florida Avenue, Northwest, according to police.
A watch commander with the Metropolitan Police Department's third district said they received a call to investigate a crash around 2:30 a.m. When they arrived on scene, they found the pedestrian, who was pronounced dead on the scene. The driver stayed on the scene, according to police. The driver was not hurt.
MPD investigators are still looking into the circumstances surrounding the deadly crash. The intersection was closed early Monday for the investigation. Police originally said the road was back open, but later said the unit block of Florida Avenue, NW, between Q and North Capitol Streets will remain closed until further notice
The victim has not been identified by police.
Police have not released any additional details and the investigation is ongoing.
RELATED: Fatal hit and run on Suitland Parkway; police searching for driver
RELATED: Drivers hit, killed 3 pedestrians in Montgomery County. Now, advocates are calling for change | 2022-05-02T10:02:37Z | www.wusa9.com | Fatal pedestrian crash in NW DC | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/victim-struck-by-car-killed-in-nw-dc/65-1fdfdc43-0b5c-4ec8-95fc-cb1a31ae4584 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/victim-struck-by-car-killed-in-nw-dc/65-1fdfdc43-0b5c-4ec8-95fc-cb1a31ae4584 |
Maryland and Virginia were well below the District, sitting next to each other at Nos. 19 and 20, respectively.
WASHINGTON — A national study conducted by the finance website WalletHub has ranked D.C. 6th in a list of all 50 states plus the District on the best states for working moms ahead of Mother's Day this Sunday.
The website ranked D.C. on a list of qualities, which added up to its final spot on the list. The following categories are in part what made up the ultimate ranking:
Life as a Working Mom in D.C. (1=Best; 25=Avg.):
14th – Day-Care Quality
1st – Pediatricians per Capita
1st – Ratio of Female Executives to Male Executives
4th – Median Women’s Salary (Adjusted for Cost of Living)
2nd – Parental-Leave Policy Score
The website said that it used data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Institute for Women's Policy Research and more to finalize their rankings.
The worst states on the list, ending with the dead last, were Idaho, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana.
The website added that nearly half of the workforce is currently made up of women and that nearly 68% of moms with children under age 18 were working in 2021. The pandemic hampered more women's careers more than men's, however, dropping around 1.3% between Q3 2019 and Q3 2021 for those over the age of 25 (compared to 1.1% for men).
Click here to see the full list and read the study's methodology. | 2022-05-02T13:44:30Z | www.wusa9.com | DC 6th in country for working moms, national study says | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/mothers-day-national-study-ranks-dc-6th-in-country-for-working-moms/65-6be9d554-8714-474e-b0c9-ba06e950317a | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/mothers-day-national-study-ranks-dc-6th-in-country-for-working-moms/65-6be9d554-8714-474e-b0c9-ba06e950317a |
The singer-turned-businesswoman opened Savage X Fenty at Pentagon City.
WASHINGTON — Editor's note: The footage above aired in January 2022.
Rihanna, the singer-turned-businesswoman, opened her first brick-and-mortar Savage X Fenty store on Saturday, April 30, at the Fashion Centre in Pentagon City.
Earlier this year, Rihanna announced her plans to open five of her new Savage X Fenty stores in the U.S.
The Virginia location will be followed by series of openings across the country - including stores Houston, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Las Vegas.
According to a press release, the Virginia location in Pentagon City will be an immersive experience, complete with five individual rooms, custom-made, inclusive mannequins; and a one-of-a-kind mannequin mall.
👏🏾This is #SavageXIRL, but frfr. We're bringin' a whoolleee Xperience to 5 Savage cities: Vegas, LA, Houston, Philly &...
Posted by Savage X Fenty on Friday, January 7, 2022
Rihanna founded Savage X Fenty in 2018, intending to create the ability to make people feel good about their bodies and how they look.
"No matter who you are, your size, your shape, your color, your goals - we want Every BODY to see themselves in Savage X," the release said.
Rihanna has other Fenty limes - Fenty Skin and Fenty Beauty for people to shop in person through other retailers such as Sephora and Ulta.
Savage X Fenty at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City hours is listed below:
Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
RELATED: DC is savage | Rihanna announces brick and mortar Savage X Fenty store coming to the District
RELATED: Pop superstar Rihanna donates $5 million to relief efforts | 2022-05-02T15:28:02Z | www.wusa9.com | Rihanna opens her lingerie line Savage X Fenty in the District | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/rhinna-savage-x-fenty-store-opens-in/65-7d315b25-0eaa-4003-b0fc-18361702152d | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/rhinna-savage-x-fenty-store-opens-in/65-7d315b25-0eaa-4003-b0fc-18361702152d |
The American Airlines trip celebrates the 250,000 total passengers the Honor Flight Network has flown off to the District.
WASHINGTON — An American Airlines flight will bring the latest of 250,000 passengers into the District thanks to the Honor Flight Network, which honors veterans by bringing them to the capital to see monuments.
This flight’s veterans will join hundreds of dignitaries, volunteers, supporters and Honor Flight Network leadership at the World War II Memorial, all in celebration of the quarter-million milestone.
More than 175 veterans will be in attendance and land at BWI. Upon arrival, this year’s participants will be greeted with a water cannon salute and a hero's welcome inside the terminal.
The organization has flown veterans to the nation’s capital for years in order to visit the memorials that honor their service and sacrifice. They were founded in 2005 and share in the mission that the U.S. become a nation where all veterans experience “the honor, gratitude, and community of support they deserve,” according to their website.
The network said they serve more than 22,000 veterans every year. | 2022-05-02T18:46:35Z | www.wusa9.com | Honor flight brings veterans to DC for big milestone | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/washington-honor-flight-brings-veterans-to-dc-to-celebrate-milestone/65-16a8c4b9-cba0-4b5c-ae42-f3463a637cab | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/washington-honor-flight-brings-veterans-to-dc-to-celebrate-milestone/65-16a8c4b9-cba0-4b5c-ae42-f3463a637cab |
The Catholic Diocese of Arlington is suing Alexandria over a land dispute.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — There is a land dispute happening between a local church and an affordable housing project in Alexandria, Virginia. The Catholic Diocese of Arlington is suing the city of Alexandria over a proposed project that could serve many of its own parishioners.
The church at the center of the suit is St. Rita Catholic Church off of West Glebe Road in the Arlandria neighborhood. The Church has been serving the mostly immigrant community of Arlandria or Chirilagua (named after a town in El Salvador) for over a century in the sanctuary and in schools. Now, the church is at the center of a lawsuit that could stall a long-awaited and much-needed affordable housing project.
“Affordable housing is important, particularly in areas like this where cost of living is so expensive,” said Drew Rivera who lives in the area.
The non-profit organization Alexandria Housing Development Corporation plans to build a 475-unit affordable housing complex off Mount Vernon and Glebe Roads. According to AHDC, that includes 100 deeply affordable apartments for families making about $52,000 a year or 40% of the area median income.
Housing advocates with Tenants and Workers United told WUSA9 that the price point is the difference between families staying in their homes or being priced out.
“We all support people getting in homes and having a home and raising their families,” said parishioner Rob Fernandez who was picking up his children from the parish daycare.
But according to a lawsuit filed in April, the Catholic Diocese of Arlington argues the alley between the proposed project and the catholic school belongs to the church – they’ve even submitted the 1922 land deed to prove it.
“If you handle land title issues with a lot of casualness then a lot of problems are going to happen,” added Fernandez, “you get into dispute and the disputes get really, really bad.”
A mom also picking up her child from the daycare stopped to weigh in adding, “The churches and the parishioners do want to help especially those in need, I think it comes down to a lack of communication between the city of Alexandria and the church. It’s the same as if someone came into your backyard and used your backyard for whatever purpose obviously you would have a problem with that,” she said.
In a letter sent to families, church leaders expressed their support of the project writing, “we look forward to being next-door neighbors with residents of the AHDC project.” But its support doesn’t mean the church must “forfeit its property right and due process rights.”
Billy Atwell, Chief Communication Officer for the Diocese of Arlington said the church filed the lawsuit to protect its legal and property rights.” Read the entire statement here:
"Saint Rita Catholic Church, located in Alexandria, has been part of the local community for over a century and is the spiritual home to nearly 1,000 families and 260 students in the parish school in grades pre-K through 8.
Catholics in Alexandria support underserved and disadvantaged communities through programs such as parish food pantry partnerships, donated clothing, housing to at-risk individuals, a day center for the elderly, legal immigration assistance, and direct financial assistance to pay for rent, utilities, healthcare and other basic needs.
Saint Rita Catholic Church and the Catholic Diocese of Arlington are supportive of increasing affordable housing options and the mixed-use development planned by Alexandria Housing Development Corporation on land adjacent to the church’s property. With any development on adjacent property, the church must assess the impact of the development on its current operations, as well as ensuring the protection of its legal and property rights. The current plans negatively impact the ability of the parish and the school to serve its members and the local community and diminishes its legal rights and property interests.
The Diocese had to take certain steps under the law, because of timing constraints, to protect its property rights now and into the future. However, the Church has also taken steps to ensure that the parties involved now have adequate time to discuss and resolve outstanding issues, so it can continue serving its parishioners and the local community. We are hopeful that these issues can be resolved swiftly and amicably."
Neither the city nor the Alexandria Housing Development Corporation have been served the official lawsuit, so they can’t comment on potential litigation. But AHCD sent WUSA9 a statement saying they are excited to bring deeply affordable housing to the neighborhood.
RELATED: The Amazon Effect | Housing market gets squeezed by Amazon speculators
RELATED: Alexandria invests $100M for affordable housing ahead of Amazon HQ2 | 2022-05-03T02:41:47Z | www.wusa9.com | Church lawsuit could stall plans for affordable housing complex | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/arlandria-church-lawsuit-could-stall-affordable-housing-project/65-d7174237-756c-46eb-b2db-7224e089bc00 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/arlandria-church-lawsuit-could-stall-affordable-housing-project/65-d7174237-756c-46eb-b2db-7224e089bc00 |
The plaintiffs argue their First Amendment rights were violated by the District when DC Police officers blocked truckers from entering D.C. from the highway.
WASHINGTON — Sixteen members of the People’s Convoy have now filed suit against the District of Columbia claiming the local government violated their first amendment rights.
The plaintiffs filed the suit in the US District Court for the District of Columbia on Monday. It claims D.C. instructed Metropolitan Police Department officers to form blockades around specific points of entry into the District to purposely stop the truckers from exercising their constitutionally protected right to free speech in the nation’s capital.
“Of course, such action under color of state law violates Plaintiffs’ First Amendment rights,” the lawsuit reads.
The lawsuit claims that on four different occasions, between March 14 and March 18, MPD set up blockades that stopped truckers from leaving highways and driving into the District.
The plaintiffs argue they were refused their fundamental right to interstate travel and deprived of lawful entry into D.C.
“MPD failed to provide Plaintiffs with adequate notice, an opportunity to be heard, and substantial evidence to support their decision to prohibit Plaintiffs from entering the District of Columbia and refusal to allow Plaintiffs to exercise their First Amendment rights,” the lawsuit reads.
The plaintiffs are from California, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nevada, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. They are represented by Arlington-based attorney Michael Yoder.
They have asked the court to make DC government grant truckers entry into the District, without interference, so they can participate in free speech activities. The plaintiffs are also demanding a jury trial.
WUSA9 reached out to DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Office for comment. A mayor spokesperson said her office does not comment on litigation.
What's in a Convoy: How a lack of coherent leadership is causing fractures and factions in the large trucker protest
Police: Traffic delays, road closures heading into DC due to trucker convoys | 2022-05-03T02:41:53Z | www.wusa9.com | Members of trucker convoy file lawsuit against DC | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/members-of-trucker-convoy-sue-district-government-in-federal-court/65-613ebcb8-99ca-4954-9112-db6d15e81207 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/members-of-trucker-convoy-sue-district-government-in-federal-court/65-613ebcb8-99ca-4954-9112-db6d15e81207 |
The Anne Arundel County Police Department issued a traffic advisory and Maryland Route 665 is expected to be closed overnight.
ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, Md. — Editor's Note: The video above was published on April 20, 2022.
A crash involving a dump truck turned fatal Monday afternoon in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
Cleve Maynard, 63, died after the dump truck he was driving crashed into a bridge. Police say they do not know the reason for the crash.
The crash took place on Route 665 in Maryland at 12:56 p.m. According to police, the dump truck was moving eastbound on route 665 when it hit a bridge retaining wall before it fell into a ravine, according to police.
Maynard was pronounced dead at the scene by members of the Anne Arundel Fire Department, police say.
The Anne Arundel County Police Department issued a traffic advisory and Maryland Route 665 is expected to be closed overnight. Police also say that it could impact the morning rush hour.
Police further explained that they will provide updates for roadway statuses as they become available.
The crash is still being investigated by the Traffic Safety Section, police say.
Officers remain on scene of a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred earlier on Route 665. The roadway is expected to remain closed during overnight hours and could affect morning rush hour. Plan accordingly as delays are expected. Updates will be provided when available. pic.twitter.com/nGVhPmB90A
— Anne Arundel County Police Department (@AACOPD) May 3, 2022
RELATED: Driver of 'pedal pub' arrested, charged with DUI following rollover crash that injured 15 in Atlanta
RELATED: Pedestrian struck, killed in Northwest DC
RELATED: Police: Waldorf man may have deliberately crashed car before breaking into a bank | 2022-05-03T04:13:36Z | www.wusa9.com | Man fatally crashes dump truck into bridge on Route 666 in MD | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/man-fatally-crashes-into-bridge-on-route-665-maryland/65-22f2c6bb-2cf4-404b-9d6b-dbc30f0f3717 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/man-fatally-crashes-into-bridge-on-route-665-maryland/65-22f2c6bb-2cf4-404b-9d6b-dbc30f0f3717 |
From 2016 to 2021 there were more 58-thousand self-harm emergency department visits from kids between the ages of 9 and 18, according to Virginia Dept. of Health.
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — The side effects of the pandemic are becoming more visible, especially when it comes to the younger generation.
A new Virginia Department of Health report on self-harm and suicide in kids and teens gives a look at how deep some wounds go.
From 2016 to 2021 there were 58,442 self-harm emergency department visits from kids between the ages of 9 and 18. That includes visits with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or suicide attempts. The number of visits in 2021 more than doubled the number of self-harm emergency department visits in 2016.
RELATED: There was an increase in children going to emergency rooms for mental health. Here's how that may impact back to school learning
“A lot of the things we’re seeing now like depressive symptoms, symptoms of anxiety, cutting, self-harm, alcohol, substance abuse, all of those things are considered trauma responses,” said Blanca Estrada, a licensed professional counselor with 25 years of experience in children and adolescent trauma.
“When you’re looking at people during the pandemic when they’re all locked up, unable to go anywhere, unable to socialize everything is kind of resurfacing for them,” Estrada said.
According to the VDH report, self-harm emergency visits increased by 129 percent in boys and 190 percent in girls over the course of five years.
Credit: Virginia Department of Health
“A lot of them are not necessarily trying to kill themselves they really are just trying to stop the pain and they stop the pain by physically cutting or physically attempting something,” Estrada said.
As for what can be done to make things better and heal the trauma, Estrada recommends tuning into your children’s feelings.
“They just need to continue to give people a chance to validate to see them. A lot of people that are hurting they also feel they’ve never been seen or heard or validated in any way," Estrada said.
The Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides guidance on practicing active listening when a friend or loved one is thinking about suicide. Those steps include acknowledging the speaker, responding verbally, summarizing what you hear, and looking the part by keeping eye contact and staying engaged.
You can learn more HERE on how to help those suffering from depression. | 2022-05-03T04:13:43Z | www.wusa9.com | VDH report: Teen self-harm incidents worsening in Virginia | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/self-harm-incidents-regarding-teens-worsening-in-virginia/65-7f0763f8-a5d5-403f-8b2d-014c4a737e13 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/self-harm-incidents-regarding-teens-worsening-in-virginia/65-7f0763f8-a5d5-403f-8b2d-014c4a737e13 |
Nice Tuesday leading into a rainy evening
DC Circulator bus drivers are going on strike
The union representing the bus drivers cited a lack of progress on contract negotiations as a reason for the strike.
WASHINGTON — Bus drivers for D.C.'s Circulator buses are going on strike Tuesday.
The strike follows about two months of negotiations between the company that owns the buses, RATP Dev, and the union that represents the bus drivers.
In a statement, Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 said bus drivers were "fed up" with a lack of progress in contract talks and unfair labor practices.
“RATP Dev left us with no other options but to walk off the job at the DC Circulator,” said ATU Local 689 President Raymond Jackson in a statement. “We encourage commuters to seek other forms of public transportation throughout the city. After months of negotiations, it has become clear that RATP Dev has been negotiating in bad faith, committing multiple unfair labor practice (ULP) violations in the process.”
RATP Dev warned commuters that as a result of the strike, service at the D.C. Circulator may be interrupted, delayed or canceled. The company encouraged riders to check for updates here, and make other transportation plans if necessary.
"ATU Local 689’s decision to engage in a labor strike is disappointing to RATP Dev. The Company proposed to extend the term of the parties’ current collective bargaining agreement beyond April 30, 2022, but ATU Local 689 rejected the Company’s offer to avoid a strike," RATP Dev said in a statement.
RELATED: 'Come and dump' | PG County leaders angry at DC's new bus yard plans | 2022-05-03T10:22:44Z | www.wusa9.com | DC Circulator bus drivers go on strike | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-circulator-bus-drivers-go-on-strike-may-3-2022/65-149910ac-299d-4639-b587-73762185562d | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-circulator-bus-drivers-go-on-strike-may-3-2022/65-149910ac-299d-4639-b587-73762185562d |
Planet Fitness invites high school students to work out for free all summer long
Planet Fitness will award all teens one $500 scholarship in each state, and one grand prize $5,000 scholarship at the end of the summer.
WASHINGTON — Editor's note: The footage above air in June 2019.
Planet Fitness is helping parents to get their teens out of the house and stay active this summer by offering a one-of-a-kind benefit: a free memberships for the entire summer.
The initiative was formerly known as the Teen Summer Challenge, which launched back in 2019 to help students to stay active at a time when gym classes, after-school activities, and school sports programs wind down, according to the company.
The nationwide fitness chain saw more than 90,000 teens sign up and complete more than 5.5 million workouts during the entire summer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, less than 15% of teens were meeting the daily physical activity recommendation during the pandemic.
The company wants teens to feel safe and have a welcoming space when they arrive at any of their locations to get their sweat on in a healthy way.
All teens who sign up for membership are automatically entered into a scholarship, which will reward one student in each state to have the chance to win a $500 scholarship and a grand prize of $5,000 in scholarship.
May is Mental Health Month and @PlanetFitness is inviting high school Ss, ages of 14–19 to work out for FREE from May 16 – August 31 at any of their more than 2,200 clubs as part of the High School Summer Pass Initiative and aims at improving teen’s mental and physical health 💪 pic.twitter.com/op7zkGw8EI
— Joanne Zapata (@SraZapata2) May 2, 2022
To enroll, students must be between the age of 14 and 19 years old. Teenagers under 18 years old must sign up with a parent or guardian either online or in-person at one of their clubs.
High school students can workout for free from May 16 - Aug. 13 at a nearest planet fitness location.
Teenagers looking to enroll in the program can pre-register on the Planet Fitness website.
RELATED: The Good Thick: The new fitness group promoting healing for Black women
RELATED: Maintaining fitness goals while returning to work | 2022-05-03T13:23:39Z | www.wusa9.com | Free membership at Planet Fitness for all teens this summer. | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/life/planet-fitness-invites-teens-to-work-out-for-free-all-summer-long/65-4e04de6e-a5e1-4aae-a48c-929ab29e4e1b | https://www.wusa9.com/article/life/planet-fitness-invites-teens-to-work-out-for-free-all-summer-long/65-4e04de6e-a5e1-4aae-a48c-929ab29e4e1b |
U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols is the only judge to dismiss obstruction charges against Capitol riot defendants. The DOJ wants him to reconsider.
WASHINGTON — A federal judge said Tuesday he is still “very seriously contemplating” the government’s request to reconsider his position on the obstruction charge hundreds of Capitol riot defendants are facing.
To date, U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols is the only judge on the D.C. District Court to dismiss charges of obstructing an official proceeding against any of the more than 700 defendants now charged in the riot. In a March order dismissing the count against Garrett Miller, of Texas, Nichols relied on a narrow reading of the statute — 18 USC § 1512(c)(2) — that would require a defendant to be accused of taking “some action with respect to a document, record or other object” in order to corruptly obstruct the joint session of Congress on Jan. 6. Nichols stuck to that reading in February when he dismissed the same obstruction charge in the case against another defendant, Pennsylvania police officer Joseph W. Fischer.
None of Nichols’ colleagues on the court have adopted his reading of the law, which was passed as part of a series of post-Enron reforms in 2002. Since his ruling, however, dozens of defendants in other Capitol riot cases have cited Nichols’ decision in motions asking to have the obstruction charges against them thrown out.
At least one of Nichols’ colleagues, U.S. District Judge John Bates, has written an opinion saying he thought Nichols’ interpretation was wrong. And last month, federal prosecutors filed a motion asking Nichols to reconsider his ruling. They argue Nichols incorrectly applied the rule of lenity – a legal principle requiring judges to rule on any ambiguities in the law in a defendant’s favor – because no other judges on the court have found the law unclear.
Fischer’s attorneys, who joined him in court Tuesday for a motion hearing, have urged Nichols not to reconsider his ruling. They argued in a response motion last month that nothing has changed to warrant reconsideration.
“There is certainly no contention that there has been an intervening change in the law – in fact, it is a penumbra of uncertainty that surrounded § 1512(c)(2)’s scope that invited the numerous legal challenges to its use in the January 6 prosecutions,” Fischer’s attorneys wrote.
In court Tuesday, though, Nichols said he didn’t want to hear additional arguments on reconsideration at that time – noting he was “still very seriously contemplating it.” Judges routinely agree to reconsider issues like bond and pretrial release conditions – even if they don’t ultimately reverse their positions – but granting a motion to reconsider a question of law as significant as the one in the Miller and Fischer cases would be far more unusual, and could have wide-ranging ramifications for outstanding motions in dozens of other Capitol riot cases.
Nichols did not rule on the motion Tuesday, instead focusing on several other motions before him, including similar requests from both Fischer and a second defendant, Jeffrey McKellop, for a change of venue.
McKellop, a Special Forces veteran accused of throwing a flagpole like a spear at police on Jan. 6, asked Nichols to move his case to the Western District of Virginia, where he lived until his arrest. His attorney, John Kiyonaga, argued in court that potential jurors in D.C. have been too personally affected by the Capitol riot and the months of National Guard presence that followed to rule impartially. Kiyonaga also pointed to intense media coverage of the case, which he argued further biased potential jurors.
One of Fischer’s attorneys, Amanda Gaynor, presented Nichols with similar arguments along with a survey the Federal Public Defender’s Office commissioned which found a high percentage of potential jurors in D.C. had exposure to Jan. 6 itself or media coverage of the event.
“I think the baked-in prejudices we identified in the survey are only going to get worse,” Gaynor said.
Nichols appeared unconvinced, however, and said as much — telling the attorneys it was his “strong inclination” to hold the change-of-venue motions until trial, at which point he could determine if potential jurors were unreasonably biased during voir dire. Nichols also pointed out that four jury trials had already successfully been held in D.C. for Capitol riot defendants, most recently former NYPD officer Thomas Webster, who was convicted of six counts on Monday.
“It seems to me the implication of your argument is that every single one of these Jan. 6 cases should be transferred venues… that D.C. is the only place none of these trials should occur,” Nichols said.
“It is,” Gaynor conceded.
After saying he would hold the venue motions and other requests to limit character evidence for now, Nichols denied a motion from Fischer to dismiss additional counts against him. He also denied a motion to dismiss the indictment against McKellop, who argued he was being selectively prosecuted because charges had been dropped in some cases connected to protests in Portland in 2020. Nichols said there were “obvious differences” between the two situations.
Finally, Nichols said he would issue a written order at a future date on the government’s request to prevent McKellop from presenting a self-defense theory at trial. McKellop hadn’t yet indicated in court filings whether he intended to pursue self-defense as an affirmative defense in his case, and his attorney, Kiyonaga, said he didn’t believe they were obligated to inform the government of their decision on that either way. Webster, the former NYPD officer convicted Monday, unsuccessfully argued self-defense in his case. | 2022-05-03T21:08:56Z | www.wusa9.com | Judge who tossed obstruction charge 'contemplating' reconsidering | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/national/capitol-riots/judge-very-seriously-contemplating-reconsidering-order-throwing-out-obstruction-charges-carl-nichols-jeffrey-mckellop-joseph-fischer-garrett-miller/65-224d476c-9625-4bf3-b423-813420c7733f | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/national/capitol-riots/judge-very-seriously-contemplating-reconsidering-order-throwing-out-obstruction-charges-carl-nichols-jeffrey-mckellop-joseph-fischer-garrett-miller/65-224d476c-9625-4bf3-b423-813420c7733f |
Fairfax City’s school board announced that Jeff Platenberg will become the new superintendent following the retirement of Dr. Phyllis Pajardo in late June.
FAIRFAX, Va. — Editor's Note: The video above was published on May 2, 2022.
Beginning in July, schools in City of Fairfax will have a new Superintendent.
On Monday, Fairfax City’s school board announced that Jeff Platenberg will become the new Superintendent following the retirement of Dr. Phyllis Pajardo in late June, according to a press release.
Platengurg is currently the assistant superintendent for Fairfax County Public Schools for the facilities and transportation services. Some of his other former positions that were listed in the release consist of being the assistant superintendent for accountability and information communication technologies for Lexington County School District One in South Carolina and deputy superintendent of support services for Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools in Georgia.
Platenberg has earned an academic certification in educational facility planning from San Diego State University, bachelor’s degree in public administration from George Mason University and a master’s degree in human resource development from Webster University, according to the release.
City of Fairfax School Board Chair, Carolyn Pitches says she looks forward to working with Platenberg and further explains that the board wants to modernize their facilities and increase opportunities for all students.
“Jeff Platenberg brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge of facilities, school renovations and budget leadership to the City of Fairfax Schools,” Pitches said.
RELATED: Fairfax County Fire Captain dies from occupational cancer, honors with mural | 2022-05-03T22:41:00Z | www.wusa9.com | Fairfax City names Jeff Platenburg as new superintendent | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/education/fairfax-city-school-board-jeff-platenberg-as-new-superintendent/65-86d2a45f-2b65-4832-b90a-5e0ef09c2264 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/education/fairfax-city-school-board-jeff-platenberg-as-new-superintendent/65-86d2a45f-2b65-4832-b90a-5e0ef09c2264 |
A new campaign video posted to Twitter by Trayon White calls the city's ticketing practices "predatory."
WASHINGTON — An issue that every driver in the DMV can relate to is now a highlight of one D.C. mayoral campaign. Mayoral candidate, and current Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, released a campaign video on social media where he made a promise to the people: ticket forgiveness.
In a video posted to Twitter Tuesday, White stands outside the Fish Market at the Wharf, calls himself the people's choice for mayor and explains how he will put people over politics, if elected.
“What I’m hearing time and time again is ticketing in D.C. has become predatory," White said. "We love our workers who give out tickets, but it’s not about them -- it’s about creating an equitable place where people can take their kids to school, shop and live in our city without the stresses of these tickets, so we’re cutting tickets in half.”
WUSA9 spoke to D.C. voters who said they would like to see a drop in fines. According to the DC Regulations website, tickets with late fees can cost you up to $200. WUSA9 asked the city agencies in charge of ticketing about the revenue collected, but did not get the data by deadline.
Jared Kassoff, a property manager in D.C., said he just received a $150 ticket outside of one property.
“It was because I don’t have a license plate in the front of my car, which I was told repeatedly by Maryland that that was OK,” Kassoff said. "During COVID [District leaders] put a moratorium on tickets for a long time and it just helped everybody out. Now it feels like they are making up for it.”
But ticket forgiveness is not a priority for every voter, including Ian Brown who lives in Ward 8 with his wife and baby.
“It’s not my biggest concern - it’s the crime,” said Brown. “It’s the young people who don’t have anything to do after school and are literally running around rampant with guns.”
WUSA9 reached out to all the Mayoral candidates for comment, but only one candidate responded.
James Butler responded in an email, writing that while he agrees ticket costs could come down, “…it’s reckless to do away with or reduce red light and speeding ticket. We must get reciprocity to punish Maryland or Virginia drivers who drive recklessly on our streets because it cost lives.”
While White’s campaign didn’t clarify which tickets he proposes to slash, he points to the District’s surplus and said the city simply doesn’t need the added revenue.
RELATED: This DC car has more than $10,000 of fines, so why is it still on the road?
RELATED: 'You may run, but you can't hide' | DC Dept. of Public Works tows away car with $70k in outstanding tickets | 2022-05-04T00:15:12Z | www.wusa9.com | DC Mayoral candidate makes campaign promise to slash tickets | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/campaign-promise-of-ticket-forgiveness-in-dc-trayon-white-mayoral-race/65-ab4bd4b3-a375-4af9-a96b-dd37552149d7 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/campaign-promise-of-ticket-forgiveness-in-dc-trayon-white-mayoral-race/65-ab4bd4b3-a375-4af9-a96b-dd37552149d7 |
A number of local officials have spoken out after Politico shared a draft opinion suggesting the court could be poised to overturn the landmark abortion ruling.
Author: Brielle Ashford (WUSA9), Laura Wainman
WASHINGTON — Politicians across D.C., Maryland and Virginia have put out statements after a groundbreaking Politico report shared a draft decision suggesting the court could be poised to overturn Roe v. Wade in the coming months. The leaked draft, reported late Monday, represented an extremely rare breach of the court’s secretive deliberation process.
The 98-page document was labeled a “1st Draft” of the “Opinion of the Court” in the "Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization" case challenging Mississippi’s ban on abortion after 15 weeks. It appears to be written by Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr, appointed under George W. Bush. Chief Justice John Roberts confirmed the authenticity of the leaked draft opinion Tuesday and promised an investigation.
“To the extent this betrayal of the confidences of the Court was intended to undermine the integrity of our operations, it will not succeed," the chief justice said. "I have directed the Marshal of the Court to launch an investigation into the source of the leak.”
The unprecedented leak sent shockwaves across the nation and galvanized activists on both sides of the aisle, with protesters chanting outside the nation's high court into the wee hours of the morning. Now, both sides are mobilizing to defend or defeat the decision that appears to have been made in the political arena. While Republicans seemed to take issue predominantly with the leak itself, and what that says about respect of the Court, Democrats decried the dismantling of Roe v. Wade for what it means for the future of women's rights.
"We cannot leave our children, our girls a less free society than the one we were born into," D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said. "What America will we leave our girls?"
Read reactions from local leaders across the DMV below.
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R)
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D)
“Last night, Americans were rocked by the news that this Supreme Court was prepared to overturn Roe v. Wade, which for decades has made access to abortion a constitutional right in America. Even for everyone who's been bracing for this decision since 2016, it was shocking and terrifying. And in D.C., we know that the stakes are even higher because even if the courts allow states to decide abortion policy, that won't apply here to the 700,000 people who call D.C. home. We have seen before what happens when Congress intervenes in our ability to provide health care. Hundreds of D.C. residents died because of Congress's ban on needle exchange programs in the district. We know this because when that ban was lifted, drug-related HIV cases plummeted by 99%. That tells us what we already know: the government shouldn't be in the business of blocking access to health care. And we know that overturning Roe v Wade, and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, is just the beginning. We know that this decision will fall hardest on those with the fewest resources. We also know that even in states that ban abortions, they will still happen. They won't be safe. And the bottom line is this -- women in the United States of America, women everywhere, should have control over their own bodies. We know that a majority of Americans support a woman's right to choose, and a majority of Americans believe that women and girls should not be forced to carry a pregnancy. We also know that we cannot leave our children, our girls, a less free society than the one we were born into. For many of us, that's what this is exactly about; what America will we leave our girls? Congress must act now. It's time for action. It's time to codify the rights in Roe v. Wade into national law. It's time to stop letting senators hold our nation hostage. And it's time to make us the 51st state where our senators will be able to speak for us and protect women and girls in Washington, D.C. I also want to state this clearly, that Washington D.C. is a pro-choice city. Last night's news didn't change that. Women still have access to care in D.C. We are ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with the hundreds of millions of Americans who share this value and share it deeply and are willing to fight for it and willing to protect it.”
…but her emails.
— Muriel Bowser (@MurielBowser) May 3, 2022
Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh (D)
“The draft opinion of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade is a dangerous departure from 50 years of precedent. If adopted by a majority of the Court, the decision will undermine the rights of women to control their own bodies and their health care. It will subject survivors of abuse, rape and incest to additional trauma by preventing them from accessing abortions. And, as usual, a decision overturning Roe will have the most harmful and lasting impact on women of color and on poor women, many of whom already lack meaningful access to safe, affordable reproductive health care. A decision overturning Roe also has broader implications for our modern society, threatening the rights of all Americans to make private decisions about their lives without government interference and endangering the hard-fought rights of LGBTQ Americans. The Supreme Court is about to take a deep dive into politics, something it appropriately and historically avoids. As citizens, it is more important than ever that we demand better from those who hold power in our institutions and that we hold our elected officials accountable for their role in protecting our rights. Elected officials in Maryland have protected women’s rights for more than three decades, and I am proud to have been a part of those efforts both as a legislator and as the Attorney General. I am especially proud of having voted to codify Roe v. Wade in the House of Delegates in 1991 and for the work that our office has done to protect and expand access to reproductive health care services across Maryland. I am optimistic that our state will continue to be a champion for the rights of women to make their own health care decisions, and that it will continue to protect the rights to privacy for all Marylanders.”
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares' spokesperson Victoria LaCivita
“This leak was an unprecedented breach of trust intended to undermine the Supreme Court. At this time, the draft opinion is just that - a draft. The Attorney General will respect whatever decision the Court makes.”
Ward 7 Councilmember Vincent C. Gray (D)
"The District of Columbia will preserve and protect the rights of women to make healthcare choices for themselves. Period. It is also time for Democrats to unite and end the filibuster in the U.S. Senate. Ending the filibuster is the only way to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act, which will undo the damage done by overturning Roe v. Wade. Furthermore, Democrats must not look past the ongoing denial of civil rights and voting rights long-suffered by residents of the District of Columbia. With statehood, we will elect two Democratic Senators, therefore adding to the Democratic majority and better protecting the rights of all Americans."
Rep. Abigail Spamberger (D-VA 7th District)
Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD 5th District)
"If the Supreme Court’s Republican-appointed justices indeed strike down Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, it would be the most egregious assault on women’s rights and equality, women’s access to health care, and every American’s right to privacy in generations. I truly hope that the Court does not take the drastic and dangerous step outlined in the alleged draft decision leaked yesterday evening and return us to a reality where one’s means to travel across state lines will determine one’s freedom to seek reproductive health care. Already, Republican-led states have severely restricted women’s health care access and sought to criminalize the actions of women seeking care and those who provide that care. If it does take that step, however, House Democrats will do whatever we can, working closely with Senate Democrats and the Biden-Harris Administration, to affirm women’s right to access abortion care safely and legally in every corner of our country. Republican senators who voted to confirm these justices - on the promise that they would not overturn fifty years of precedent on this issue of privacy rights - must join Democrats in taking action to protect the right of every woman to make decisions about her reproductive health care. They will bear responsibility for any impact of such a ruling on the millions of women they represent. I urge the Senate to take urgently needed action to protect the rights of women, remove the filibuster, and codify Roe v. Wade into law as soon as possible.”
Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano (D)
"I will never prosecute a woman for making her own healthcare decisions."
The horrifying draft SCOTUS opinion would not only end the constitutional right to abortion but threaten other constitutional rights.
It’s also a unique threat to DC women. A Republican Congress could ban abortion in DC.#HandsOffDC #DCStatehood
— Eleanor #DCStatehood Holmes Norton (@EleanorNorton) May 3, 2022
Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD 3rd District)
"If the draft opinion striking down Roe v. Wade stands, it will put the health, wellbeing and constitutional rights of women across this nation in great jeopardy. Should the court continue on this path, people in more than half of the states would immediately lose access to safe, legal abortion. Low-income families and those without the means to leave their homes for care in states like Maryland will be the most burdened. No level of government, whether federal, state or local, nor Congress, the President, or the Supreme Court, should interfere in personal health decisions. Despite testifying before Congress under oath that Supreme Court precedents should stand, the recently appointed conservative members of the court arrived with an agenda to overturn Roe and now they are making that a reality. Senate Republicans bear responsibility for confirming justices far outside of the legal mainstream, as well as for changing the rules for considering vacancies after the death of Justice Scalia compared to the death of Justice Ginsburg. Congress and the Biden administration must take swift action to protect personal reproductive and health rights for Americans. From Maryland to Mississippi, Florida to Washington State, there should be a common standard for self-determination of health decisions for women and all individuals.”
PHOTOS: Protests over abortion at the U.S. Supreme Court | 2022-05-04T00:15:19Z | www.wusa9.com | Lawmakers react to leaked Supreme Court draft abortion ruling | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/reactions-leaked-supreme-court-draft-opinion-on-overturning-roe-v-wade/65-d0723727-541f-4bf6-99d0-4029a3181f60 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/reactions-leaked-supreme-court-draft-opinion-on-overturning-roe-v-wade/65-d0723727-541f-4bf6-99d0-4029a3181f60 |
With the Roe v. Wade on the verge of being overturned, conservative pro-life groups are hopeful Republicans will take full control of the statehouse in 2023.
FILE - This Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, file photo shows the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond, Va. A Virginia legislative branch agency has been hit by a ransomware attack, Gov. Ralph Northam's office said Monday, Dec. 13, 2021. The timing of the attack is particularly problematic, as lawmakers and staff are deep into preparations for a legislative session set to start in January. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)
RICHMOND, Va. — The future of abortion in Virginia may depend on what happens in the state Senate next year.
Shortly after Politico shared its report Monday suggesting Roe v. Wade could soon be overturned, Virginia Democrats hopped on social media to express the importance the Virginia Senate will hold in 2023.
Virginia Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn, D-Fairfax, tweeted that the Commonwealth is only one state Senate seat away from becoming the next state to ban abortion.
“We must take back our House majority and expand our majority in the Senate to protect the rights of women across the Commonwealth,” she said.
Virginia Abortion | The '23 VA Sen. elections will be very important if Roe v. Wade's overturned. GOP has Governor's seat & House. Dems hold Senate 21-19. Pro-choice candidate @lashrecseaird is taking on pro-life Sen. Joe Morrissey in Dem. primary.(@wusa9)https://t.co/p0iQLihm0v pic.twitter.com/YDFMqkk34y
Virginia Senator and President Pro tempore Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, chimed in on the matter as well.
“My number one priority is maintaining a woman’s right to choose,” Lucas tweeted. “In Virginia, that means preserving our pro-choice majority in the Virginia Senate. Period. There is nothing else we can do that would have anywhere near the impact of keeping the Senate.”
Earlier this year, Virginia Delegate Nick Freitas, R-Culpeper, introduced a bill that would ban abortions after twenty weeks of gestation.
Freitas’ legislation did not get out of House. However, at the time of its introduction, pro-life Virginia Senator Joe Morrissey, D-Richmond, said he was inclined to support the proposal.
“I have supported fetal pain bills since my days in the House of Delegates,” he said.
Virginia Abortion | Pro-life group The Family Foundation (@TFFVA) sees the VA Senate as split on abortion issue due to Dems like Morrissey. President Veronica Cobb said abortion should be left up to the states & that voters are tired of "extreme" Democratic measures. (@wusa9) pic.twitter.com/cRWNWUZi9q
Morrissey’s stance on abortion has also fueled some Democrats’ concerns as to what lies ahead for the practice of abortion in the Commonwealth.
Former pro-choice Virginia Delegate Lashrecse Aird, D-Petersburg, is challenging Morrissey for his seat in the state Senate in 2023.
She said Politico’s reporting changed the nature of her race against Morrissey.
“It makes it very clear that this race is no longer just another traditional race,” she said. “In Virginia, it really is the difference between the protections for access to reproductive rights and not.”
Aird admitted she now feels additional pressure to win.
“But it is pressure that I am fiercely taking on because I do feel as though this is a matter between individuals’ safety, [and] their ability to seek the care that they deserve, which is a fundamental human right,” she said.
WUSA9 reached out to Morrissey for comment on the senate race, but we have yet to receive a response.
Still, anti-abortion groups are preparing to fight for control of the senate in Virginia too.
Virginia Abortion | Reporters questioned pro-life Virginia Governor @GlennYoungkin as to what he would like to see happen in the Commonwealth if Roe v. Wade is ultimately overturned. He said, "at this point, I don't want to speculate". (@wusa9) pic.twitter.com/qZISEgj8Bk
Veronica Cobb, President of pro-life group The Family Foundation, said she is cautiously optimistic about what the future holds.
She said the issue goes beyond party lines in the Virginia Senate as its members, currently, appear to be evenly split on abortion.
“There's a lot of places where I think we can find agreement,” Cobb said. “Common sense restrictions, I think is a place where the conversation could bring unity rather than the difficult division that it often sees.”
She added having Republicans in control of the Virginia Senate would also open the possibility for more pro-life bills to get out of committee. Right now, since Democrats hold the Senate, they also control all of its committees.
“What we see is there's extremism in control of the Senate,” she said. “So, yes, its elections are going to be really powerful when we see the next Senate opportunity, the next opportunity for voters to make decisions around who's going to represent us in the Senate.”
Reporters asked Governor Glenn Youngkin what he would do if the Supreme Court did ultimately decide to overturn Roe v. Wade.
The Republican governor, who has previously said he is pro-life, said it is too early to tell.
“At this point, I don’t want to speculate on what we’ll do,” he said. “We don’t have a final decision yet.”
Cobb said she thought it was unfair that Youngkin should have to answer a hypothetical question about what he may do in the future regarding the issue of abortion.
“It's interesting that pro-life governors are always asked to go into the hypothetical and go to the full extremes, but when pro-abortion governors say they're willing to take human life after it's born, they're rarely challenged,” she said. “And, so, Governor Youngkin is simply looking at the reality and saying, ‘why am I going to answer hypotheticals when we have a long road to go.” | 2022-05-04T01:43:28Z | www.wusa9.com | VA Senate elections could determine future of abortion in state | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/upcoming-va-senate-elections-could-determine-future-of-abortion-in-the-commonwealth/65-eac5281f-140f-4227-8cbe-7b25131d01f8 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/upcoming-va-senate-elections-could-determine-future-of-abortion-in-the-commonwealth/65-eac5281f-140f-4227-8cbe-7b25131d01f8 |
Warm Wednesday with isolated rain, thunderstorms
MPD launched the Community Focused Patrol Unit of officers on bikes in July 2021 to target areas with the highest crime rates. The cops say they’re seeing success.
WASHINGTON — In response to juveniles committing and being victims of crime in D.C., a new patrol unit on bikes is working to connect with them to keep them away from violence in the first place.
Officers who are part of the initiative say it’s working.
“I love it. I absolutely love it,” Officer Anthony Attardo said.
Attardo is part of the new Community Focused Patrol Unit that DC Police launched in July 2021. It consists of 27 officers on mountain bikes tasked with patrolling some of the highest crime areas in the District.
Right now, police said they are targeting Columbia Heights, Washington Highlands and Bloomingdale, but said those areas will gradually change as they analyze data in real-time.
“We're able to smell, we're able to see things, we're able to hear,” Sgt. Mohamed Ibrahim said. “With our bikes, we’re just more approachable, OK, it gives the public a sense of comfort.”
It also offers them a way to connect with kids face-to-face, who are increasingly committing violence in D.C., while they, their friends, and family simultaneously become victims of crime.
The day before WUSA9 met up with Sgt. Ibrahim and the unit in Columbia Heights, 15-year-old Malachi Jackson was shot to death there while he was out for a run.
DC Police Chief Contee announces: “Community Focused Patrol Unit”
•Officers on bikes and scooters
•Initially targeting Columbia Heights, Wash. Highlands, Bloomingdale
•Says since 10/20, MPD lost 200+ officers and trying to use resources effectively @wusa9 pic.twitter.com/3fKnYYcQBf
— Lorenzo Hall (@LorenzoHall) July 21, 2021
“It's definitely a challenge,” Sgt. Ibrahim said. “But all you could do is try to be out there, give support, and give trust.”
They say it’s throwing a kid a ball or checking in with vendors on Irving Street that will make a difference.
“This is definitely an answer. This is definitely an answer,” the sergeant said. “You know, every juvenile is different. We try to hear them out… We just want to have one positive interaction that they say, 'Wow, MPD was here for me.'”
Police said this route kicks the summer and fall crime initiatives up a gear.
RELATED: MPD launching new patrol unit, trying something new to combat city’s violent crime
D.C. Police Chief Robert Contee said the areas those programs focused on saw a 20% decrease in violent crime in the summer of 2021 and an 11% decrease in the fall.
“We've been unfortunately, well, fortunately in the right place at the right time. About a month ago, some of our officers they caught a robbery …Our officers also made an arrest for an assault,” Sgt. Ibrahim said. “From our presence being out there, we've made some great cases.”
Police said they don’t have the stats yet on the unit’s impact, but the officers who are part of the unit said they see the success every day.
“Well, when the neighborhood and the community ask for you specifically, that's always a good feeling to have, you know, and you can tell you know when people are happy to see you,” Officer Attardo said. “They’re smiling ‘Hey, Officer,’ you know, and they'll stop, they'll ask you questions, they'll engage with you.”
“I love to be here. I love to engage with the community,” Sgt. Ibrahim said. “If we could make one difference in someone's life. I'm happy with that.”
So, in communities rattled by violence, they’ll continue to peddle peace.
D.C. Police said they will be able to provide more concrete data on the unit at the end of July because that will mark one year since its creation.
Police have announced other initiatives in 2022 targeting violent crime, including the Violent Crime Impact Team, which is a partnership with federal partners, like the ATF, FBI, and DEA.
The city also launched People of Promise, which targets 200 residents that the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform identified as being at the highest risk of involvement in gun violence in DC.
Furthermore, the mayor announced more investment in parks and recreation, which kids and their families alike have requested for years. | 2022-05-04T10:55:15Z | www.wusa9.com | DC Police community patrol unit on bikes says seeing success | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-police-community-focused-patrol-units-see-success/65-810b1f7e-7b9e-4b02-b416-2d58d6705179 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-police-community-focused-patrol-units-see-success/65-810b1f7e-7b9e-4b02-b416-2d58d6705179 |
The DC Metro region doesn't have enough affordable housing units to keep up with the growing demand.
“I was able, from that first job, to buy a home on E Street," Nicoletti said. "I actually owned that home for 11 years. But I couldn't keep it up. I couldn't keep up the payments. I ended up in a one-bedroom apartment, I could afford for about a year and a half. And then after that, I lived out of my car doing house sitting.”
Nicoletti represents a growing population of residents throughout the DMV who either can't afford or are spending most of their income on housing expenses. Data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition shows the Washington metropolitan region has a shortage of more than 126,000 affordable rental units. The demand is only worsening as rents skyrocket.
The average rental prices throughout Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. remain above the national average of $2,000 a month for a two-bedroom apartment. The District tops the region where the average two-bedroom costs $3,100 a month. As the cost to rent increases, thousands of people are finding themselves unable to afford a place of their own.
Nicoletti was one of them.
“My work as a writer, as a performer, or somebody whose work as a carpenter…it's not valued the same way as if I had chosen to be a lawyer or a doctor,” Nicoletti emphasized.
After months of bartering and house sitting, Nicoletti was able to get an apartment with Jubilee Housing, an organization that provides affordable housing and community resources to those who need it.
“I have a residence that's safe, that I can afford out of my Social Security, with the community and with guidance of other services,” Nicoletti said with a smile on her face. “I have a little studio with a window that looks all the way down to the Washington Monument. And I'm like, Oh, my God, I have a view…not another brick wall.”
More affordable housing units are being constructed throughout the metro but it’s still not keeping up with demand. Jubilee Housing has 10 properties in use and five more on way. But while families wait, it puts pressure on organizations that manage long waiting lists and expectations.
“We're always full,” said Jubilee Housing's President/CEO Jim Knight. “The waitlists only open periodically, and it's typically when we're bringing a new property online."
One of its properties, The Maycroft, opened to residents in 2019 and within hours was filled.
Several counties in the region are doing their best to work through the crisis, providing additional housing assistance or, like D.C., investing $400 million into the housing production trust.
The efforts are appreciated, say beneficiaries like Nicoletti, especially when it comes to maintaining one’s dignity.
“I feel like the universe said, okay, you've had 50 years of trying to make enough money to live on and do your creative work," Nicoletti explain. "We're gonna give you a rest."
'It is quite unusual' | DC metro homebuyers fight against all-cash offers | 2022-05-04T12:26:53Z | www.wusa9.com | Affordable housing scarce in the DMV | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/money/affordable-housing-options-dc-maryland-virginia-hard-to-come-by/65-ae04a580-99de-4f1a-b15c-28cc6a786aec | https://www.wusa9.com/article/money/affordable-housing-options-dc-maryland-virginia-hard-to-come-by/65-ae04a580-99de-4f1a-b15c-28cc6a786aec |
Yes, affordable housing is scarce and the situation is growing desperate
Report: The DMV needs more than 125k new affordable housing units to keep up with demand
The Wendt Center has worked with thousands of families over the years, including Qiana Wright's. Her infant daughter and brother were killed two years apart.
WASHINGTON — it's been a battle to smile again from the inside for Qiana Wright. Her infant daughter and brother were killed within two years of each other.
“I smile, because they’re smiling in the pictures, but my heart breaks," she said.
Her nine-month-old daughter, Savannah, was killed in 2015 through alleged child neglect at daycare.
Two years later, her brother, Brian was shot to death after a workplace dispute in DC.
"My heart breaks every time I walk past this, but they’re smiling at me, and I’m smiling right back at them," Wright said, gesturing toward a memorial she created for the two in her living room. “Just with me sitting, talking to you now shows that progress was made.”
Her three other kids weren't quite ready to talk, but they have been opening up to the Wendt Center for Healing and Loss in DC.
The executive director of the group says they help people heal from life's worst moments.
“The walls of this center are full of heartbreaking stories from kids who have been exposed to and experience things that just, you can't imagine that kids get exposed to and experience," Executive Director, Michelle Palmer said. "And it is almost always related to gun violence.”
Palmer said they give kids tools to address that trauma.
“There's a lot of conversation now about this false narrative that somebody is either a perpetrator or a victim, that there's an either or, when the reality is that most oftentimes, they are both," she said. "So many people are just going around the world, thinking that they don't matter. And I think that when you think you don't matter, it becomes really easy to think that other people don't matter.”
@CHHCS & @WendtCenter have partnered to provide trainings and materials on grief, loss and trauma among children and youth. This resource provides tips for teachers & staff in schools on having conversations with students of different age groups. https://t.co/nQqAHlgDR0 pic.twitter.com/RzIYPKrxV2
— Wendt Center (@wendtcenter) April 13, 2022
Palmer said the biggest resource the DMV needs more of is therapists.
"We need clinicians who are trauma trained in the modalities that we know help kids heal from trauma," she said "And that is hard. Getting trained on those is super expensive, and it's very time intensive.”
Palmer said the wait to see one of their clinicians can be up to 12 months.
So, the center started its own training institute last year to increase the capacity of therapists, school staff, and others on helping kids handle trauma.
“Because when you are in pain, to be told that you have to wait to heal is just, it's intolerable," she said.
Palmer said the most important thing the city can do to better support providers like the Wendt Center is to fund them.
For the past few years, Palmer said the money agencies like theirs get from DC's Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants has stayed the same.
“Usually an agency can absorb a year-ish, maybe two of flat funding if inflation stays fairly steady, but it hasn’t, and so we are facing an absolute crisis in the victim service provider community," Palmer said.
The director of OVSJG told WUSA 9 that could happen to providers for a number of reasons: some of the money they receive has to go to specific initiatives; the office has been working to diversify who they award grants to, so more groups are receiving money; money they get from the federal government has decreased in recent years; and they focus on victims of crime, specifically.
The Wendt Center works with families suffering from death and loss in any capacity.
“We see less people because we can’t afford to, and so there’s a lot of really I think worrisome implications," Palmer said.
The director of OVSJG said, "We recognize the challenges that providers are having, which is why the mayor has made specific investments in the FY23 budget for victims services in general as well as increased funding for sexual assault services, services for victims of gun violence, additional funding for victims of domestic violence as well. And we anticipate that we'll be able to respond to the needs of providers."
She also said the council is planning to make additional investments up to $11 million as well in the OVSJG budget.
Still, Palmer said many groups like theirs need more funding, and without it, families like the Wrights may not be able to get help.
“To be able to give free resources to families is really important," Qiana Wright said. "Who can think about money if your world has just been rocked by some type of grief or trauma?"
She said the center has impacted her entire family's lives.
“The Wendt center...," she paused, "saves lives."
The center also runs what's called Camp Forget-Me-Not for kids who have had a close relative die.
In the summer of 2021, Palmer said the number one cause of death for those relatives among the younger campers was a homicide. She said that's the first time that's happened in years. | 2022-05-04T12:26:59Z | www.wusa9.com | center says dc needs more trauma therapists to help kids | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/kids-in-crisis-dc-healing-loss-center-more-trauma-therapists-needed-help-kids/65-1f1c75cc-8339-4a0f-99d8-eac10901a858 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/kids-in-crisis-dc-healing-loss-center-more-trauma-therapists-needed-help-kids/65-1f1c75cc-8339-4a0f-99d8-eac10901a858 |
The boys were both arrested by members of the Montgomery County Department of Police – Repeat Offenders Unit.
FREDERICK, Md. — After a man was killed in a shooting in late April, Montgomery County Police announced Wednesday that they have arrested and charged two young teens in his death.
Police found 20-year-old Taon Lamont Cline of Frederick, Maryland suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in the 19500 block of Gunners Branch Road in Germantown on April 22, just before 11 p.m. Officers say they immediately tried to save the man, but Cline ultimately died on the scene.
On Wednesday, police announced that they obtained an arrest warrant to charge two suspects as adults, although they are 14 and 15 years old.
The pair have been identified, respectively, as Justin Acosta from Germantown and Malik Hney of Kensington. Both have been charged with first-degree murder.
Hney and Acosta were both arrested by members of the Montgomery County Department of Police Repeat Offenders Unit and subsequently taken to the Central Processing Unit.
Police have since announced that the investigation is still active and ongoing. Detectives from the Major Crimes Division are asking anyone who has information about this homicide to call the Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070 or contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Callers can remain anonymous. | 2022-05-04T17:04:03Z | www.wusa9.com | Teen boys charged in Frederick man's death | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-teen-boys-charged-in-frederick-mans-death-shooting/65-ab39efab-8e11-4469-aab5-035c6c08ca62 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-teen-boys-charged-in-frederick-mans-death-shooting/65-ab39efab-8e11-4469-aab5-035c6c08ca62 |
Prince William County Police seized several guns and more than 5,000 suspected counterfeit fentanyl-laced Percocet pills. Four men were arrested.
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — Just a week after two teens are suspected to have died from an overdose as a result of taking fake Percocet pills that were laced with fentanyl, police seized thousands of pills that are also believed to have been laced.
On April 27, Prince William County Police said a 15-year-old had died in Woodbridge and a 14-year-old died in Dale City. They shared that both deaths appeared to have been connected to the counterfeit pills, known as "Perc30," that were actually laced with fentanyl.
Wednesday, police announced a victory in the urge to get the dangerous fakes off the street: 5,000 were seized, along with a host of guns. Police cannot confirm if the two incidents are directly connected.
The department also announced the arrest of four men between the ages of 19 and 23, charged with crimes ranging from giving a firearm to a minor to possession with intent to distribute.
The investigation surrounding the two teens' deaths is still ongoing.
"The Police Department recognizes our youth population as most susceptible to peer influence and pressures," First Sergeant Jonathan Perok wrote in a press release from PWPD. "We implore parents and guardians to take immediate action to actively engage with their children and loved ones as soon as possible about the dangers of drug use and encourage constructive dialogue to prevent further deaths and illness."
'A second life' | DC Police officers share experiences reviving overdose victims | 2022-05-04T17:04:15Z | www.wusa9.com | Police seize thousands of counterfeit Percocet pills, guns | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/fentanyl-virginia-teens-died-from-counterfeit-percocet-pills-police-seize-thousands/65-210fdae1-50c5-47e2-96de-8049c126a7be | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/fentanyl-virginia-teens-died-from-counterfeit-percocet-pills-police-seize-thousands/65-210fdae1-50c5-47e2-96de-8049c126a7be |
On Wednesday evening, NVTA will host an open house prior to the Annual Northern Virginia Joint Transportation Meeting at VDOT’s NoVa District Offices
WASHINGTON — Editor's note: The above video is from April 26, 2022.
It could soon get easier to drive around the DMV. The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority is asking for public feedback on several dozen transportation projects submitted by jurisdictions across Northern Virginia, including Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun and Prince William counties.
With a combined request of more than $1.2 billion, the projects being considered cover various modes of transportation, including railway, Bus Rapid Transit, roadways, pedestrian/bicycle pathways and transportation technologies.
“Here in Northern Virginia we have various modes of transportation which is always a critical point because we know that living here and working here in this region, there is no single mode that’s going to solve the transportation problems that we experience. We are truly multi-mode, we look at roadways, we look at transit, we look at bike/pedestrian facilities and we look at electric vehicles,” said Monica Backmon the Chief Executive Officer for Northern Virginia Transportation Authority.
Right now, you can learn more about the different projects and share your feedback on the six-year program.
“Because of the way the funding bill that we utilize is structured, every project we fund with our revenues must be in the region’s long range transportation plan. The project has to be in that plan, which means it is already undergoing a high-level evaluation. Then you have the localities and agencies that go into that plan and look at their own needs and say here are some projects we have that we are ready to stand behind and push forward at this particular time. And that’s how the applications come forward,” said Backmon.
On Wednesday evening, NVTA will host an open house prior to the Annual Northern Virginia Joint Transportation Meeting. During the meeting, the public will be able to meet one-on-one with NVTA staff and jurisdictions who submitted projects for funding consideration.
The meeting will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Potomac Conference Room at VDOT’s NOVA District Offices at 4975 Alliance Drive in Fairfax Virginia.
“We are going to have an open house at 5:30 p.m. at the VDOT NOVA office so people can come down talk to us and talk to the project sponsors about the project if they want more information before they submit their written comments. We try to make sure we provide various opportunities to hear feedback from the public,” said Backmon.
📣We’re ready to hear from you! The public comment period for the NVTA FY2022-2027 Six Year Program is now open! We’re seeking your input on 26 candidate projects for regional funding consideration. To learn how you can provide comment, click here: https://t.co/s3Ub1xpMFi #NoVA pic.twitter.com/toLdm4lGdD
— Northern Virginia's Transportation Authority (@NVTAuthority) April 15, 2022
“We really want to hear from the public. All of this, what we do on our end and the technical evaluations, reviewing projects, we need to hear from the public. You are the users of this system, of this whole infrastructure and we want to hear from you. What can we do to improve your quality of life, reduce congestion and get you to where you need to be a little quicker,” said Backmon.
A public hearing is scheduled for May 12th at 7 o’clock p.m. at 3040 Williams Drive, Suite 200 in Fairfax Virginia. You can also participate virtually.
The public comment period started on April 15th and ends on May 22nd at midnight. The form with opportunities to give feedback can be found here.
RELATED: 'Fed up' | DC Circulator bus drivers go on strike Tuesday | 2022-05-04T17:04:21Z | www.wusa9.com | Public comment open for NoVa transit projects | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/submit-your-feedback-for-northern-virginia-transportation-projects/65-be33e72f-6018-4bc1-a5f1-a0ab490f8e62 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/submit-your-feedback-for-northern-virginia-transportation-projects/65-be33e72f-6018-4bc1-a5f1-a0ab490f8e62 |
DC ranked as best big city for public parks, Arlington ranked no. 3
Nonprofit index ranks DC as best big city for public parks, Arlington ranked no. 3
Going out on Cinco de Mayo? | Here's how you can score a free ride with the help of the SoberRide program
SoberRide program offering free rides in DMV for Cinco de Mayo
Here's how to score a free, safe ride on Cinco de Mayo
Lyft riders can get a free ride on Cinco de Mayo for up to $15 in the D.C. region.
WASHINGTON — Editor's note: The footage above was originally aired in May 2018.
Cinco de Mayo is here, and we know many Washingtonians will use it as a day to go out to celebrate, eat lots of food, and drink margaritas. But here's an important tip to remember: drive sober or get pulled over.
Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) is partnering up with Lyft to reduce drunk driving Thursday as people celebrate Cinco de Mayo. WRAP is a nonprofit organization founded in 1982, based in Falls Church, that works with local governments to try to end drunk driving and underage drinking in the D.C. metro area.
“Over a third of U.S. traffic deaths during Cinco de Mayo involve drunk drivers according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,” said WRAP President Kurt Erickson.
Beginning at 4 p.m., on May 5, anyone 21 and older can download the Lyft app and enter the SoberRide code in the app's "Payment" tab, which is located under the "Add Lyft Pass" option. The promo code will be posted on SoberRide's website at exactly 3 p.m. on Cinco De Mayo.
The promo code is valid for one free ride home in the D.C. area (up to $15), with the offer ending at 4 a.m. Friday (May 6).
Washington Regional Alcohol Program's SoberRide initiative is offered throughout the Washington D.C. coverage area which includes:
Glenarden
New Carrollton
“Lyft is dedicated to providing access to reliable and responsible rides, and we’re proud to partner with programs like WRAP to offer Lyft as an alternative to impaired driving,” said Kamillah Wood, Director of Public Policy for Community Safety at Lyft.
WRAP's SoberRide program has provided over 80,000 free safe rides home to possible drunk drivers since 1991 in the Greater Washington area. The organization offers residents in the area a safer way of getting home from a night of celebrating and drinking alcohol on occasions like Independence Day, Halloween, St. Patrick's Day and during the December and January holiday season.
And before you head out the door to celebrate, take a minute to bone up on the history of the day. Many Americans either do not know why Cinco de Mayo is celebrated or think it is Mexico’s Independence Day.
Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico's independence day, which is celebrated on Sept. 16. May 5 honors the Mexican Army’s win over the French in 1862.
Mexico was having trouble paying back debts it racked up during the war, and the French came to collect. Mexico was the underdog in that battle, therefore, it was a big deal when the country won.
Mexican celebration Day of the Dead comes to life for American retailers
The best food and drink deals for Cinco de Mayo! | 2022-05-04T20:05:46Z | www.wusa9.com | Free, sober rides offered on Cinco de Mayo across DMV | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/life/holidays/free-safe-rides-home-cinco-de-mayo-dont-drive-drunk/65-e51d0633-a369-4da7-8445-9f1b9c90a348 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/life/holidays/free-safe-rides-home-cinco-de-mayo-dont-drive-drunk/65-e51d0633-a369-4da7-8445-9f1b9c90a348 |
100 of America's largest cities were scored and ranked by Trust for Public Land's ParkScore index.
WASHINGTON — Washington, D.C. has landed in first place for best public parks out of the nation's 100 largest cities, according to an index created by Trust for Public Land.
Arlington was also recognized and scored the no. 3 spot. St. Paul, Minnesota, was sandwiched between the two.
The nonprofit measured park systems across five categories: access, investment, amenities, acreage and equity.
The following parks ranked in the top 12, starting with fourth place: Cincinnati, Minneapolis, Chicago, San Francisco, Irvine, Seattle, New York, Portland and Boston.
Beyond the ranking of 100 cities, the data behind the ParkScore index also reveals park access levels for nearly every city and town in the United States, the nonprofit said.
"Parks are essential for public health, climate resilience, and strong connected communities. And yet, 100 million people in the U.S.—including 28 million kids—don't have a park within a 10-minute walk of home," they specified on their website.
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RELATED: Kids and older adults jumping at the chance to start parkour classes in Alexandria | 2022-05-04T20:05:52Z | www.wusa9.com | DC ranked as best big city for public parks | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/washington-dc-is-the-best-big-city-for-public-parks-arlington-virginia/65-22e56f05-7ff7-457f-94f1-d15fff569b38 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/washington-dc-is-the-best-big-city-for-public-parks-arlington-virginia/65-22e56f05-7ff7-457f-94f1-d15fff569b38 |
'Pups in the Park' is an event where people can bring their dogs to a Washington Commanders game.
Prepare your pups, because the Nationals are once again hosting "Pups in the Park" where dogs and their humans can enjoy a baseball game in the District.
Those who choose to participate with their dogs will be seated in the Nationals’ pet-friendly outfield reserved section, according to a release from the Nationals. Additional details will be emailed to those who purchase tickets within 24 hours of the game, according to the release.
There are two separate tickets for this event: an owner ticket and a dog ticket. The owner ticket is priced at $35 and the dog ticket is $10. Proceeds from the dog ticket sales will be donated to the Humane Rescue Alliance.
RELATED: MLB scout sues Washington Nationals for vaccine-related firing
RELATED: Cal Ripken Jr. joins Gov. Hogan to open youth baseball field in Prince George's County | 2022-05-04T23:09:41Z | www.wusa9.com | You can bring your dog to a baseball game in DC | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/you-can-take-your-dog-out-to-the-ball-game-nationals-park/65-64395238-b880-4f2e-86fe-969b413d7454 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/you-can-take-your-dog-out-to-the-ball-game-nationals-park/65-64395238-b880-4f2e-86fe-969b413d7454 |
Gregory Odom Jr. is playing at TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm in the Wells Fargo Championship this weekend.
POTOMAC, Md. — EDITOR'S NOTE: WUSA9 is the media sponsor of the 2022 Wells Fargo Championship.
Gregory Odom Jr. is making history this week. The senior golfer at Howard University is set to become the first Bison to play in a PGA Tour event when he tees off at TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm for the Wells Fargo Championship.
Odom is playing as an amateur on a sponsor exemption.
“I was actually really shocked, and now I’m just happy that a company like Wells Fargo is giving me the opportunity to play in the PGA Tour tournament because it’s always been my dream and now my dream is coming true," he said.
Odom will tee off Thursday, and is ready to play alongside some of the best golfers in the world this week. His coach at Howard, Samuel Puryear Junior, said Odom getting the chance to live out his dream, gives hope to his teammates and peers.
“Now they see anything is possible," Puryear said. "All the hard work on days when no one is watching makes a difference because it all comes out in the wash. For the rest of the team, they are so excited. They’ll all be out here, following him, watching him play."
Tournament officials announced today that Gregory Odom Jr., a senior standout on the Howard University Men’s golf team, accepted a sponsor exemption to compete in the Wells Fargo Championship as the PGA TOUR returns to the DC area next month at TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm. pic.twitter.com/OcgSmifd91
— Howard Golf (@HUBison_Golf) April 19, 2022
Odom says he hopes to see, "Jordan Speith, Dustin Johnson, and all the big top 10 guys" when he plays.
"I’m just here to compete at the highest level so I want to play with those guys," Odom said, adding that it hasn't quite hit him yet, but he believes it will when he gets to the first hole, Thursday.
Puryear said he has high expectations for Odom.
“I’m excited for him but my expectations are so high, I might be kind of salty if he’s not making pars and birdies," his coach said. "I guess I’m supposed to just be happy he’s here but for me, why would I just be happy that he’s here? I want him to do really really well."
Three years ago, NBA All-Star Stephen Curry, rebooted Howard's golf programs.
"He has an amazing talent," Curry said upon learning that Odom would be making his Tour debut. "I'm excited for him."
Three years ago, @StephenCurry30 rebooted Howard University's men's and women's golf programs.
This week, Howard University alum Gregory Odom Jr. will make his TOUR debut. pic.twitter.com/UIUB7WHUXE
This week is a bittersweet one for Odom, as it marks the one year anniversary of his dad’s death. His father, Gregory Odom Sr., introduced him to golf when he was 4-years-old, and was a huge part of his success.
Odom says he still hears his dad's voice on the course.
"I think he would just say, that he would be very excited for me, and tell me to take my time and enjoy the experience. To just to slow down and just try to hit the best shot I can hit." | 2022-05-04T23:10:05Z | www.wusa9.com | Howard University golfer will play in PGA Tour event | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/howard-university-golfer-gregory-odom-jr-tpc-potomac-avenel-farm-wells-fargo-championship/65-919f1954-cb0a-4d5a-9e81-3d6a8aacaeed | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/howard-university-golfer-gregory-odom-jr-tpc-potomac-avenel-farm-wells-fargo-championship/65-919f1954-cb0a-4d5a-9e81-3d6a8aacaeed |
DC mayoral candidate says more boarding and vocational schools will keep streets safer
Councilmember At-Large Robert White said the plan calls for an adjustment in the budget for infrastructure improvements.
WASHINGTON — The D.C. primary election is just over a month away on June 21. So far, voters have identified safety, education, housing and jobs as a few of the core issues they'll be voting on this election.
On Tuesday, Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White made a campaign promise to put money back in voters' pockets by slashing traffic tickets. One day later, his opponent, Councilmember At-Large Robert White, released his own plan designed to address education, safety, and jobs.
DC police report violent crime is up 25% from this time last year. According to MPD’s latest data on juvenile arrests, more than 700 young people were charged with violent crimes between July and December 2021.
“The amount of young people that are in this area running around with guns and committing a lot of the crime is abysmal,” said native New Yorker and Ward 8 resident Ian Brown. "It reminds me of New York back in the ‘80s and ‘90s. It’s a shame that the Nation’s Capital has this type of crime in 202."
WUSA9 spoke to DC voters about what they need to see in their next mayor. Safety and education were top of mind.
“Too many students who do not plan to go to college drop out of high school or graduate without the tools to move into stable careers,” said White at Wednesday’s campaign announcement.
White believes his two-part education plan will keep our streets safer and get kids on a career path: Boarding school for those in need and vocational programs for all.
“I want the mayor to be intentional about increasing the quality of public education,” Brown said.
Raymond Bell, the CEO and founder of the H.O.P.E. Project (a job training program in D.C.), offered support for White's plan.
“Two thousand residents graduated from my program in IT, CDL and as security officers," Bell said. "The average salary of IT graduates is almost $70,000 a year. Most of them enrolled between ages of 18-24 and not a single one of them has been arrested for a violent crime since they graduated.”
According to the campaign, 30,000 D.C. students are considered at-risk, with less than 60% graduating high school. Campaign workers cite the local youth unemployment rate at 17% -- that’s 7% higher than the national average for 16 to 24-year-olds, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
“I graduated from a DC Public High School last year,” said 19-year-old Lyric Johnson. “I have now had multiple minimum wage jobs. Where are my opportunities? I cannot go into debt by going to college. My family and I cannot afford it. D.C. is and always will be my home, but will there be space for me in 4 years?”
White said, if elected, he will make the program among his first priorities and will appoint a team of students, parents, teachers, and labor leaders to develop an execution plan in the first 120 days in office.
“Folks in our city who want to stay here, they need good-paying careers and that means our schools have to be laser focused on getting all of our students in good-paying careers or college," White said. "Outside of those two trajectories we don’t stand a chance."
WUSA9 reached out to all Mayoral candidates for comment. Only James Butler sent a statement agreeing with more vocational programs but expressing some concern.
“This looks like another programmatic smokescreen, instead of providing real ways to keep D.C. Residents safe," Butler said.
RELATED: 2 DC mayoral candidates unveil crime initiatives ahead of primary | 2022-05-05T00:37:43Z | www.wusa9.com | DC Mayoral candidate promises boarding and vocational schools | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc-primary-election-robert-white-plan-for-safer-streets-less-crime/65-0f834372-96e1-490d-bde9-ab8410b109f4 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc-primary-election-robert-white-plan-for-safer-streets-less-crime/65-0f834372-96e1-490d-bde9-ab8410b109f4 |
First Tee alumni and HBCU golfers play 9-holes with World's former Number One, Rory McIlroy
POTOMAC, Md. — The Wells Fargo Championship Pro-Am was a day that four golfers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities won't soon forget. The HBCU students were paired with Rory McIlroy.
McIlroy is a former number one in the Official World Golf Ranking, spending more than 100 weeks at the top spot. He's won four Major Championships and has 20 wins on the PGA Tour.
“It was a wonderful Pro-Am. It’s great, there are a lot of Wednesdays in Pro-Am’s that aren’t as fun as something like today. To be able to spend time with these guys and see what great golfers they are but also the great people that they are as well," said Mcllroy.
"I was sent all their CVs and bios last night and just the list of things they’ve done and accomplished at a young age – it was really, really impressive. It was really nice to spend some time with them this morning," he added when talking about the four HBCU students.
Today happens to be McIlroy's 33rd birthday and at the first tee, the HBCU golfers made sure he felt special too, singing him "Happy Birthday."
"I really appreciate them singing 'Happy Birthday' to me," said McIlroy.
McIlroy also offered advice as they played 9 holes of golf at TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm. “It was amazing – super friendly, super just helpful. Asked him some tips for chipping and he was willing to give them to me so I can take them back and give them to our kids when I coach them, so they’re really appreciative of it," said Lennard Long.
Long is from Washington D.C. and helps out with the First Tee chapter of Greater Washington. First Tee is a youth development organization introducing the game of golf and its inherent values to young people. All of the HBCU golfers in the Pro-Am were alumni of the First Tee, including Hampton University senior, Jakari Harris.
"It was unreal. You know you see these pro’s on TV and then you get a chance to see them in-person, let alone play with them. It was an amazing experience for sure," said Harris.
“Through our long-standing relationship with First Tee, we are proud to create new opportunities for young, diverse golfers throughout The Wells Fargo Championship," said Pam Batalis, Wells Fargo SVP of Sponsorships and Brand Engagement.
From the youth golf clinic at the historic Langston Golf Course to the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for four HBCU students and alumni to play in the Pro-Am with Rory McIlroy, Wells Fargo is creating access to unique experiences in golf as part of its history of support of HBCUs," Batalis continued.
RELATED: 'Good vibes' for McIlroy as he defends at soggy Wells Fargo Championship | 2022-05-05T02:08:14Z | www.wusa9.com | HBCU student golfers play 9-holes alongside Roy Mcllroy | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/wells-fargo-championship-pro-am-pairs-rory-mcilroy-with-hbcu-student-golfers/65-5d5e4c4c-5809-4948-b106-ef0d6215ebfe | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/wells-fargo-championship-pro-am-pairs-rory-mcilroy-with-hbcu-student-golfers/65-5d5e4c4c-5809-4948-b106-ef0d6215ebfe |
The fences were being erected Wednesday evening.
WASHINGTON — Fences were seen going up outside the U.S. Supreme Court building Wednesday night, where large crowds have been gathering for the last two days after Politico leaked a draft opinion indicating Roe v. Wade could be overturned.
The fences erected are similar to the "non-scalable" fencing that was set up outside the U.S. Capitol after a mob of Trump supporters rioted in an attempt to overturn the 2020 presidential election results on Jan. 6, 2021.
U.S. Capitol Police and U.S. Supreme Court Police did not respond to requests for comment on the fencing Wednesday evening.
Right now: fences going up around #scotus@wusa9 pic.twitter.com/lM68M005aB
Chief Justice John Roberts confirmed that the 98-page draft was authentic and released the following statement:
"To the extent this betrayal of the confidences of the Court was intended to undermine the integrity of our operations, it will not succeed. The work of the Court will not be affected in any way.
I have directed the Marshal of the Court to launch an investigation into the source of the leak." | 2022-05-05T03:40:36Z | www.wusa9.com | Fences go up outside SCOTUS 2 days after draft opinion leaks | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/fences-up-outside-scotus-2-days-after-draft-opinion-indicates-roe-v-wade-may-be-overturned/65-bac86dbb-d4a3-4cd6-943a-4eac238dfbab | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/fences-up-outside-scotus-2-days-after-draft-opinion-indicates-roe-v-wade-may-be-overturned/65-bac86dbb-d4a3-4cd6-943a-4eac238dfbab |
The drugs are believed to be counterfeit Percocet pills laced with fentanyl.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The City of Alexandria Police Department is warning the community about a recent spike in suspected fentanyl-related overdoses in school-aged kids.
The warning comes after reports from minors using a "little blue pill" they believed to be Percocet pills that were actually laced with fentanyl.
In a release issued by the City of Alexandria, officials said between April 1 and May 1, 12 opioid overdoses were reported to the city, six of those incidents involved people under the age of 17. No fatalities were reported and many of the victims were revived by first responders equipped with Narcan, according to the release.
"Any time we see that amount in such a short time and then you throw in juveniles being involved it makes us very very concerned," Captain Monica Lisle with the Alexandria Police Department said.
“It’s very serious," Lisle said. "You see it in neighboring jurisdictions, where they’ve had two fatalities that we know of, centering on the usage of this pill. But right now the message should be there’s no safe drug. There’s no safe pill unless it’s prescribed by a doctor and issued by a pharmacy. Fentanyl is everywhere right now. It’s in our communities, it’s in our schools and we have to be aware of that."
The counterfeit pills are blue and have an M inside a square to mimic an M30 tablet. Lisle said most juvenile cases reported either smoking or ingesting the blue bill purchased as a Percocet pill.
“It’s life or death right now. If they ingest the fentanyl there’s a good likelihood they’re going to overdose and without anything nearby as far as Narcan that can counteract the effects of the fentanyl there’s a high likelihood kids or even adults could die," Lisle said.
Lisle said the drugs are also inside schools and is something students and parents need to be aware of.
"We have to be aware of that, students, parents, everyone needs to be aware of that. But there is no safe pill, there is no safe drug, it can be laced with fentanyl and it can be absolutely deadly," Lisle said.
The warning from Alexandria came hours after the Prince William County Police Department announced the seizure of several guns and more than 5,000 suspected counterfeit fentanyl-laced Percocet pills.
The Prince William County Police Department also announced the arrest of four men between the ages of 19 and 23, charged with crimes ranging from giving a firearm to a minor to possession with intent to distribute.
The arrests and seizures come one week after two teens are suspected to have died from an overdose as a result of taking fake Percocet pills that were laced with fentanyl.
On April 27, Prince William County Police said a 15-year-old had died in Woodbridge and a 14-year-old died in Dale City. They shared that both deaths appeared to have been connected to the counterfeit pills, known as "Perc30," that was actually laced with fentanyl. | 2022-05-05T03:40:48Z | www.wusa9.com | Alexandria police issue warning after juvenile opioid overdoses | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/alexandria-police-issue-warning-after-opioid-overdoses-in-minors/65-d643481e-333b-4261-9f07-9881de02928f | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/alexandria-police-issue-warning-after-opioid-overdoses-in-minors/65-d643481e-333b-4261-9f07-9881de02928f |
Bryant Strong was found guilty of second degree assault, reckless endangerment and misconduct in office, the state's attorney's office says.
WASHINGTON — Editor's Note: The video above originally aired in February 2022.
A Prince George's County police officer was found guilty by a judge on several counts of assaulting a man who was handcuffed during a traffic stop in October 2019.
Demonte Ward-Blake, the man who was assaulted, was left paralyzed in a wheelchair for the remainder of his life.
Prince George's County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy announced the verdict by Judge DaNeeka Varner at a news conference Wednesday.
Varner, who serves as a judge for the Prince George's County Circuit Court, found Sgt. Bryant Strong "guilty of second-degree assault, reckless endangerment and misconduct in office for assaulting a citizen while handcuffed behind his back."
Strong was indicted in September 2020 in connection with the assault of Ward-Blake of District Heights. Ward-Blake was driving along the 4700 block of Wheeler Road on Oct. 17, 2019, when he was stopped by an officer for having expired vehicle tags.
State’s Attorney Braveboy Announces Guilty Verdict Against PGPD Officer Bryant Strong
Posted by Prince Georges County State's Attorney's Office on Wednesday, May 4, 2022
According to a statement from the state's attorney's office, during the interaction between the officer and Ward-Blake, the officer "unholstered his weapon." Ward-Blake "became verbally agitated at that time but continued to cooperate and comply with the officer’s orders," the statement says.
According to the Washington Post, the daughter of Ward-Blake's girlfriend was in the backseat of the vehicle when the officer pulled his weapon.
Additional officers, including Strong, were called to the scene and Ward-Blake was arrested.
The state's attorney's office says "Strong stood Ward-Blake up near the passenger side of the police cruiser" for a search. Ward-Blake then turned around to face the officer, and "Strong pushed Ward-Blake against the cruiser to continue the search and then took Ward-Blake to the ground."
When Ward-Blake was taken to the ground, he was seriously injured and was paralyzed below his chest.
Braveboy told reporters Thursday that Strong's actions led Ward-Blake to suffer from paralysis and live the rest of his life in a wheelchair. He was 24-years-old at the time of the assault.
Police say Ward-Blake died on Aug. 1, 2021 months after he sustained injuries from a shooting on Nov. 21, 2020.
Credit: Chinaye Pollard
24-year-old Demonte Ward-Blake suffered a neck injury during an arrest Friday, according to police.
Ward-Blake's mother, Rena Ward, called Strong's guilty verdict "a first step" for the family, noting "it's a long road ahead."
“I just want my son back," she said. "It’s tough at the end of the day, it hurts so bad.”
Braveboy praised investigators and an officer who testified against Strong.
“These cases are not simple, they’re not easy," she said.
The state's attorney said that while using force is allowed in policing in some circumstances, Strong's actions in this incident were "just outrageous."
Braveboy said Strong was found guilty on "serious charges" and her office would fight for appropriate sentencing.
Strong will be sentenced on July 21 and could face up to 10 years in prison.
WUSA9 reached out to Strong's attorney for comment but did not receive a response by the time this story was published.
Family of Prince George's County man allegedly beaten, paralyzed by police files civil rights lawsuit
Maryland family fighting for justice amid Derek Chauvin trial verdict
Two Prince George's County police officers indicted – one for arrest that left man paralyzed | 2022-05-05T05:13:52Z | www.wusa9.com | Prince George's County cop guilty for assault that paralyzed man | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/judge-finds-prince-georges-county-cop-guilty-assault-that-left-man-paralyzed/65-1062bc46-7a0d-4cc3-9d0d-d62d17b9e2e7 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/judge-finds-prince-georges-county-cop-guilty-assault-that-left-man-paralyzed/65-1062bc46-7a0d-4cc3-9d0d-d62d17b9e2e7 |
Police are still working to determine what led up to the shooting.
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. — A man is dead after he was shot multiple times in Prince George's County Wednesday afternoon. Police are asking for the public's help to find who is responsible.
Officers were called to the Glen Rock Landing apartment complex in the 2400 block of Corning Avenue in Temple Hills around 1 p.m. Wednesday for a report of a shooting. Once on scene, they found a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead on scene.
Prince George's County Police Department Corporal Erik Marsh said investigators were still working to determine what led to the shooting. No arrests have been made and there are no suspects in this case, according to Marsh.
"Our officers are piecing together and collecting evidence to determine what led up to this event. As of now, we don't have any suspect information," Marsh said.
Marsh did say that before the shooting took place, there was a brief pursuit in the area, but he said it was unclear whether that pursuit was related to the shooting.
Marsh is asking anyone who could help in this shooting investigation to reach out to the police department.
"We understand that we can't police without the assistance of our community," Marsh said.
The police department asks anyone who may have information to contact Prince George's County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.
RELATED: 2 juveniles injured, dog dead from shooting in District Heights, police say | 2022-05-05T09:46:12Z | www.wusa9.com | Man shot, killed in Prince George's Co., police say | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/corning-avenue-homicide-investigation-prince-georges-county-shooting/65-02b3dd4c-ccd3-47ee-a266-afbe1e542b18 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/corning-avenue-homicide-investigation-prince-georges-county-shooting/65-02b3dd4c-ccd3-47ee-a266-afbe1e542b18 |
Mayor Michael O'Conner tested positive Wednesday morning and is reportedly self-isolating at home.
FREDERICK, Md. — Frederick Mayor Michael O'Connor has tested positive for COVID-19 Wednesday morning, according to a spokesperson with the county.
He is reportedly experiencing mild symptoms but is in "good spirits" while he is quarantining.
“This serves as another reminder of the seriousness of this global pandemic and the ongoing challenges that remain,” Mayor O’Connor said in a Facebook post.
Mayor O'Connor will work remotely until he is cleared to return to work at City Hall.
“Despite being vaccinated and boosted and our community being in a state of low transmission, breakthrough infections remain a real concern,” O'Connor wrote on Facebook.
Mayor O’Connor said he continues to follow the CDC guidance regarding testing in an effort to safeguard the health and well-being of his colleagues and all residents he encounters.
Contact tracing is being conducted to notify colleagues and community members he came in contact with earlier this week.
"The Mayor continues to support vaccination efforts throughout the City and urges everyone to take necessary steps to protect your health and wellbeing," a spokesperson said in a statement.
RELATED: CDC: COVID was 3rd leading cause of death in US again for 2021 | 2022-05-05T09:46:19Z | www.wusa9.com | Mayor O'Connor tests positive for COVID-19 Wednesday | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/frederick-md-mayor-oconnor-tests-positive-for-covid-19/65-db2ce816-585e-4fae-8309-6d3996d231e1 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/frederick-md-mayor-oconnor-tests-positive-for-covid-19/65-db2ce816-585e-4fae-8309-6d3996d231e1 |
On the upswing: Pandemic shutdowns caused many to discover golf for the first time
Pandemic restrictions caused a big boom in the golf industry.
Author: Annie Yu
LORTON, Va. — So many activities became virtually off-limits when the pandemic started. Safety measures meant cutting out the gym and other indoor group exercise programs, as well as outdoor team sports. One sport that's still standing is golf.
Jon Eisman, named one of Virginia's best golf teachers by Golf Digest, has been focused on instruction for more than 20 years, after working his way up to being a local PGA professional.
"This is almost the biggest boom we've seen," Eisman said.
Eisman owns Eisman Golf Academy, which operates two courses in Northern Virginia -- Laurel Hill and Twin Lakes. The first big boom he saw came in the '90s with the emergence of Tiger Woods.
"It was cool. He made it a different sport. It wasn't the privileged type of sport," Eisman said.
But a quarter of a century later, the pandemic shutdown caused a different kind of spike. According to the National Golf Foundation, more than 3 million new golfers nationwide hit the course for the very first time.
"Our business was up almost 300% in that time period. A huge growth in junior golfers, women getting out to play and getting into the game, and more families," Eisman said. "We don't think it's going to go anywhere."
Each golfer has a story.
Anthony Bradsure first picked up clubs as a teen and got back on the course in his mid-20s.
"I found the sport, didn't love it as much, found it again and now I can't stop playing," Bradsure said. "I play pretty much every day."
Owen Taylor, 18, dropped baseball and found another sport to love. Now he hopes to play on a college golf team.
One of Eisman's longtime students, Rylan Shim, calls golf his sanctuary in the pandemic.
"When everything else was closed down, I knew I had a spot here at Laurel that I could come and practice and hang out with people," Shim said.
Now Shim has a bright future ahead of him as he heads for the University of Florida on a golf scholarship. He's thrilled about the growth in his sport.
"I've made so many great relationships with people I probably would never have made except through golf. I think it's awesome and everybody should be able to have that opportunity," Shim said.
So many people who discovered golf during the pandemic have stuck with it. That has Eisman hiring more help and expanding his instruction studios.
"We are expanding to a studio right next door. So it’s going to be 2,600 square feet, we’ll have two indoor bays, nice big players’ lounge area with video conferencing in there, all the tech we’re going to put in there, so I think really people are getting even deeper into lessons," Eisman explained.
Eisman says the philosophy of golf instruction has done a 180, from learning to do things a certain way, to learning which movements work best for your body.
If you haven't taken a swing at golf yet, Eisman makes one key point:
"No one is a terrible golfer. I think it's a matter of your learning curve and your learning process and having the time to really get out there and do it."
Many are getting out there and doing it. In fact, not only are courses booked solid for weeks out, equipment sales are surging. Eisman says people are waiting at least six months for golf clubs. Manufacturers have told him it's been the craziest time trying to meet demand with their supply challenges.
Eisman plans for the new boom in business to be his new norm, and the golf industry appears to feel the same way.
RELATED: Wells Fargo Championship Pro-Am pairs Rory McIlroy with HBCU golfers | 2022-05-05T14:24:17Z | www.wusa9.com | Pandemic shutdowns tee up golf for booming business | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/pandemic-shut-downs-tee-up-golf-for-booming-business/65-0fcbde3e-208b-4a64-9245-5f0b01c1ead9 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/pandemic-shut-downs-tee-up-golf-for-booming-business/65-0fcbde3e-208b-4a64-9245-5f0b01c1ead9 |
Deputies say the altercation began inside a classroom before it spilled into the administrator's office where an admin was assaulted while restraining a student.
CHARLES COUNTY, Md. — Two North Point High School students are facing assault and disruption charges following a fight at school Wednesday afternoon.
Deputies with the Charles County Sheriff's Office responded to the school located in the 2500 block of Davis Road around 1:37 p.m. for the disturbance. Officials said an administrator was notified by a teacher that two students in their class were engaged in a verbal disagreement with another student.
The two students were separated and one was taken to an administrator's office to diffuse the situation. One of the students then tried forcing their way into that administrator's office in an attempt to reach the other student. In the process, an administrator was assaulted, deputies say.
The two students were charged as juveniles with assault and disruption of school activities. They were released to their parents who picked them up from school.
The incident is still under investigation by the Charles County Sheriff's Office.
RELATED: Howard County student stabs classmate in parking lot, police say
RELATED: 17 year old attacked student with knife, threatened parent outside Montgomery County high school
RELATED: Student cut at Bladensburg High School in Prince George's County | 2022-05-05T17:26:40Z | www.wusa9.com | Two students charges after classroom dispute ends in assault | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/two-students-charged-with-assault-at-north-point-high-school/65-0c7ec9b4-3b55-44df-bd3e-96678c633ee5 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/two-students-charged-with-assault-at-north-point-high-school/65-0c7ec9b4-3b55-44df-bd3e-96678c633ee5 |
A historic golf course that was part of the civil rights movement is among those in need of repairs.
POTOMAC, Md. — A long-awaited renovation of some of the most vital public golf courses in our region could transform municipal golf in the Washington, D.C. area. But the plans are currently in a holding pattern, frustrating some area golfers.
Will Smith grew up playing at the East Potomac Golf Links. Now, it's one of the three courses he's working to renovate as co-founder of National Links Trust, a nonprofit created to protect and promote accessible, affordable municipal, or public, golf courses.
“These are really important assets to D.C," the St. Albans School graduate said. “But more importantly, they're like a personal connection."
Smith, along with NLT's CEO, Sinclair Eaddy Jr., believes the renovations are crucial to the future health of the sport.
"We're trying to keep these facilities viable for new golfers to learn, and to get into the game of golf,” Eaddy said. “But we’re really doing a lot more than rehabilitating golf courses. What I like to think is that we are rehabilitating golf in the District of Columbia.”
In September 2020, National Links Trust signed a 50-year lease with the National Park Service to renovate and operate all three of Washington D.C.’s municipal courses: East Potomac in Southwest, Rock Creek Park Golf Course in Northwest and Langston Golf Course in Northeast. NLT partnered with three world-renowned golf course architects on the redesign -- Tom Doak, Gil Hanse and Beau Welling -- and plans to pay for the entire estimated $65 million overhaul out of private donations and revenue from managing the redesigned courses. Not one tax dollar will go to the project.
But almost two years after signing the contract, none of the major work has even begun, other than some minor cosmetic changes. National Links Trust is still awaiting permitting approval from the same government agency that hired it in the first place, NPS.
“It'd be great to move it through that process faster,” said National Links Trust co-founder Mike McCartin. “But I do think it's all done with the right intentions and a lot of positivity.”
In a statement the National Parks Service told WUSA9 the permits are going through a “standard review process - there have been no unexpected delays in approval.”
“A scope of work is still being developed for the Rock Creek Golf Course and we expect the Environmental Assessment (EA) process to begin soon," wrote National Parks Service spokesperson Chelsea Sullivan. “National Links Trust will be able to begin construction after the EA is complete and final plans have been approved.”
Work at Rock Creek is expected to begin in the next one to two years. National Links Trust said the decision to renovate Rock Creek Golf Course first was made because it is in the worst shape, with four of 18 holes so overgrown and dilapidated they are no longer playable. National Links Trust said it needs Rock Creek to be made viable again as soon as possible to ensure there are as many public golf options as possible in the District while work on the other two courses moves forward.
But after decades of demanding equality on the golf course, golfers of color in Northeast D.C. are demanding equality with this planned restoration project as well.
Kimberly Robinson, Clarissa Dudley and Phyllis Jenkins are all members of the Wake-Robin Golf Club at Langston Golf Course, the oldest black women’s golf club in the United States. The women say civil rights history is clouded with dusty dirt cart paths, disrepair and disappointment.
“I don't want the perception to be that because the demographics in the area are changing that now Langston is getting the attention that Langston should have been getting all along,” said Robinson, president of Wake-Robin.
Langston was built on federal land in 1939 to give people of color a place to play golf in response to the “Caucasian clause” in PGA by-laws preventing non-white people from membership on tour -- racism that spilled over onto existing public courses.
“They were literally having cans thrown at them, bottles thrown at them,” said Jenkins.
And so, the integration of municipal golf courses started.
“Let them play became the cry for us all across the country for us to be able to play in public spaces that we're paying for through taxes," Dudley said. “So, it's an important civil rights story.”
Now, public or “municipal” courses have become the gateway, not just for Black people, but all people who want access to golf but can’t pay for a country club membership.
But with the National Links Trust permitting process still ongoing, and no public date for widespread improvements at Langston even on the calendar, some are losing patience, once again, waiting for their turn.
“We are 100% behind everyone who has the best intentions,” Dudley said. “Everybody has their own timeline and we understand that everybody works within their own framework. But you know, for African Americans we've heard about justice and delay for a long time, and there's another famous quote that says justice delayed is justice denied. We’re just excited for the time when we can have this course looking like its old self again.”
National Links Trust said it recognizes the historical significance of Langston, which is why it selected that course over East Potomac to add “Toptracer” technology at the driving range first.
The National Parks Service also said it is essential that each course maintain its historically and architecturally significant elements as well as not negatively impacting any wildlife or species already a part of those courses.
RELATED: On the upswing: Pandemic shutdowns caused many to discover golf for the first time | 2022-05-05T22:06:26Z | www.wusa9.com | Renovations needed for DC's public golf courses on hold | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/wells-fargo-championship-municipal-public-golf-course-east-potomac-rock-creek-langston-wake-robin-national-links-trust/65-e183ccad-5989-40e8-ba89-0c942f889713 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/wells-fargo-championship-municipal-public-golf-course-east-potomac-rock-creek-langston-wake-robin-national-links-trust/65-e183ccad-5989-40e8-ba89-0c942f889713 |
Ralph Ennis was the subject of a 'Silver Alert' out of Pennsylvania in early March.
FRONT ROYAL, Va. — Virginia State Police are investigating the death of a 77-year-old man following a traffic stop in Front Royal where the man who was pulled over wound up with a deep cut to his head and died 13 days later.
Footage from police body cameras and dashboard cameras, obtained by WUSA9 through a Virginia Freedom of Information Act request, shows Warren County Sheriff Deputies slamming Ralph Ennis’ face into the rear of his vehicle before tackling him to the ground. According to the sheriff's office, Ennis died in hospice care on April 15.
The stop occurred in the early morning hours of April 2 at a 7-Eleven parking lot in the area of Riverton Commons and Route 522. Police said they observed Ennis "driving erratically," weaving between two lanes and eventually crossing into the shoulder. An officer following Ennis turned on his lights, and a brief low-speed pursuit ensued.
The footage, released by Front Royal police, shows the perspective of the responding officer. The officer pulls up to the scene to find a deputy outside of his cruiser in what appears to be a stand-off with the driver who is standing outside the car with his hands to his side. A second deputy can be seen holding back a barking K-9 and a third deputy approaches with his gun drawn, yelling at the driver, “drop your keys, drop your keys!” A Front Royal police officer is heard on camera saying, “Jesus Christ, just grab ahold of him!”
In a subsequent police report, obtained via FOIA request, the Front Royal officer listed as Cpl. R.D. Lowery wrote, “the male appeared elderly and confused.”
The video then shows the deputies grabbing hold of Ennis, swinging him toward the car forcing his face into the vehicle. They all then fall to the ground.
In Lowery's account of the incident, it's described as follows:
"Another deputy ran behind the male and placed his arms behind his back and jerked the male around towards the Ford f150. The deputy slammed the male into the camper top face first. I observed the male spit something out on the pavement below his body. Another deputy came from the side of the male and grabbed the male while the other deputy had his hands behind his back. The male was pushed over but his legs had caught the hitch on the back of the truck. Two deputies and the male were on the ground at this point."
Lowery says Ennis appeared to be "in custody" at that point so he left the scene. He says he only later learned, via radio traffic, that Ennis suffered "a laceration to his head" and was taken to the hospital.
According to a news release from the sheriff's department posted on April 25, this was the second time they encountered Ennis. Deputies located Ennis on March 11 after Pennsylvania State Police issued a Silver Alert for him. The release congratulates the deputies for locating Ennis.
“This office has a proud and proven track record of responding to the urgent need to locate missing and endangered persons, particularly our seniors,” state Major Jeffrey Driskill wrote.
"It's not very often that we see things escalate to this point of violence," said Katie McDonough the Director of Programs and Services with the Alzheimer's Association.
McDonough said they help first responders recognize the signs of cognitive impairment, for instance, if folks appear confused, freeze or do not follow instructions. Her advice? Take it slow.
"Asking simple questions like, 'What is your name? Where are you? Where do you live,' explained McDonough, "if you're getting responses that don't seem normal, those are some clues and you cannot interact with that person like you would with someone without a cognitive impairment. We want to make sure that first responders understand that very often those living with a cognitive impairment are going to become further agitated."
If you would like to learn more about the signs of cognitive impairment or training for first responders go to the association's website or call the 24/7 helpline: 1-800-272-3900
WUSA9 is still waiting for comment from the department about the video, but according to the release the deputies are on administrative leave and the office is cooperating with the investigation and has launched an internal review into the use of force in this case.
Montgomery Co. officers who shot, killed a 21-year-old in a McDonald's parking lot won't be charged
Anne Arundel Co. officers rescue 4 people, including 9-month-old and 3-year-old from a vehicle in pond
Charges will not be filed against officer who shot armed man in Lorton, after review of bodycam footage
Police video: Virginia State Police investigate death of 77-year-old after traffic stop | 2022-05-05T23:37:15Z | www.wusa9.com | Police investigate use of force in death of 77-year-old man | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/police/bodycamera-footage-police-review-77-year-old-man-dead-after-traffic-stop-head-injury/65-a1aaf4e8-6d69-40db-b36a-5d182e557220 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/police/bodycamera-footage-police-review-77-year-old-man-dead-after-traffic-stop-head-injury/65-a1aaf4e8-6d69-40db-b36a-5d182e557220 |
PGA Tour's Denny McCarthy is staying at his mom's house in Rockville while he golfs at the Wells Fargo Championship at TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm.
POTOMAC, Md. — Born in Takoma Park, and raised in Burtonsville and Rockville, pro golfer Denny McCarthy topped the leaderboard for most of the day at the first round of the Wells Fargo Championship at TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm.
The hometown hero loves playing the course less than nine miles from Georgetown Prep, where he played in high school.
And local fans are loving the chance two watch him.
"Woohoo. Pulling for him," said retiree Don Crichton of Kensington, who was watching his first pro tournament with his buddy, Jerry Bush of Damascus.
"We came out to watch Rory McIlroy. But the local boy, McCarthy, we're hanging with him," said Crichton. "I hope he can hang on, and we'll be rooting for him," said Bush, whooping with joy.
McCarthy finished five-under-par. But it's a long game and a long tournament, and by the end of the day, Jason Day had pulled ahead with a seven-under.
Arguably the tour's best putter, McCarthy lives in Florida now. He played TPC Potomac growing up.
Would he like to make his hometown a regular stop on the tour? "Yeah, I wouldn't be opposed to that. I would love to come here every year," McCarthy told WUSA9.
That idea is getting a qualified endorsement from Rory McIlroy, Wells Fargo's defending champion. "I think it's a very good course," McIlroy said.
McCarthy, 29, has been staying at his parent's house in Rockville. Maybe it's the home cooking that has him in a great position for the second round on Friday.
"Last night we had crab cakes. Because when he's in Maryland. That's what he wants," said his mom, Elena McCarthy.
"Definitely feel right at home... It's an exciting week," Denny McCarthy said.
The pros last played in the area in 2018. And they're not due back until 2031.
McIlroy said he'd like to make this area a regular stop too. But he says it's really up to the sponsors. He also says they're still looking for one to sponsor a tournament around here. | 2022-05-05T23:37:28Z | www.wusa9.com | PGA Tour's Denny McCarthy in third place at golf's Wells Fargo | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/mom-cooked-crab-cakes-have-denny-mccarthy-near-top-of-leaderboard-at-wells-fargo-championship/65-771f4f34-6b89-4071-a8ac-5623f4818a16 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/sports/mom-cooked-crab-cakes-have-denny-mccarthy-near-top-of-leaderboard-at-wells-fargo-championship/65-771f4f34-6b89-4071-a8ac-5623f4818a16 |
How ratifying the Equal Rights Amendment could help protect abortion rights
Roe v. Wade sparks conversations on the Equal Rights Amendment
Some of the amendment's supporters believe it would help protect abortion rights if added to the U.S. Constitution.
WASHINGTON — The Roe v. Wade debate over abortion has renewed some locals' interest in adding the Equal Rights Amendment to the constitution.
Supporters believe the amendment could help protect abortion rights in America and, until recently, Virginia was right in the middle of that fight.
Since Politico's Roe v. Wade story broke, the phrase "Equal Rights Amendment" has been searched for a lot on the web in the D.C. area, according to Google Trends.
The Equal Rights Amendment seeks to declare equality for all Americans, regardless of their sex.
On Thursday, at the Supreme Court, an advocacy group called, Generation Ratify, argued the amendment would grant women freedom when it comes to their reproductive health.
"We have attacks like overturning Roe v. Wade because the Constitution does not prohibit sex-based discrimination," said Generation Ratify Member Rosie Couture.
In 2020, Virginia became the 38th state to ratify the amendment. That was significant because 38 states must individually ratify amendments for them to be added to the US Constitution.
But, then, something happened.
The Archivist of the United States, who certifies the validity of amendments, agreed with a Department of Justice opinion during the Trump administration. It said the deadline to pass the Equal Rights Amendment was in 1982, making Virginia's ratification almost 40 years too late.
Nevertheless, Virginia persisted.
The Commonwealth, Illinois, and Nevada decided to sue the Archivist in an attempt to force the federal government to recognize Virginia's ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment.
Virginia stayed active in that legal battle until February when the new Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares decided to withdraw his state from the suit.
Still, Virginia's withdrawal didn't kill the push to ratify the amendment. Two weeks ago, Illinois and Nevada filed another brief asking a federal appeals court to let the amendment go forward. So far, oral arguments for that case have yet to be scheduled. | 2022-05-06T04:08:02Z | www.wusa9.com | Roe v. Wade debate renews effort to ratify Equal Rights Amendment | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/roe-vs-wade-debate-renews-push-to-ratify-equal-rights-amendment/65-caa54f63-3b6a-4ba2-aca4-712e06cc9261 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/roe-vs-wade-debate-renews-push-to-ratify-equal-rights-amendment/65-caa54f63-3b6a-4ba2-aca4-712e06cc9261 |
Boeing plans to land headquarters in Arlington - can the city handle it?
WUSA 9's Jess Arnold sat down with five activists helping DC kids heal from trauma and giving them opportunities.
WASHINGTON — To round out this week of stories on kids in crisis, WUSA 9's Jess Arnold sat down with five activists working to end the cycle of violence in D.C.
Ryane Nickens: Founder of the TraRon Center, which provides art therapy and a haven for kids exposed to gun violence to help them healthfully endure the complexities of loss- while promoting community health and solidarity.
Pastor Delonte Gholston: Founder of Peace Walks DC, which is a coalition of gun violence survivors, churches, nonprofits and activists working towards ending gun violence in the DMV.
Jawanna Hardy: Founder of Guns Down Friday, which offers support to kids exposed to gun violence, through community events and mentorship.
Gail Avent: Founder of Total Family Care Coalition, which she formed to support families’ journeys while they overcome personal struggles, often associated with gun violence. They connect families with community resources and partner them with a family advocate.
Leshonia Thompson-El: Executive Director of Peace for DC, a group working to fund established community organizations and invest in evidence-based methods in an effort to dramatically reduce gun violence in the city.
All of them have been touched by violence and have been working to end it for years.
Here is part of the hour-long conversation Jess Arnold had with them:
WUSA9's Jess Arnold: “We've seen an increase in violence over the past few years; we've seen an increase in kids getting involved in it. What are your thoughts on what the trends are telling us right now?”
Ryane Nickens: "The trends are telling us we're in trouble…Having to hold kids, because they're scared to go out the door. And they're telling you, they're in your arms crying out, I don't want to die, I don't want to die… It is providing that safe and sacred space that that child can say that, but they also have the services to help them go through it."
Gail Avent: “They haven't been taught to grieve properly… and to say, 'Okay, I lost my parents, my grandparents, but I have a life, I have a life to live.' So you have to re instill some hope… because the worst thing I see in kids is losing a future.”
Leshonia Thompson-El: “What we need is a strategy that involves and includes the community. Because if the government thinks that they can solve this problem without community, I think we’ll continue to see the same cycle of violence."
Jess: "Pastor Delonte, what do we do differently?"
Pastor Delonte Gholston: “What I see is violence is the language of the unheard. You asked me what needs to change. We need to listen better... And what I have not seen, and what I would like to see more of is our city…actively and regularly holding community deep listening sessions in our communities so that our young people can drive the solutions."
Ryane Nickens: “And it's not going to happen overnight, and it's not going to happen with more police officers. It's not going to happen with government throwing this and that. We need a real plan that is rooted in public health.”
Jawanna Hardy: “If you go in any hood in DC, you will find a lady or a man fighting to save that community. But I promise you, they don't get funded. I feel like I'm that person."
Leshonia Thompson-El: “DC like brands itself as being so progressive. But in reality, like we are really lost, and we are like behind the curveball, like we are not getting it, we are missing the mark... And let's be real. This is about racial justice. It's about social justice. It's about economic justice.”
Ryane Nickens: "And, when gun violence isn’t that titillating to politicians and to folks, we will still be here doing this work on a wing and a prayer and try to help our community."
Watch the full roundtable discussion here:
Note: Jess Arnold volunteers on the board of the TraRon Center. | 2022-05-06T10:20:51Z | www.wusa9.com | 5 DC activists talk violence trends among kids in the city | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/kids-crisis-five-dc-activists-talk-violence-trends-kids-resources-needed/65-736f0556-25ba-40e8-b599-9270ebaa1b36 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/kids-crisis-five-dc-activists-talk-violence-trends-kids-resources-needed/65-736f0556-25ba-40e8-b599-9270ebaa1b36 |
Secret Service investigators say it appears the crash happened because a suspect was fleeing law enforcement.
WASHINGTON — An early morning crash in Northwest D.C. led to a suspect being arrested by the United States Secret Service.
Secret Service officers were called to the scene of a two-car crash at 12th Street and Massachusetts Avenue NW just before 2 a.m., a spokesperson said. Once there, officers discovered a major accident scene.
The spokesperson said people were hurt in the crash, but did not say how many people were hurt, and did not provide information about the severity of those injuries.
Secret Service officers took one person into custody. Information about the suspect has not been released.
Officers believe the person they arrested was fleeing law enforcement at the time of the crash, but the circumstances surrounding the crash are not known at this time.
The spokesperson said more information is expected to be released later Friday in a statement.
RELATED: Man charged with impersonating an officer after flashing gun and badge at crewman
RELATED: Secret Service officers shoot, kill man smashing windows at Peruvian ambassador's residence | 2022-05-06T10:20:57Z | www.wusa9.com | One arrested by Secret Service after crash in Northwest DC | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/secret-service-arrest-man-after-nw-dc-crash/65-e507976b-16e5-474a-9835-dab6ac1ff667 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/secret-service-arrest-man-after-nw-dc-crash/65-e507976b-16e5-474a-9835-dab6ac1ff667 |
Two men have been killed this week in the 2300 block of Green Street in Anacostia. Police say 33-year-old Treyvon Green was found dead Thursday.
WASHINGTON — DC Police are investigating a second homicide within 24 hours in a Southeast D.C. neighborhood.
Officers arrived on the scene around 9:30 a.m. in the 2300 block of Green Street in Anacostia Thursday to find 33-year-old Treyvon Green with gunshot wounds. DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and noted that he had no signs of life.
Just a day before, 24-year-old Davon Sullivan, of Southeast, D.C. was found in the same condition.
Police have not indicated that there is any connection between the two shootings.
Between the two cases, DC Police are offering a total of up to $50,000 for information. The department is currently offering a reward of up to $25,000 per case to anyone who provides details that lead to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for each homicide committed in the District. | 2022-05-06T14:57:51Z | www.wusa9.com | 2nd man shot dead in 24 hours in Southeast DC neighborhood | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/man-shot-dead-in-24-hours-in-southeast-dc-neighborhood/65-063b952d-2422-4b43-a373-0416135285d3 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/man-shot-dead-in-24-hours-in-southeast-dc-neighborhood/65-063b952d-2422-4b43-a373-0416135285d3 |
Germantown man arrested after woman dies from fentanyl overdose
The man admitted that he was a user and distributor of opioid drugs, met with the victim and even watched her use drugs while he was present.
GERMANTOWN, Md. — A Germantown man has pleaded guilty to the distribution of fentanyl that ultimately led to a woman’s overdose, a release from the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office said.
Enitan Mouroukeji Agbi, 38, also known as Anton Agbi and “Tone,” according to police, admitted that he was a user and distributor of opioid drugs. He admitted to meeting with the victim and even watching her use his drugs while he was present, according to the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office.
According to the Agbi’s guilty plea, on August 10, 2020, the victim called him to get heroin and fentanyl. She agreed to meet him at a hotel in Gaithersburg where he was staying at the time.
Police said hotel surveillance footage and cell site location records helped them determine the two individuals’ meeting location in the parking lot of the hotel.
After the two allegedly met, the woman drove back home and was later found dead in her room at 10 p.m. next to a plastic bag with .42 grams of fentanyl mixed with heroin and a straw, police said.
Officials determined that her cause of death was determined to be “acute intoxication by the combined effects of fentanyl, despropionyl fentanyl, and morphine.” Police added that the woman was, otherwise, a healthy individual.
After August 25, 2020, Agbi relocated to a different hotel in Germantown, according to police, and on Aug. 28, 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant in Agbi’s room.
Officers ultimately recovered approximately 10 clear plastic capsules containing a total of approximately 2.76 grams of fentanyl mixed with heroin, knotted bags containing a total of approximately 2.6 grams of heroin mixed with fentanyl, and drug distribution paraphernalia. The paraphernalia included a digital scale and sandwich bags used to package controlled substances, which police say were consistent with the clear plastic baggie found with the victim at the time of her death.
Agbi and the government have since agreed that, if the court accepts the plea agreement, he will be sentenced to nine years and six months in federal prison.
The man’s sentencing will take place Sept. 20 at 9 a.m., according to the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office. | 2022-05-06T16:29:49Z | www.wusa9.com | Man arrested after woman dies from fentanyl overdose in Greenbelt | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-germantown-man-arrested-after-woman-dies-from-fentanyl-overdose-drugs/65-cc58ed86-0fb8-471a-ac90-8c72c8caf4ed | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/maryland-germantown-man-arrested-after-woman-dies-from-fentanyl-overdose-drugs/65-cc58ed86-0fb8-471a-ac90-8c72c8caf4ed |
Prince William Co. needs your help spotting the invasive spotted lanternfly
Virginia has been on the hunt for the tree-feeding pests since last year.
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — Prince William County officials are once again on the hunt for invasive species first spotted in Northern Virginia in March of 2021.
While the presence of the pest is currently limited to a few areas of the county, the Prince William County Public Works, Mosquito and Forest Pest Management Branch is looking for the public’s help finding and reporting the pest in efforts to control the spread.
“It’s still fairly early at this point. We’re still trying to look for areas where it is,” said Forest and Pest Management Branch Environmental Analyst Valerie Huelsman in a press release. “That’s why we’re encouraging people to report it when they see it."
Spotted lanternfly eggs can survive the winter. Now that it is spring, eggs are beginning to hatch from egg masses that look like small mud smears, officials said.
Spotted lanternfly eggs can survive the winter. Now that it is spring, eggs are beginning to hatch from egg masses that look like small mud smears.
Spotted lanternflies can lay their eggs on a wide variety of surfaces such as tree bark, bricks, lumber, decorative stone and even train cars, trucks and other vehicles, which is one way they spread geographically. When trains or trucks loaded cargo move around with egg masses, so does the spotted lanternfly.
“If they find them, they should try to destroy them,” Huelsman said of egg masses. “You can scrape them into a baggie filled with hand sanitizer, shake it around to make sure they’re all covered. Double bag that and throw that away. That’s a safe way to get rid of egg masses.”
RELATED: Beautiful, colorful, and dangerous: Lanternfly sighted in Northern Virginia
The lanternfly evolved in Asia and has no natural predators in the Americas. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is still figuring out the best way to go after them.
“There are some things that are learning to go after them and there’s a lot of work being done by the United States Department of Agriculture and others to bring in their native predators that can help to suppress the population. Those predators will work a lot better than the secondary predators that are finding them. Birds, spiders, and predatory insects are starting to go after them, but they’re not going to be able to suppress at levels enough to control them,” Huelsman said.
Virginia Department of Agriculture Consumer Services, the Virginia Cooperative Extension Prince William Unit, or VCE, and Mosquito and Forest Pest Management Branch, the USDA and the Virginia Department of Forestry are all working together to try and control the spread of the spotted lanternfly.
The county also has a reporting survey https://bit.ly/reportSLFinPWC where people can alert the PWC Spotted Lanternfly Management Team of any suspected spotted lanternfly activity. | 2022-05-06T16:29:55Z | www.wusa9.com | Prince William Co enlists help to find invasive lanternfly | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/spotted-lantern-fly-prince-william-county-virginia/65-20ef0b7a-4ce3-47f6-825d-e68d4680523d | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/spotted-lantern-fly-prince-william-county-virginia/65-20ef0b7a-4ce3-47f6-825d-e68d4680523d |
Prince William County recently had a big drug seizure and two teen deaths related to counterfeit Percocet laced with fentanyl.
MANASSAS, Va. — As law enforcement in Prince William County sends a warning to communities about fake drugs laced with fentanyl, the commonwealth attorney stressed the need for more resources to address mental health and substance abuse issues.
Two teenagers recently died after consuming counterfeit Percocet laced with the highly potent synthetic opioid fentanyl, according to police.
Investigators announced a drug seizure of several firearms and more than 5,000 of the same fake pills, also known as Perc30, days later. A police spokesperson was unable to confirm if the drugs seized were connected to the teen overdose deaths. Four people allegedly involved in the drug seizure have been arrested, including two 19-year-olds.
Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney Amy Ashworth could not elaborate on pending cases, but said there seems to be more cases surfacing related to Perc30. While her office does not keep track of how many cases related to fentanyl they prosecute, Ashworth said a special investigative unit directed to handle large-scale distribution cases has remained busy.
"I know they've been very busy and I believe they've had a lot of success, which has helped lead to bigger and bigger distribution cases being broken," Ashworth said. "We know when one supplier is taken down, there's another one to fill their space."
Prosecutors across the country have enhanced efforts to prosecute dealers, especially as fentanyl-related deaths have gone up across the country.
The City of Alexandria Police Department is also warning the community about a recent spike in suspected fentanyl-related overdoses in school-aged kids. In many cases, users are unaware fentanyl is laced into the narcotic.
Ashworth said she would rather put more focus on preventative measures.
"We don't have enough mental health resources available for people and I'd love to see it on the federal, state, and local level to start focusing more on the causes that make people go out and abuse substances especially once that are deadly like this," Ashworth said.
As the main public health provider in the county, Prince William County's Department of Community Services provides treatment or referral, prevention and treatment services in the clinic, community, and public high schools, and runs at-risk youth prevention groups in the community.
"Right now there's a waiting list at the Community Services Board," Ashworth added. "If you can't afford a counselor or don't have insurance for counseling, there's a waiting list. That's insanity there shouldn't be a waiting list."
According to a statement from the Prince William County government, since January, Community Services has been coordinating youth opioid use brainstorming sessions with local stakeholders.
The purpose of the brainstorming sessions is to examine the scope of the problem, current gaps in services, and strategies for addressing the treatment needs of youth struggling with opioid use disorders. | 2022-05-06T18:00:07Z | www.wusa9.com | More mental health services needed amid overdoses, officials say | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/prince-william-county-commonwealth-attorney-says-there-are-not-enough-resources-to-address-mental-health-needs/65-75669ed3-3db7-4530-8e3d-7394dbc3496b | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/prince-william-county-commonwealth-attorney-says-there-are-not-enough-resources-to-address-mental-health-needs/65-75669ed3-3db7-4530-8e3d-7394dbc3496b |
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Officers claim the victim, identified as 33-year-old Javon Washington, was sitting at a stoplight when a black SUV pulled up next to him and fired multiple shots.
BOWIE, Md. — Prince George's County Police are investigating after a man was shot and killed in his car Thursday night.
According to the Prince George's County Police Department, the shooting happened around 11 p.m. at the intersection of Enterprise Road and Annapolis Road.
Washington was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment but later died.
Detectives are working to find a suspect in this case and are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and indictment.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call detectives at 301-516-2512. Callers who wish to remain anonymous may reach out via Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS or online at www.pgcrimesolvers.com. Tips can also be sent through the P3 Tips mobile app.
2 arrested in deadly shooting outside Prince George's County apartment complex
WATCH NEXT: Prince George's County leaders angry at DC's new bus yard plans | 2022-05-06T19:33:19Z | www.wusa9.com | Police investigate deadly shooting in Bowie, Maryland | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/man-sitting-stoplight-shot-killed-prince-georges-county-police-reward/65-5e33c77c-7b25-4421-b34b-4fad6f0ad97d | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/man-sitting-stoplight-shot-killed-prince-georges-county-police-reward/65-5e33c77c-7b25-4421-b34b-4fad6f0ad97d |
WUSA9 reviewed all the stories it has covered involving gun crimes against children between May 4, 2021 and May 4, 2022.
WASHINGTON — Dozens of children have found themselves the victims of gunfire in the DC region over the last year.
On Friday, the Prince George’s County Police Department released surveillance video of a shooting that injured a 4-year-old and a 14-year-old in District Heights on Wednesday.
"It's nonsense that the children can't come out here and play safely," said District Heights Acting Police Chief Ronald Tarpley.
Luckily, both children survived.
However, the incident once again put into focus how frequently children are injured in such crimes.
Between May 4, 2021 to May 4, 2022, WUSA9 has covered 42 separate shootings where a child was either struck or observed violence take place.
Additionally, during those shooting incidents, 41 children were either injured or killed.
This interactive map shows the reach of gun violence against children is spread across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Each dot on the map includes a link to an article about the crime that impacted a child’s life.
In five of those incidents, at least two to three children were hurt.
This @PGPDNews video made us think - how many kids in the DC area have been injured in shootings Well, in the last year, 41 kids have been killed or injured in shootings we've covered at @wusa9. Unfortunately, there's probably more than that too.
See map: https://t.co/h2KnnsU8WX https://t.co/7biHmo2hK8 pic.twitter.com/dZpKVzM1TM
In another 29 shooting incidents, only one child was shot at the scene of the crime.
It must be noted, however, that this map only includes data from cases WUSA9 has covered. It is likely there are more children who would qualify to be placed on the map in the DC region as well.
WUSA9's Jess Arnold recently explored how gun crime traumatizes youth in our area. Activists across the DC region are working to fight the problem. Her stories can be found by clicking here. | 2022-05-07T16:29:29Z | www.wusa9.com | At least 41 children shot in the DC region over the last year | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/guns-have-injured-at-least-forty-children-in-the-dc-region-over-the-last-year/65-fd1aa3e1-7ed9-4891-9202-32be14e394d4 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/guns-have-injured-at-least-forty-children-in-the-dc-region-over-the-last-year/65-fd1aa3e1-7ed9-4891-9202-32be14e394d4 |
The owner says the area is no longer safe for their families
DISTRICT HEIGHTS, Md. — A Prince George’s County daycare center has decided to close its doors in the upcoming weeks citing the recent spike in violent crimes in District Heights.
After 7 years servicing the community, SKC Early Education Centers has decided to close their location in the Penn Station shopping center on July 1 due to the increasing safety concerns.
"That part of PG County is losing a gem and it’s really sad," she added.
The decision comes just days after two boys were injured in a drive-by shooting in broad daylight about a mile from the center. A 4-year-old, a 14-year-old were hurt and a dog died on the scene.
“I did not want to be driving to pick up my daughter one day and bullets are flying out of nowhere, that’s scary. No parent should have to worry about that. You are thinking, am I actually going to get hurt while I pick up my child from daycare" says Wellington.
An excerpt of Campbell's letter states:
After 7 years of servicing the community at Penn Station, it is with deep regret that we inform you we have made the hard decision to close this location only. In light of the recent spike in violent crimes within the shopping center, lack of support from the management company and no visible security presence, we feel that the shopping center is no longer a safe area for our families. Our anticipated closing date will be on July 1st. SKC currently operates 3 additional locations in Largo, Watkins Park and Trade Zone Ave.
In the next week, we will be reaching out to families individually to discuss how we can meet your needs at one of our other locations. We have put all other enrollments on hold to ensure we can accomodate our existing families as you are our number one priority. Teachers will start to transition within the next 2 weeks. We understand that this decision may impose a hardship on some families but we are committed to the safety and well being of every child in our care. As a result of this closure, we are committed to keeping your tuition rates in line with the Penn Station rate schedule through the end of this calendar year.
In a statement, Prince George’s County Police told WUSA9 that their Westphalia station has been in communication with the management company to address safety concerns and offer suggestions on steps to take to improve safety there, adding, “We will also work to provide a crime prevention survey. Officers routinely patrol all shopping centers in the division and will increase those patrols. The safety of all who live and work in Prince’s George’s County is our top concern."
WUSA9 did reach out to the management company of the shopping center for a comment but we have yet to hear back from them in time for this report. | 2022-05-09T09:01:35Z | www.wusa9.com | District Heights daycare center is closing due to violence | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/crime-forces-prince-georges-county-daycare-center-to-close/65-cc4f5e7a-dcfa-4753-b95b-f918af2a9003 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/crime-forces-prince-georges-county-daycare-center-to-close/65-cc4f5e7a-dcfa-4753-b95b-f918af2a9003 |
Meet the man who could decide women's rights in Virginia
Democratic Virginia State Senator Joe Morrissey finds himself as the potential swing vote in the abortion debate.
RICHMOND, Va. — Democratic State Senator Joe Morrissey of Richmond has a rare power in Virginia politics: he has leverage on the abortion debate.
"As one of those, perhaps deciding, members in the Senate, I absolutely promise, that I’m going to listen to both sides," said Sen. Morrissey.
If he doesn’t vote alongside his fellow Democrats, Republicans could have enough votes to pass new abortion restrictions.
Senator Morrissey is no stranger to controversy.
The still-disbarred attorney was convicted in 2014 of having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old employee he later married. Then-Governor Northam later pardoned Morrissey for the misdemeanor conviction.
RELATED: Northam pardons scandal-scarred state Sen. Joe Morrissey
"I am personally opposed to abortion but I think it’s a very personal and intimate decision that has to be made between the woman and her partner, her doctor and perhaps her spiritual advisor," explained Sen. Morrissey.
It all comes down to a number of weeks. Currently, Virginia allows elective abortions up to 25 weeks of pregnancy, but the procedure is more restricted afterward. Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin has expressed support for banning abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy, under a so-called “fetal pain" bill. However, fetuses can’t experience pain until at least 29 weeks according to the American Medical Association.
"I want to hear from the experts. If the fetus feels pain somewhere between 20 to 25 weeks, then maybe that might be a marker," explained Morrissey.
Since Democrats control the Virginia Senate, they have not allowed any Republican abortion rights bills to get out of the Senate Education and Health committee for a full vote. WUSA9 asked Sen. Morrissey whether he would use his leverage and leave the Democratic party to force that vote.
"Off the table," declared Morrissey. "I’m not going to caucus with Republicans. I’m very happy where I am caucusing with the Democrats."
Taking that possibility off the table simultaneously weakens Senator Morrissey’s leverage and strengthens the hand of Virginia abortion rights supporters. | 2022-05-09T21:21:32Z | www.wusa9.com | Abortion rights in Virginia ride on swing senator's vote | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/morrissey-takes-virginia-abortion-stance/65-87072606-9dab-483b-915e-55e75432cb85 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/morrissey-takes-virginia-abortion-stance/65-87072606-9dab-483b-915e-55e75432cb85 |
D.C., Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia each have their own laws regarding who can vote in primary elections
WASHINGTON — The midterm primary elections are kicking off across the country.
Here are the primary days in our region:
West Virginia- May 10
D.C.- June 21
Virginia- June 21
Maryland- July 19
But before you rush out to vote you need to know the rules, because each locality is different.
Who can vote in the primaries in D.C., Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia?
Virginia Department of Elections- website and spokesperson
Maryland State Board of Elections- website and spokesperson
West Virginia Secretary of State- website and spokesperson
District of Columbia Board of Elections- website
Maryland and D.C. have closed primary elections, meaning you must be registered to that party to vote in partisan races.
Virginia has an open primary election, so all eligible voters can choose to vote in whichever primary.
West Virginia is a little different. If you are registered to a party you must vote in that party's election; however if you are unaffiliated you can choose, which election to vote in.
Maryland is a closed primary state. That means, for example, you have to be a Democrat to vote in the Democratic primary, and a Republican to vote in the Republican primary. There are some nonpartisan races, like for school board races, where all voters can cast a ballot. There are 831,254 unaffiliated voters registered in Maryland, according to the most recent data from April.
D.C. is also a closed primary state, however all voters can vote on initiatives and referendums. There are 80,064 voters registered as "no party" in D.C., according to recent D.C. Board of Elections data.
In Virginia, the Commonwealth has what’s called an "open primary." That means you can vote in any primary you want, but only one.
"In Virginia, a voter can vote in any primary they want, but they can only vote in one of the primaries (they cannot vote more than once)," Andrea Gaines, a spokesperson for the Virginia Department of Elections said. "Voters can choose to affiliate with whatever party they choose; Virginia voters do not register with a party in order to cast their ballots."
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Last but not least, in West Virginia, they do something a little different.
If you are unaffiliated with a political party, you get to choose which party’s ballot you want; however, If you’re registered to a party, you get that ballot.
"Voters registered with one of the four recognized political parties in the state have to vote in that party's primary," Landon Palmer, a spokesperson for West Virginia's Secretary of State Mac Warner, said. "They do not have the option to choose a different ballot. Unaffiliated voters may choose any party ballot they would like, but must request one from the poll workers. A poll worker will give them a nonpartisan ballot unless a specific one is specifically requested."
A nonpartisan ballot includes things like nonpartisan races and ballot issues (i.e. board of education or constitutional amendments), a specialist from the West Virginia Secretary of State's Office explained.
RELATED: VERIFY: Here are acceptable forms of ID to vote in Virginia | 2022-05-09T21:21:38Z | www.wusa9.com | Rules about open and closed primaries in DC, Maryland, Virginia | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/verify/what-are-the-primary-rules-in-dc-maryland-virginia-west-virginia-who-can-vote-fact-check/65-cefa1da7-3982-4d3e-b622-31a147e58db8 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/verify/what-are-the-primary-rules-in-dc-maryland-virginia-west-virginia-who-can-vote-fact-check/65-cefa1da7-3982-4d3e-b622-31a147e58db8 |
The group plans to host a vigil near Alito's home starting at 7:30 p.m. after the group claims they haven't been able to reach Alito at the Supreme Court.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A group of activists plans to host a vigil outside Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito's home in Alexandria, Virginia, on Monday evening.
According to the website shutdowndc.org, the group will hold a vigil for "all these rights that Alito is threatening to take away."
The group plans to hold a moment of silence as part of the vigil.
"We will hold a moment of silence for the rights we know are ours, then walk back together to the meeting location," the website reads. | 2022-05-09T22:56:03Z | www.wusa9.com | Group to hold vigil near Supreme Court Justice Alito's home | wusa9.com | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/group-hold-vigil-outside-supreme-court-justice-samuel-alitos-home/65-0e70723b-6696-4829-bb56-e9887021c480 | https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/group-hold-vigil-outside-supreme-court-justice-samuel-alitos-home/65-0e70723b-6696-4829-bb56-e9887021c480 |
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