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A Newton psychologist, Eric Brown, will plead guilty to defrauding a psychotherapy patient and a relative, allegedly swindling nearly $1 million. Prosecutors charged him with wire fraud and money laundering after he mismanaged the patient's trust funds and misled a family member about a loan. Brown faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted.
A gunman opened fire at a church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, during a Sunday service, killing at least two people and injuring eight others before police shot him. The suspect, identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, allegedly set the church ablaze after the shooting. Investigators are examining his residence for further details, including his potential ties to the church.
President Donald Trump plans to send troops to Portland, Oregon, citing the need to address "domestic terrorists" and protect federal facilities. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek condemned the decision, asserting that the city is capable of managing its own public safety without military intervention. Local leaders echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the absence of an emergency in the city.
Marcus Jones's 87-yard touchdown sparked the New England Patriots to a decisive 42-13 victory over the Carolina Panthers. The Patriots dominated the game, leading 28-6 at halftime, with standout performances from Jones, Stefon Diggs, and Drake Maye. Carolina struggled to gain traction, with their offense limited to short gains throughout the match.
Some individuals are taping their mouths shut at night in hopes of improving sleep quality and reducing snoring, but doctors strongly advise against this practice. Experts warn that mouth taping can worsen sleep disorders like sleep apnea and pose suffocation risks, as there is no substantial evidence supporting its effectiveness. Alternative solutions include using prescription mouthpieces or CPAP machines to address underlying issues.
A former Boston police sergeant, Paul Downey, 58, pleaded not guilty to multiple charges of raping a 14-year-old boy in Suffolk Superior Court. Downey, who was indicted after initially being arraigned in Boston Municipal Court, faces serious allegations involving payment for sex and electronic enticement. He has been released on bail and previously retired from the police force.
A Webster man, Gerardo Cruz-Rivera, 34, faces charges for allegedly setting a fire that destroyed two multi-family homes in Southbridge, displacing 12 families. The fire, reported early on November 13, 2024, prompted a significant response from multiple fire departments, and Cruz-Rivera was indicted after an investigation revealed the blaze was intentionally set. He is currently held without bail, awaiting a dangerousness hearing on October 1.
Massachusetts health officials confirmed two new human cases of West Nile virus, raising the total to eight this season. The risk level has been elevated to high in several communities across four counties, prompting officials to urge residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.
A Dartmouth man faces multiple charges following a house explosion on Sept. 2 that killed a dog and injured a resident. Kevin Ruiz, 54, allegedly possessed fireworks that contributed to the blast, which resulted in significant property damage. He is scheduled for arraignment on Oct. 6.
Two kittens, Sparky and Pisces, were rescued from car engines in Southeastern Massachusetts, prompting the Animal Rescue League of Boston to advise drivers to check under their hoods. Sparky, a 6-week-old female, was adopted by her finder, while Pisces, a 5-month-old male, is undergoing treatment for injuries. The ARL highlights the danger of kittens seeking warmth in car engines, especially during colder weather.