May 7, 2015
Destinie Mogg-Barkalow
News Writer
Flash News
World
Nuclear Agreement in progress with Iran
The Senate passed a bill to give Congress reviewing authority over an agreement with Iran. 98 to 1, the vote was almost unanimous to send the bill to the House. The House plans to take up the bill next week.
National
NSA record collection ruled illegal
The ACLU brought a lawsuit against the NSA claiming the collection of every phone call in America exceeds what is authorized by Congress. Some NSA officials have reported that the collection program is of little value as a counterterrorism tool. In light of this, Thursday a federal appeals court ruled the massive telephone data collection, illegal under the Patriot Act.
Washington, D.C.
Auditor scrutinizing police’s ‘use-of-force’ procedures
The District’s Auditor’s office is taking a new look at police protocol used in the capitol. In light of recent riots the auditors hired a consultant to ascertain if the police force is following mandated reforms by the Justice Department. An independent monitor who oversaw the reforms will review the reforms to determine if the department is still in compliance.
Washington, D.C.
Council member demands police body-cam footage should be public
A Council hearing Thursday will help decide on the parameters for the cameras’ use. Kenyan McDuffie believes the footage should be disclosed to the public to ensure transparency and accountability. During Washington D.C.’s pilot program, footage captured led to disciplinary action for some officers, but specifics have not been made public.
Virginia
Couple struck by lightning at Virginia middle school
A couple was struck by lightning on Wednesday at Pocahontas Middle School. While watching their granddaughter play in a girls soccer match, officials asked spectators to disperse because of weather concerns. They are now in stable condition at the VCU medical center.
World
North Korea threatens nuclear warfare capabilities
Officials were surprised when they received word about a sit-down interview granted with a member of North Korea’s inner circle. Senior figures in Pyongyang never do interviews with the press. Park Yong Chol said North Korea has “invested a lot of money” in their defense program to counter the U.S. threat and will use these weapons if their hand is “forced.”
Maryland
Mayor announces #OneBaltimore campaign to rebuild city
Baltimore’s mayor joined together with the city to provide an initiative to support the ongoing efforts to restore damaged areas. The Department of Housing and Community Development made loans available for suffering businesses to continue revitalization efforts. The Mayor also continues to ask for citizen support “through the long haul.”
Maryland
Salisbury University Fraternity suspended until 2017
The fraternity was initially suspended in 2012 when the university uncovered the members participating in hazing. They were in violations of many conduct codes including, but not limited to, forcing their members to drink. In 2014, the chapter recruited members and provided false information to the police further extending their punishment.