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Post Malone's former fiancée is seeking full physical custody of their daughter requesting a judge to grant the musician visitation rights only.
Hee Sung "Jamie" Park submitted custody papers in Los Angeles earlier this week, requesting that the court grant her primary physical custody of their 2-year-old daughter, referred to in the documents as "DDP."
Hee Sung "Jamie" Park
She indicated her willingness to share legal custody of DDP and expressed that she is open to allowing him visitation or "parenting time" with their child. Park asserts that DDP has been living with her since November 2024, which coincides with the time sources reported her separation from Malone.
Following their split, Malone was seen with Christy Lee, his new girlfriend, whom he has been dating since at least the start of the year. Since the news of their relationship emerged, Malone and Lee have been spotted together on several occasions, including a romantic dinner in Paris earlier this month.
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It's important to note that while Malone has not yet responded to these custody filings, he has recently submitted his own custody documents in Utah, which are sealed, leaving the details of his desired arrangement unknown.
As this custody battle moves forward, legal experts suggest the outcome will largely depend on factors such as the child's best interests, the parents' respective involvement in her life, and the ability to co-parent effectively. While Post Malone has requested visitation rights, the court will ultimately determine the most suitable arrangement, keeping the child’s well-being at the forefront of the decision.
Diddy's court case will continue as planned... after a judge ruled on his legal team's request to postpone the trial for two months—and denied any extension.
P Diddy Beating his Girlfriend in Hotel.
A hearing took place in New York City on Friday, where Diddy's legal team expressed concerns about the slow pace at which prosecutors were providing evidence.
They requested additional time from the judge to thoroughly review all the discovery materials. However, the judge disagreed, noting that Diddy is represented by four law firms, which should be sufficient for them to prepare for the trial set to begin on May 5.
Diddy has been incarcerated at MDC Brooklyn, a well-known federal jail in New York City, since his arrest at a Manhattan hotel in September. He faces five federal charges, including two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of transportation for prostitution, and one count of racketeering.
"Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs vodka party
Diddy has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his legal team is challenging key evidence in the case, such as a video showing Diddy assaulting Cassie in a hotel corridor.
Several alleged victims, most of whom remain anonymous, are expected to testify against Diddy during the trial, including Cassie, who will use her real name.
Diddy and Family
The judge has decided that "Victim 3" and "Victim 4" will be referred to by pseudonyms, while "Victim 2" will simply be called "Victim 2." In addition to the criminal charges, Diddy is also facing multiple civil lawsuits.
Updated 14 November, 2025
Sean “Diddy” Combs, once one of the most powerful figures in hip-hop, is now a federal inmate serving a four-year sentence after one of the most high-profile celebrity trials in recent memory. In July 2025, a jury convicted the 55-year-old on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, while acquitting him of sex-trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. Three months later, Judge Arun Subramanian sentenced him to 50 months in prison, a $500,000 fine, and five years of supervised release.
Combs has already spent more than a year inside Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center, where his lawyers say he endured “inhumane” conditions—ranging from maggot-contaminated food to constant suicide-watch checks and long stretches without fresh air. Although his legal team had pushed for a far lighter 14-month term, prosecutors urged the court to impose a much harsher sentence.
As appeals begin and Combs’ projected release date is now set for May 8, 2028, the timeline below traces the key events that led from his rise as a music mogul to his incarceration—and the developments that have unfolded since.
Sean John Combs, born on November 4, 1969, in the Harlem area of New York City. He was brought up in Mount Vernon, New York. His mother, Janice Combs (née Smalls), worked as a model and a teacher's assistant, while his father, Melvin Earl Combs, was a member of the U.S. Air Force and had connections with the notorious New York drug dealer Frank Lucas. Tragically, when Combs was just two years old, his father was shot and killed in his car on Central Park West at the age of 33. He has one sister and experienced a childhood marked by financial struggles.
Combs grew up in a Catholic household and was an altar boy during his youth. He completed his education at Mount Saint Michael Academy, an all-boys Catholic institution, in 1987. While there, he was part of the football team that clinched a division title in 1986. Combs shared that he earned the nickname "Puff" as a kid because he would "huff and puff" when he got upset. Initially, Combs pursued a business degree at Howard University but decided to leave after his sophomore year.
In 1990, Combs started his internship at Uptown Records in New York City. During his time there as a talent director, he worked closely with the label's founder, Andre Harrell, and played a key role in nurturing the careers of Jodeci and Mary J. Blige. Back in college, Combs was known for hosting parties that drew crowds of up to a thousand people.
In 1991, Combs organized an AIDS fundraiser alongside Heavy D at the gymnasium of City College of New York (CCNY), which took place after a charity basketball game. The event attracted a large crowd, leading to an unfortunate stampede that resulted in the deaths of nine individuals.
Not long after his departure from Uptown in 1993, Combs launched his own label, Bad Boy Records, which formed a partnership with Arista Records. He also took along Christopher Wallace, famously known as the Notorious B.I.G., who was previously signed to Uptown.
In 1996, Combs, known as Puff Daddy, made his mark in the music industry with his first commercial vocal project as a rapper. His debut single, "Can't Nobody Hold Me Down," enjoyed an impressive 28-week run on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching the top spot. Following this success, his first album, No Way Out, was launched on July 22, 1997, via Bad Boy Records. Initially named Hell up in Harlem, the album went through various modifications after the tragic death of the Notorious B.I.G. on March 9, 1997.
In 1998, Combs launched his clothing brand, Sean John. The brand received a nomination for the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) award for Menswear Designer of the Year in 2000 and took home the award in 2004.
In 2003, California billionaire Ronald Burkle made a significant investment of $100 million into the company. However, in late 2006, Macy's decided to pull Sean John jackets from their stores after discovering they contained raccoon dog fur. Combs was unaware that the jackets were made from real fur, but he promptly halted production once he was informed.
In April 1999, Combs faced charges for assaulting Steve Stoute, who was associated with Interscope Records. Stoute managed Nas, with whom Combs had collaborated on a video earlier that year for the track "Hate Me Now." Combs had reservations about the video, particularly a scene depicting both him and Nas being crucified, which he found offensive. He requested that his scenes on the cross be removed, but after the unedited version aired on MTV on April 15, Combs went to Stoute's office and ended up injuring him.
In 2001, Combs updated his stage name from "Puff Daddy" to "P. Diddy" and terminated Bad Boy's distribution agreement with Arista Records, allowing him to take complete control over the label, its catalog, and the artists signed to it.
Combs performed at the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show.
In 2006, when Combs declined to let rapper Mase out of his contract with Bad Boy so he could join G-Unit, 50 Cent responded by recording a diss track titled "Hip-Hop." The song's lyrics suggest that Combs was aware of who killed the Notorious B.I.G. Although the two eventually settled their differences, tensions flared up again in subsequent years.
Between 2007 and 2022, P. Diddy (Sean Combs) continued to expand his influence beyond music and invested in everything from Vodka to cable tv.
These events highlight P. Diddy’s evolution from music mogul to a multifaceted businessman, making him a key figure in entertainment and entrepreneurship.
November 16, 2023: Cassie Ventura Sexual Abuse Allegations
On November 16, 2023, Cassandra Ventura, better known as the singer Cassie, filed a personal injury lawsuit claiming she endured years of sexual abuse, harassment, and rape during her long-term relationship with Combs.
In her legal complaint, Cassie also accused Combs of threatening to blow up Kid Cudi’s car; shortly afterward, Cudi’s vehicle did explode, and he confirmed the details outlined in her filing. The case was brought under New York’s Adult Survivors Act and was resolved just one day later for an undisclosed settlement.
November 23, 2023: Additional Lawsuits
On November 23, 2023, just a week before the deadline for submissions under the Adult Survivors Act, Combs faced two additional lawsuits. Joi Dickerson-Neal claimed that he engaged in misconduct during the 1990s after they went on a date when she was 19.
The lawsuit alleges that Combs drugged and raped her while recording the incident. Additionally, another anonymous lawsuit accuses Combs, along with singer Aaron Hall, of sexually assaulting a woman and then physically assaulting her days later.
December 6, 2023: Gang Rape
On December 6, 2023, Combs faces accusations related to a gang rape incident from 2003, where he is alleged to have drugged a 17-year-old victim. Two other men are also implicated in the alleged assault, which reportedly occurred in a recording studio. The fallout from these allegations is significant, leading Combs to resign as chairman of Revolt TV, and several brands choose to sever their connections with him.
In response, Combs took to Instagram to firmly deny all the claims made against him, stating, “I did not do any of the awful things being alleged. I will fight for my name, my family, and for the truth.”
February 26, 2024: Sexual Assault
On February 26, 2024, the high-profile lawsuit involving Lil’ Rod was filed, with allegations against Combs for sexual assault and coercing the emerging producer into interactions with sex workers, drug use, and other inappropriate behaviors. The lawsuit outlines Rodney “Lil’ Rod” Jones’ challenging 14-month experience while working alongside Combs.
The 38-year-old claims he faced sexual assault, was allegedly compelled by Combs to perform sexual acts, solicited sex workers, was drugged, humiliated, and groped multiple times. His attorneys suggest that the underlying reason for the lawsuit is that Jones was not compensated for his contributions to Combs’ 2023 album. In response, Combs’ legal representatives have dismissed the allegations as “pure fiction,” asserting that Jones did not fulfill the work he claims to have done for the Grammy-nominated album, The Love Album: Off the Grid.
March 25, 2024: FBI Raids
March 25, 2024: The Combs case intensifies as significant scrutiny falls on his activities following raids conducted by authorities at his properties in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. This action is part of a wide-ranging investigation into allegations of sex trafficking. The timing coincides with the Lil Rod lawsuit, which had already sparked concerns about the mogul’s conduct, further complicating Combs' situation.
As a result, he quickly became a frequent topic of gossip and conspiracy theories online. Combs' attorney at the time, Aaron Dyer, criticized the raids, describing them as a “gross overuse of military-level force” and claiming that the “unprecedented ambush was accompanied by a highly coordinated media presence.”
April 4, 2024: Yacht Assault
On April 4, 2024, a lawsuit has brought Christian Combs, the son of the rap mogul, into the spotlight regarding a sexual assault incident. The allegations suggest that a staff member was involved in an incident on a yacht rented by the troubled rapper. The lawsuit claims that Combs played a role in creating an atmosphere that permitted the assault to occur.
April 26, 2024: Revenge Porn and Human Trafficking
On April 26, 2024, Combs' legal team takes a proactive stance by submitting motions to dismiss significant parts of the lawsuits. Their main point is that certain allegations, such as those concerning revenge porn and human trafficking, were not considered illegal back in 1991, the year when the incidents supposedly took place. This is particularly relevant to Dickerson's case, which involves the distribution of footage related to the alleged rape. In their filing, they also criticize the "many false, offensive, and sensational claims" that have been made.
May 10, 2024: Studio Assault
On May 10, 2024, Combs' legal representatives are once again challenging the accusations made against him. They argue that the lawsuit brought by a woman from Detroit, who claims that Combs and two others assaulted her in a studio back in 2003, was submitted beyond the allowable time frame. Additionally, they describe the allegations regarding Combs' conduct as "false and horrific."
May 17, 2024: Hotel Assault on Cassie
On May 17, 2024, Combs faced a significant setback to his reputation when CNN released a video showing him in a robe walking down a hotel hallway, where he violently attacked his ex-girlfriend, Cassie, back in 2016. The disturbing footage quickly spread across various media outlets, prompting Combs to publicly apologize. In a video statement shared on his Instagram, he expressed, “My actions in that video are unacceptable. I fully own my behavior in that moment.”
June 10, 2024: Suge Knight
On June 10, 2024, Suge Knight, a longtime rival of Diddy in the rap industry and former head of Death Row Records, shared a controversial theory from prison. He suggested that Diddy is collaborating with the FBI as an informant, which Knight believes explains why Combs has been able to operate without facing consequences. “
There shouldn’t be any ambiguity when it comes to doing the right thing, making a positive impact, or contributing to the community,” Knight stated during an episode of his podcast, Collect Call with Suge Knight. “With that in mind, it’s clear that Puffy has been an FBI informant for a long time, as people often say. That’s what sets him apart.”
August 26, 2024: Freak off Parties
On August 26, 2024, Combs' legal team filed a motion to dismiss the sensational case brought by Lil Rod, arguing that his claims were not only exaggerated but some were outright fabricated. They alleged that Jones was merely trying to leverage his fame for media attention and a potentially hefty settlement. The attorneys pointed out that Jones' original complaint against Combs was related to nonpayment, and it was only after he collaborated with his lawyer, Tyrone Blackburn, that he began to make these scandalous allegations.
This included the claim that Combs was using compromising material as a means to exert power and control over others. The complaint stated, “Mr. Combs has compromising footage of every individual who has attended his ‘freak off’ parties and his house gatherings,” referring to the purported multi-day sex parties the mogul allegedly hosted. “Based on the information available, it is believed that this extensive collection of evidence leads Mr. Combs to think he is above the law and beyond reproach.”
September 11, 2024: Dawn Richard Lawsuit
On September 11, 2024, singer Dawn Richard initiated her tenth lawsuit against Combs, following a series of legal actions that started in November. Richard, who founded the girl group Danity Kane in 2003 with Combs as her mentor on MTV’s Making the Band, claims that during their collaboration, she endured years of both psychological and physical abuse, including instances of groping.
Related: Dawn Richard Sues Sean 'Diddy' Combs
September 15, 2024: Last Day of Freedom
On September 15, 2024, Combs made his way back to New York, seemingly prepared for his impending arrest. He was seen several times throughout Manhattan, and sources suggest that the troubled near-billionaire appeared to be in high spirits. Just a day before his arrest, Combs was seen interacting with fans in Central Park, and a photo acquired by News Nation shows him sitting on a bench alongside his attorney. Later that evening, he was captured on camera strolling around the city with his son, Christian Combs.
On September 16, 2024, Combs was taken into custody in Manhattan. The next day, an indictment was made public, alleging that the disgraced mogul engaged in a long-standing pattern of physical and sexual violence against women.
Federal prosecutors accused him of sex trafficking and racketeering, claiming he orchestrated a large criminal operation that involved assaulting and trafficking women through his numerous businesses since at least 2008. He entered a plea of not guilty and sought a $60 million bond, but the judge ruled that he would remain in detention until his trial. He is currently in federal custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where he is awaiting trial and was briefly placed on suicide watch. His cellmate is Sam Bankman-Fried, who is serving a 25-year sentence.
Related: Sean 'Diddy' Combs arrested at Park Hyatt
September 17, 2024: Criminal Organization
The charges against Combs have been made public. He is described as the leader of a criminal organization involved in activities such as sex trafficking, forced labor, interstate transportation for prostitution, drug-related crimes, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.
The indictment alleges that he “engaged in a continuous and widespread pattern of abuse towards women and others,” which included physical violence, all to “satisfy his sexual urges, safeguard his reputation, and hide his actions.” Combs has appeared in a federal court in New York, where he entered a plea of not guilty. A judge has ruled that he will be held without bail while he awaits his trial.
September 24, 2024: P Diddy Accused of Rape in 'Laced Drink' Lawsuit
Thalia Graves, a 53-year-old woman has initiated a federal lawsuit asserting that Sean “Diddy” Combs had her restrained while unclothed and “brutally assaulted” her at his Bad Boy Records studio in New York City during the summer of 2001.
October 1, 2024: Paedophile Claims
Houston based attorney Tony Buzbee held a press conference alleging Combs sexually abused multiple minors. Buzbee alleged one 9-year-old boy was sexually abused after he auditioned at the Bad Boy Records Studio in New York City.
Related: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Accused of Sexual Abuse of 9-Year Old
October 8, 2024: Lawyers File Appeal Seeking Pretrial Release
Sean Diddy Combs' legal team submit an appeal seeking his release from jail prior to his trial. On Tuesday, October 8, attorney Alexander A.E. Shapiro filed the appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, according to court documents.
October 10, 2024: Trial Date Set
During a court appearance on October 10, 2024, Judge Arun Subramanian set Combs' trial start date as May 5, 2025. Sean Combs' lawyers accuse government of leaking Cassie Video to 'ruin' his reputation before trial.
October 21, 2024:
Combs' legal team sought a gag order to limit public statements about the case, as the number of civil lawsuits against him increased, with at least two dozen alleging sexual misconduct.
October 28, 2024:
Two new lawsuits were filed, accusing Combs of drugging and sexually assaulting a 10-year-old boy in 2005 and a 17-year-old reality show aspirant in 2008.
December 19, 2024:
Combs' accuser spoke to the media for the first time, providing further details about the allegations.
December 20, 2024:
LaTroya Grayson filed a lawsuit alleging that Combs drugged and sexually assaulted her at a 2006 party in New York City.
January 2025:
Multiple lawsuits were filed against Combs, including one by a woman who accused him of sexual assault when she was 16. These lawsuits span incidents from the 1990s to the 2000s, with some plaintiffs being minors at the time of the alleged assaults.
February 2025:
Combs filed a $100 million defamation lawsuit against NBCUniversal, Ample Entertainment, and Peacock over the documentary Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy, claiming the film contained defamatory statements about him.
March 2025:
A judge denied Combs' request to delay his federal sex trafficking trial. Jury selection is set to begin on May 5, 2025, with opening statements scheduled for May 12, 2025. The trial is related to sex trafficking and racketeering charges stemming from allegations that Combs used his business empire to abuse women. The judge stated that it was unclear why there wasn’t enough time for defense preparation after two additional counts were added to the case.
April 2025:
Several additional lawsuits were filed against Combs, including one by a man who accused him of sexual assault. The growing number of lawsuits continues to add pressure on Combs as the legal battle intensifies.
May 2025:
Combs' federal sex trafficking trial is set to begin. He faces charges related to sex trafficking, racketeering, and allegedly using his empire to exploit women between 2004 and 2024. Combs has pleaded not guilty to five charges, including sex trafficking and conspiracy to engage in prostitution. Authorities allege that Combs coerced at least three women into sex acts, sometimes with male prostitutes, and that some of the women were drugged and forced into prolonged sex acts at “Freak Offs.” Combs is accused of recording some of the incidents and controlling the victims through promises of financial and career opportunities as well as threats of violence.
June/July 2025: Federal Trial and Jury Deliberations
The federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial against Sean "Diddy" Combs began in May 2025. Over approximately seven weeks, the jury heard testimony from over 30 prosecution witnesses, including key accusers such as Cassie Ventura and another identified only as "Jane." Ventura testified in detail about alleged forced participation in "freak-offs" and "hotel nights" involving male sex workers, physical abuse, and threats.
The defense maintained that all encounters were consensual and that prosecutors were attempting to criminalize Combs' lifestyle. On Monday, June 30, the 8-man, 4-woman jury began deliberations. On Tuesday, July 1, the jury sent a note to Judge Arun Subramanian indicating they had reached a unanimous verdict on four of the five counts, but were deadlocked on the most serious charge: racketeering conspiracy.
The note specified that jurors on both sides held "unpersuadable views" regarding this count. While prosecutors suggested the judge issue a "modified Allen charge" to encourage a unanimous verdict, both the prosecution and defense teams agreed it was premature, as deliberations had only been ongoing for two days.
Judge Subramanian instructed the jury to continue deliberating on the remaining racketeering charge. The specific verdicts for the four counts where a decision was reached have not yet been publicly revealed as deliberations on the racketeering charge continue.
September 24, 2025: Jailhouse Education Program
Court filings revealed Combs created a six-week business course for inmates called Free Game with Diddy, teaching entrepreneurship and management skills from behind bars.
September 24, 2025: Mother’s Letter to Court
Janice Combs submitted a letter urging the judge to show mercy, acknowledging her son’s mistakes but stressing his importance as a father and provider.
September 25, 2025: Prosecutors Push for Longer Term
Prosecutors signaled they would seek a far harsher sentence of 51 to 63 months—more than four years—setting up a clash with the defense over how long Combs should remain behind bars.
September 25, 2025: New Stylist Lawsuit
Former stylist Deonte Nash filed a lawsuit alleging a decade of verbal, physical, and sexual abuse while working for Combs between 2008 and 2018, adding to the growing number of civil claims.
October 3, 2025: Sentencing Scheduled
Sean “Diddy” Combs is due to appear before Judge Arun Subramanian in federal court for sentencing on two prostitution-related convictions. His defense team is asking for no more than 14 months in prison, which would allow for his immediate release, while prosecutors are expected to push for a much longer term of 51 to 63 months. The decision will determine whether Combs walks free or remains behind bars for several more years.
Judge Arun Subramanian sentenced Sean “Diddy” Combs to 50 months in federal prison after a jury convicted him on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. He was acquitted of the other charges.
Sentence: 50 months
Fine: $500,000
Supervised release: 5 years
Credit applied for time already served at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC)
Diddy had been detained since September 2024, and those 13 months count toward his sentence. His legal team argued he had endured “inhumane” conditions at MDC, including constant suicide watch checks every two hours, poor food quality, and inconsistent access to clean water.
On October (early), attorney Alexandra Shapiro filed a formal notice of appeal, confirming that Diddy intends to challenge both the conviction and the sentence.
His lawyers have previously argued that the Mann Act was applied incorrectly in this case, though the appeal filing itself did not outline specific claims.
Diddy’s longtime friend Charlucci Finney publicly claimed that the music mogul woke up with a knife to his throat inside MDC.
Finney told the Daily Mail that the incident “may have been intended to intimidate him,” adding that if the assailant had wanted to cause real harm “it would only take a second.”
No official confirmation of the incident has been released by federal authorities.
According to the Bureau of Prisons, Sean “Diddy” Combs is scheduled for release on May 8, 2028.
He is currently housed at Brooklyn’s MDC, though he may be transferred to another federal facility to serve the remainder of his sentence.
Kennedy described autism as a 'crisis' during his inaugural press conference as the secretary of health and human services on April 16.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the newly appointed secretary of health and human services, has faced criticism for comments made during his first press conference following his appointment by President Donald Trump. In reaction to a recent CDC study indicating that 3% of children in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism, Kennedy described the increase in cases as an “epidemic” and pledged to uncover the “environmental causes” linked to the condition. Kennedy, who has previously advocated a discredited theory suggesting that vaccines cause autism, rejected the notion that the rise in diagnoses is simply due to experts gaining a better understanding of the disorder.
“One of the things that I think that we need to move away from today is this ideology that…the autism prevalence increase, the relentless increases, are simply artifacts of better diagnoses, better recognition or changing diagnostic criteria," he said. “This epidemic denial has become a feature in mainstream media.”
Kennedy is also facing criticism for the exaggerated, yet clearly inaccurate, statements he made about the lives of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
"Autism destroys families, and more importantly, it destroys our greatest resource, which is our children. These are children who should not be suffering like this," he said. “These are kids who will never pay taxes. They'll never hold a job. They'll never play baseball. They'll never write a poem. They'll never go out on a date. Many of them will never use a toilet unassisted."
During the press conference, Kennedy revealed that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is gearing up to initiate new research aimed at “pinpointing the specific environmental toxins linked to [autism].” In a statement made on April 15, after the CDC report was released, Kennedy expressed that the HHS is optimistic about having “answers” by September. However, numerous experts argue that this timeframe is insufficient, particularly given that autism research has been a focus for the medical and scientific communities for many years.
"We may have hundreds, if not thousands, of different neurogenetic factors that in combination with complicated environmental interactions influence presentations of autism," Zachary Warren, a pediatric psychiatrist and autism researcher at Vanderbilt University, told NPR.
"As a clinician, I wish I had better — and, quite frankly, simpler — answers for my families," he added. "But autism isn't a single thing; it is a word we use in an attempt to capture a spectrum of behavioral strengths, differences, and vulnerabilities in order to help optimally support children."
Difference is normal. Neurotypicals need to figure that out.
People with autism are lawyers, doctors, engineers, scientists, and teachers, play professional sports, and make incredible music. JFK Jr. is an ableist and a bigot. I feel sorry for him.
— Patricia Romero 🟦 (@EchoChoirBreach) April 17, 2025
While Lori said "I was appalled to hear JFK's comments on the future for autistic kids. It was uneducated and false. I do think it's important to look into why the autism rates have skyrocketed. I do appreciate his work on cleaning up our food. But this? This was wrong."
I was appalled to hear JFK's comments on the future for autistic kids. It was uneducated and false. I do think it's important to look into why the autism rates have skyrocketed. I do appreciate his work on cleaning up our food. But this? This was wrong.
— Lori (LMNLA) (@Arielkay2015) April 17, 2025
Opinion: Kennedy’s Views on Autism Are Oversimplified and Misguided
When Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently called autism an "epidemic" and claimed people with autism "will never pay taxes, hold a job, or go on a date," his words were not just wrong—they were harmful. Autism is a spectrum, and every person with it has a different experience. Some need more support, while others live fully independent lives. To say that individuals with autism are doomed to a life of isolation is simply inaccurate and unfair.
Kennedy’s use of the term "epidemic" is misleading. Yes, autism diagnoses have increased, but that’s because we’re better at recognizing it—not because the condition is out of control. The conversation about autism has evolved, and with it, so has our understanding of the condition.
Many people with autism, like Temple Grandin, are leading successful careers and making meaningful contributions to society. Their stories challenge the damaging idea that autism limits what individuals can achieve. Moreover, suggesting that people with autism "will never go on a date" is not only false—it’s deeply disrespectful. People with autism have relationships just like anyone else. They love, form friendships, and build fulfilling lives.
Kennedy’s comments ignore the progress we’ve made in understanding autism and supporting those who live with it. Instead of promoting fear and misunderstanding, we need leaders who embrace inclusivity and recognize the strengths of individuals with autism. What they need isn’t pity or judgment—it’s respect, empathy, and opportunities to thrive.
Rather than focusing on what people with autism can’t do, let’s focus on what they can. With the right support, people with autism can live fulfilling, independent lives. It’s time we recognize their potential, not reinforce outdated stereotypes. The future should be one where individuals with autism are seen for their abilities, not defined by their diagnosis.
The actor was detained and charged for suspected public intoxication and possession of a controlled substance at a ski resort in California on Tuesday, April 8.
Haley Joel Osment is apologizing after using derogatory slurs against a police officer during his arrest earlier this month.
The 37-year-old actor was taken into custody for suspected public intoxication and possession of a controlled substance at a ski lodge in Mammoth Lakes, California, on Tuesday, April 8. On Thursday, April 17, the Mono County District Attorney's office announced that he faces charges of cocaine possession and disorderly conduct, with his arraignment set for June 7. He is now offering an apology for the "shameful language" he employed during the arrest.
"I’m absolutely horrified by my behavior. Had I known I used this disgraceful language in the throes of a blackout, I would have spoken up sooner," Osment shared in a statement on Thursday, April 17.
"The past few months of loss and displacement have broken me down to a very low emotional place."
"But that’s no excuse for using this disgusting word. From the bottom of my heart, I apologize to absolutely everyone that this hurts. What came out of my mouth was nonsensical garbage - I’ve let the Jewish community down and it devastates me. I don’t ask for anyone’s forgiveness, but I promise to atone for my terrible mistake."
In police bodycam footage released byon Thursday, Osment can be seen being arrested while repeatedly stating, "I'm being attacked." When asked for his name, he responds, "I'm an American." The police search the actor and find a $20 bill before placing him in a police vehicle. While interacting with bystanders, an officer opens the bill and finds a substance inside, cautioning those nearby to "be careful." The contents of the $20 bill remain unknown.
The bodycam footage reveals a witness informing an officer that Osment had been drinking at a nearby bar, but staff cut him off after he spilled a drink. The witness claimed he became "aggravated" and "argumentative" while attempting to board a ski lift, but employees refused him entry and called the police.
In the bodycam video recorded inside the vehicle, Osment can be heard saying, "I'm being kidnapped by a f------ Nazi," and later uses a racial, antisemitic slur directed at the arresting officer. Osment has faced legal issues in the past. In 2018, police were summoned due to a public verbal altercation he had at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas on Super Bowl Sunday.
If you haven’t yet come across Bel Priestley, chances are you’ll be hearing a lot more about her in the coming years. She’s not just another rising actress; she’s a voice that’s both powerful and much-needed in today’s entertainment industry. With her mix of raw honesty, charm, and fierce advocacy, Bel is becoming a game-changer—not just for her craft, but for the trans community she’s so proudly part of.
Bel’s journey to fame started on TikTok, where she began sharing her story and documenting her transition. It wasn’t about creating polished, perfect content—it was about being real. And people responded. A lot. With over 1.3 million followers on TikTok and growing numbers on Instagram, Bel became an influential figure for many trans people, offering a space for connection and support.
Her authenticity has been one of the driving factors behind her popularity. She doesn’t just share the highs but also the struggles that come with being a trans woman in a world that’s still learning how to be inclusive. Priestley’s presence online has helped normalize trans experiences, giving many people the courage to live authentically and be proud of who they are.
In 2023, Bel made the jump from social media to TV with a role that, for many, was long overdue. She joined the cast of Heartstopper—the beloved Netflix series that’s all about love, friendship, and acceptance. Bel played Naomi Russell, a confident, talented trans girl. It wasn’t just a role for her; it was a dream come true.
Naomi isn’t just a token character or a stereotype—she’s complex, strong, and someone people can see themselves in. Playing her was a huge moment for Bel, as she’s said in interviews, because Naomi is the type of person she wished she could have seen on screen growing up. Someone who was unapologetically herself, who navigated the world as a trans person and didn’t have to shrink or apologize for her existence. And watching Bel bring Naomi to life on screen, you can’t help but feel the authenticity she’s pouring into the character.
But Bel’s impact goes beyond the screen. She’s become a fierce advocate for trans rights and visibility. She understands the power of using her platform for good, which is why she teamed up with ASOS for their Out & Out series, celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility. For Bel, it’s about using her voice to amplify the voices of those who still aren’t being heard enough.
She also became part of Paramount's Generation Change initiative, which focuses on empowering women and diversifying media representation. It’s not just about her career—it’s about making sure that the next generation of trans individuals has more opportunities, more representation, and, most importantly, the chance to see themselves reflected in the stories that shape our world.
For Bel, the fight isn’t just about having a seat at the table—it’s about making sure that the table itself is big enough for everyone. She knows that trans people are often subject to prejudice and discrimination, but she’s determined to help change that, one post, one interview, and one role at a time.
At just 20 years old, Bel Priestley is already making an impact that most people could only dream of. She’s a force to be reckoned with, both in front of the camera and in her advocacy work. But what’s next for Bel? That’s the exciting part. Her career is just getting started, and it’s clear she’s not here to follow anyone’s rules.
What makes her stand out isn’t just her acting skills or social media presence—it’s the authenticity she brings to everything she does. Bel isn’t trying to fit into any box, and that’s exactly what makes her so special. She’s carving out her own space in a world that’s only just starting to understand the importance of true representation.
As she continues to build her career and her platform, one thing is certain: Bel Priestley is going to keep pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and inspiring the next generation of trans people to do the same.
Meanwhile, Bel Priestley and other trans influencers have reacted passionately to the recent Supreme Court ruling on gender and single-sex spaces. In response to the decision, which determined that "woman" and "sex" in the Equality Act refer to biological sex, Bel shared her dismay with her 1.4 million followers on TikTok, telling them that Britain was “spiraling backwards into hate.” Her post was one of many from the trans community expressing outrage over the judgment, which they feel threatens trans rights and freedoms.
The ruling has sparked a firestorm of reactions online, with influencers like Bel making it clear that they will not back down. For many, the fight for trans equality and visibility is far from over, and they’re determined to keep pushing forward, no matter the legal setbacks.
People Also Ask (PAA):
Who is Bel Priestley?
Bel Priestley is a rising British actress and social media influencer known for her role as Naomi Russell in Heartstopper and her advocacy for trans rights.
What role did Bel Priestley play in Heartstopper?
Bel Priestley played Naomi Russell, a confident and talented trans girl, in the second season of Netflix’s Heartstopper.
How did Bel Priestley rise to fame?
Bel gained prominence on TikTok, where she shared her transition journey, beauty, fashion content, and her experiences as a trans woman.
What is Bel Priestley’s advocacy about?
Bel is passionate about advocating for trans rights and visibility, partnering with brands like ASOS for Transgender Day of Visibility and working with initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in media.
What was Bel Priestley’s reaction to the Supreme Court ruling?
Bel Priestley expressed her outrage over the UK Supreme Court’s ruling on gender, calling it a backward step and voicing her concerns on social media to her millions of followers.
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Bel Priestly and other transgender influencers and advocates have vowed to defy the Supreme Court's gender ruling by ignoring any new restrictions on single-sex bathrooms that are introduced as a result.
The finding that the definition of a woman in equality law relies on biological sex implies that trans women holding a gender recognition certificate (GRC) may be excluded from single-sex spaces if such exclusion is considered 'proportionate.' Baroness Kishwer Falkner, chairwoman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), has characterized the ruling as 'enormously consequential' and has committed to taking action against organizations that fail to revise their policies accordingly.
However, it sparked an intense backlash from transgender influencers, who pledged to persist in utilizing single-sex restrooms. Meanwhile, Ella Morgan, a star from Married at First Sight, stated, 'I still myself as a woman, whether I am on paper or not'.
The 31-year-old asserted that trans people are now suffering the consequences of actions by individuals like rapist Isla Bryson.
'I hate to say this, but for the first time since I have had that title and role I actually do feel nervous and scared not only for myself but for the community because it's the unknown,' she told Good Morning Britain.
Meanwhile, trans influencers railed against the judgment on social media by posting videos of their horrified reactions, with one - Bel Priestly - telling her 1.4million followers that Britain was 'going backwards'.
@belpriestley I have no words we are truly going backwards #trans #proud
♬ What Was I Made For? (Epilogue) [Instrumental Version] - Mark Ronson & Andrew Wyatt
Trans influencers, including trans advocate Ben (@benj_99), slammed the ruling in furious social media posts.
@benj_99 The Supreme Court’s new ruling is an attack on trans people. All my trans sisters I stand with you forever and ALWAYS #fyp #foryoupage #transman #ftm #transrights
What did the Supreme Court rule?
The Supreme Court clarified that under the Equality Act 2010, the terms "woman" and "sex" specifically refer to biological women and biological sex.
Impact on Single-Sex Spaces:
Organizations, including hospitals, refuges, rape crisis centres, and facilities such as female-only hospital wards or changing rooms, may lawfully exclude transgender women—even those holding a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC)—from single-sex spaces if it's deemed proportionate and justified.
The ruling aims to provide greater certainty for institutions operating single-sex services or spaces, ensuring clarity and legal protection.
Implications for Employers:
Employers now have clearer guidance on how to handle single-sex spaces within workplaces.
Excluding transgender women from spaces designated specifically for biological women is not automatically discrimination, as clarified by this ruling.
However, transgender individuals remain legally protected against discrimination or harassment under the Equality Act's provisions on gender reassignment.
Employers must still ensure inclusive workplaces; failure to do so can result in discrimination claims.
Effect on Competitive Sports:
While the ruling does not directly cover competitive sports, it reinforces the existing trend in many sports organizations to restrict participation based on biological sex.
This clarity is welcomed by sports authorities, providing further justification for restrictions on transgender women competing in female events.
Pregnancy and Maternity Leave:
The Supreme Court's ruling acknowledges that only biological women can become pregnant. As a result, a trans man (biological female who identifies as male) remains entitled to maternity leave protections.
Conversely, a trans woman (biological male) is not eligible for maternity leave under current protections.
Overall, the ruling significantly clarifies the legal definition of sex and gender in the UK, providing clear guidelines for institutions, employers, and individuals regarding single-sex spaces, workplace discrimination, and related issues.
The UK's Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that under the Equality Act 2010, the terms 'sex', 'man', and 'woman' must be understood to refer to biological sex. The court rejected alternative interpretations, describing them as incoherent and impractical.
Delivering the unanimous judgment, Lord Hodge emphasized that the decision should not be viewed as a victory for one side over another. He acknowledged strong feelings from all perspectives, clarifying that the Equality Act continues to protect transgender individuals against discrimination.
Lord Hodge stated: "The unanimous decision of this court is that the terms 'woman' and 'sex' in the Equality Act 2010 refer to biological woman and biological sex. In a judgment written by Lady Rose, Lady Simler, and myself, with agreement from Lord Reed and Lord Lloyd-Jones, we unanimously allow the appeal."
He further stressed: "We counsel against reading this judgment as a triumph for one or more groups in our society at the expense of another. The Equality Act provides transgender people protection not only against discrimination due to gender reassignment but also against direct discrimination, indirect discrimination, and harassment in their acquired gender."
Lord Hodge highlighted that women have campaigned for equality and against sex-based discrimination for over 150 years, noting that these efforts continue. He also acknowledged the challenges faced by the transgender community, describing them as a vulnerable and frequently harassed minority struggling against discrimination and prejudice.
The court also found that interpreting sex based solely on gender recognition certificates (GRC) would undermine protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation in the Equality Act. Such an interpretation, according to the court, would have implications for lesbian identities, potentially affecting lesbian-focused clubs and associations by redefining sexual orientation categories and impacting autonomy and dignity.
Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland is facing backlash after being spotted drinking margaritas with a deported migrant and alleged MS-13 member during a recent trip to El Salvador.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, miraculously risen from the “death camps” & “torture”, now sipping margaritas with Sen. Van Hollen in the tropical paradise of El Salvador!🍹 pic.twitter.com/r6VWc6Fjtn
— Nayib Bukele (@nayibbukele) April 18, 2025
Van Hollen met with Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was deported in March under the Trump administration—despite a court order blocking his removal. The visit itself sparked some debate, but it was the margarita incident that really set off the anger.
Abrego Garcia entered the U.S. illegally in 2011. In 2019, a judge blocked his deportation to El Salvador, recognizing credible threats from gangs targeting him, but permitted deportation to another country. Recently filed court documents reveal that the Trump administration acknowledged mistakenly deporting Garcia to El Salvador. Following this error, the Supreme Court instructed the Trump administration to arrange for Garcia's return to the U.S. On Thursday evening, a three-judge panel from the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously rejected the Trump administration's request to delay a lower court's ruling. That ruling mandates sworn testimony from Trump administration officials to verify whether they properly followed the court's directive to secure Garcia’s return.
Even El Salvador’s President, Nayib Bukele, called out the senator for “sipping margaritas” with the deportee, fueling heated reactions online. Bukele wrote: "Kilmar Abrego Garcia, miraculously risen from the 'death camps' & 'torture,' now sipping margaritas with Sen. Van Hollen in the tropical paradise of El Salvador!"
The internet lit up almost instantly. Within hours of the photos surfacing, users across X and other platforms were calling out Senator Van Hollen for what they saw as a deeply misguided display—sharing drinks with a man deported under gang-related suspicions. Screenshots of the margarita moment went viral, paired with angry captions accusing the senator of turning his back on his own people.
Van Hollen hasn’t addressed the backlash head-on. But in his social media post about the visit, he shared that he’d called Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s wife “to pass along his message of love.” That line, intended as a gesture of empathy, didn’t land well with critics already fuming online.
A spokesperson aligned with the Trump camp didn’t hold back, saying Van Hollen seemed more invested in defending “an illegal alien MS-13 terrorist” than representing his constituents. The comment struck a nerve with those already questioning the senator’s priorities.
Meanwhile, El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele added fuel to the fire, posting a photo of the meeting with emojis of both countries’ flags and a handshake—an image that quickly made the rounds as another flashpoint in the drama.
Abrego Garcia entered the US illegally back in 2011. In 2019, a judge prevented his return to El Salvador, noting that he was being targeted by gang members, but said he could be deported to another country. This week, the Trump administration claimed that Garcia was mistakenly deported to El Salvador.
The Supreme Court has since instructed the Trump administration to help bring him back to the US. On Thursday, a three-judge panel from the 4th US Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously decided not to pause a judge's order requiring sworn testimony from Trump administration officials. This testimony is meant to clarify whether they followed the court's directive to assist in Abrego Garcia's return. The court criticized the Trump administration's assertion that it couldn't help Garcia escape from a prison in El Salvador or facilitate his return to the US, stating that such claims should be shocking to Americans who value their freedom, even those who are far removed from the legal system.
Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson III, appointed by Republican President Ronald Reagan, stated: "It is difficult in some cases to get to the very heart of the matter. But in this case, it is not hard at all." He added: "Cling to the hope that it is not naïve to believe our good brethren in the Executive Branch perceive the rule of law as vital to the American ethos."
Trump administration officials have said that Garcia is not the innocent American he purports to be. They allege he is a member of the notorious MS-13 gang and maintain that he should be deported to El Salvador.
Democrats are outraged over his deportation, prompting a strong response, with Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen traveling to seek clarification on the matter. In his quest to rescue Garcia, he traveled to El Salvador to advocate for his release from prison and return to the United States. However, upon his arrival to request a meeting, he was refused. As a result, he is now facing ridicule from Republicans and conservative Americans.
Additionally, a 2021 petition for protection from domestic violence filled out by Abrego Garcia's wife, Jennifer Vasquez—obtained by DailyMail.com—states that the alleged MS-13 member beat her multiple times over the years.
She informed The Post that she was "taking precautions following a disagreement with Kilmar... to prevent any escalation," citing past abuse in a previous relationship as a reason for her actions.
"Things did not escalate, and I decided not to follow through with the civil court process. We were able to work through this situation privately as a family, including by going to counseling," she added. "Our marriage only grew stronger in the years that followed. No one is perfect, and no marriage is perfect."
Kilmar Abrego Garcia was deported on March 15, after U.S. officials flagged him as having ties to MS-13—a notoriously violent gang with roots in both El Salvador and the U.S.
But that claim is being challenged. Abrego Garcia’s wife and attorney insist he has no gang affiliation, and they’ve taken legal action, accusing the government of illegally removing him despite a court order meant to protect him from deportation.
Even the Trump administration initially acknowledged the removal may have been a mistake. The Supreme Court later weighed in, ordering that the government facilitate his return.
Still, the administration hasn’t budged.
On Monday, President Trump stood side by side with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele in the Oval Office, both leaders offering a united front and pushing back against calls to bring Abrego Garcia back to the U.S.
Bukele was blunt. “How can I return him to the United States?” he asked. “Am I supposed to smuggle him in? Of course I’m not going to do that.” He dismissed the idea as absurd. “How can I smuggle a terrorist into the United States? I don’t have the power to return him.”
Trump backed him up—and took it a step further, urging Bukele to expand his country’s detention capacity.
“I just asked the president,” Trump said, turning to Bukele, “you know, it’s this massive complex that he built—a jail complex. I said, ‘Can you build some more of them, please?’”
At the heart of all this isn’t just a political dust-up or viral photo—it’s a serious legal fight over how much power the government really has when it comes to deportation. A federal court said Kilmar Abrego Garcia shouldn’t have been sent back to El Salvador, but he was anyway. That’s not just a bureaucratic slip-up—it could be a violation of the law. Now, the courts are demanding answers, and even former Trump officials may be forced to testify. The bigger issue? Whether the government has to follow the rules, even when it comes to people without legal status. And that’s a question that could reshape how we think about immigration, power, and the limits of authority in America.
As news spread about an active shooter on the FSU campus in Tallahassee, Anne-Mari Eriksen found herself among many worried parents desperately trying to reach their children at the school.
A deadly shooting on the campus of Florida State University left two people dead and six others injured after the gunman opened fire using a law enforcement-issued handgun. As the situation unfolded in Tallahassee, Anne-Mari Eriksen was among the many parents desperately trying to reach their children, hoping for reassurance amid the chaos.
What she didn’t expect was to learn—through a Thursday afternoon press conference—that her own son was the suspect.
Police identified the shooter as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner of which authorities later confirmed he was the son of sheriff’s deputy Jessica Ikner and had used her department-issued firearm in the attack.
Eriksen maintains that she is the biological mother of Ikner. She and Ikner's father were previously engaged in a contentious legal dispute, and it appears that Ikner has primarily been raised by his father and Jessica. She expressed her anger in a Facebook post around 4 PM, just moments before her son was identified as the perpetrator of the crime.
Just two hours after Anne-Mari Eriksen shared a concerning message online, a friend responded: “Are you ok?”
In the now-deleted post, Eriksen expressed frustration and alarm over her son’s well-being and his family situation.
“Horrible when your alienating son's dad is as mentally unstable as he is, along with his LCSO cop wife, that they can't respond when you write to ask if everything is alright with my son, who studies ar [sic] FSU,” she wrote.
She continued: “That whole familly [sic] is nuts. He should write a book on how to parent badly, but he can't communicate.”
Then, in a shift of tone, she added: “Feel sorry for everyone at FSU and their kids.”
Deputy Jessica Ikner
Court records reviewed in connection with the case show a complex family history. Eriksen previously faced charges for taking her son out of the United States without consent during an ongoing custody dispute. She reportedly traveled with him to Norway, where both are dual citizens.
The case was one of several disputes documented over the years. At one point, Eriksen was issued a court order prohibiting her from contacting her son, his father, or his father’s wife, Deputy Jessica Ikner. Authorities later confirmed that Deputy Ikner’s service weapon was used in the Florida State University shooting.
The court order also restricted Eriksen from engaging with her son’s school, teachers, medical providers, counselors, and extracurricular programs. She was ordered to pay over $30,000 in restitution and sentenced to 200 days in jail—170 of which had already been served at the time of sentencing.
Throughout those legal filings, her son was referred to by the name “Christian Eriksen,” though it’s believed he later changed his name. His maternal grandmother made a public attempt to reach him at one point, posting a message referencing his Norwegian citizenship and encouraging him to visit Norway.
In the years following the court proceedings, Eriksen shared social media posts related to parental alienation. She appeared to express interest in reestablishing contact with her son. There is no indication the two had reconnected prior to the events at Florida State University.
On Thursday, two adults were killed in the campus shooting. Authorities confirmed that five others were wounded by gunfire, and one additional person was injured while attempting to flee the scene. The suspect was also injured and remains hospitalized. According to police, his injuries are serious but not life-threatening.
Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell called the attack “heinous” during a press briefing and confirmed that the investigation is still active. Law enforcement continues to gather evidence and conduct interviews with witnesses and individuals who knew the suspect.
Multiple students have since come forward with accounts describing the suspect’s behavior in the months leading up to the shooting. Some stated that he was removed from a university political group after making statements that other members considered inappropriate and extremist in nature.
One former student, Reid Seybold, said the group had a zero-tolerance policy for hate speech and decided to revoke the suspect’s participation due to his rhetoric. Another student, Riley Pusins, who belonged to a different campus discussion forum, recalled that the suspect regularly attended meetings and often pushed boundaries in conversation, particularly during informal discussions.
Both students reported that while the groups were intended to be inclusive and nonpartisan, the suspect frequently expressed far-right political views and support for former President Donald Trump. According to university records, the suspect was a political science major and a registered Republican voter.
In a previous campus publication, the suspect was quoted speaking dismissively about protests following the 2024 election, stating there was little that could be done to stop Trump’s second inauguration. He described student protesters as “entertaining,” though not, in his view, effective.
According to a local church, the suspect was baptized in 2024. In the days before the shooting, he reportedly updated his Instagram biography to include a quote from the Book of Jeremiah: “You are my war club, my weapons for battle, with you I shatter nations, with you I destroy kingdoms.”
On the day of the incident, several videos surfaced on social media showing students running across campus while gunshots rang out in the background. In one widely shared clip, a wounded individual is seen being carried by emergency responders. The footage captured the intensity and confusion of the scene as it unfolded.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Authorities have not released a formal motive. The university has since increased security measures, and crisis counselors have been made available to students and staff. Community members have begun organizing vigils to honor the victims.
Officials are continuing to interview witnesses, review digital records, and examine the suspect’s online activity and associations as they work to understand the events that led to the attack.
According to Leon County court records, in 2015, Phoenix Ikner’s biological mother violated a custody order by taking him out of the state. She told the boy’s father she was simply taking him on a spring break trip, but instead, she took him to Norway.
Phoenix was around 10 years old at the time of the kidnapping.
In March 2015, Anne-Mari Eriksen, Phoenix’s biological mother, took him to Norway, against the terms of their custody agreement, as detailed in a probable cause affidavit.
While in Norway, Phoenix’s father claims that Anne-Mari repeatedly avoided his inquiries about when the child would return to the United States.
During their time abroad, Phoenix—who was still known as Christian Gunnar Eriksen at the time—missed important school tests, medical appointments, and crucial medications for his diagnosed growth hormone disorder and ADHD, as outlined in the affidavit.
In the aftermath of something this devastating, there’s often a silence—not just the emotional kind, but the procedural one. The sirens fade. The news alerts slow. And behind it all, the legal system starts to turn, quietly, piece by piece.
The suspect is still in the hospital, recovering under police watch. Once he’s cleared by doctors, the process will move forward. Prosecutors are expected to file serious charges—likely multiple counts of murder, along with attempted murder and charges related to bringing a gun onto school grounds. The legal terms are predictable, but the path ahead rarely is.
One question investigators are already digging into is how the suspect got the weapon. Authorities say it belonged to his stepmother, Deputy Jessica Ikner, who works in law enforcement. She hasn’t been accused of doing anything wrong. Still, in a case like this, when a service weapon ends up at the center of a school shooting, how it changed hands becomes part of the story—and likely part of the case.
There’s also the matter of mental health. If the suspect has a history—therapy, treatment, a diagnosis—that could influence how things unfold in court. His defense team may push for a psychiatric evaluation. Sometimes that changes how a case is argued. Sometimes it changes how a sentence is decided. These are the kinds of questions courts are built to wrestle with, even when answers are messy or incomplete.
Beyond the criminal side, there may be civil consequences, too. If anyone—on campus or off—raised concerns about the suspect that weren’t taken seriously, that could open the door to lawsuits or institutional reviews. Those kinds of proceedings take time. They happen slowly, sometimes quietly, but they matter just as much.
For now, the focus is where it should be—on the people trying to pick up the pieces. Families burying loved ones. Classmates trying to feel safe again. Faculty figuring out how to talk to students. The legal system will do what it does: gather facts, file charges, prepare for court. But the emotional weight of this moment? That’s something only time and truth can begin to carry.
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Donald Trump is prepared to walk away from brokering a Russia-Ukraine peace agreement within days unless meaningful progress is achieved, a senior U.S. official warns. If the president doesn't detect momentum toward a deal, he will pull the plug, saying he has 'other priorities' to address, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday.
'We're not going to continue with this endeavor for weeks and months on end. So we need to determine very quickly now, and I'm talking about a matter of days whether or not this is doable in the next few weeks. 'If it is we're in. If it's not, then we have other priorities to focus on as well,' Rubio made the statement in Paris after urgent meetings with European and Ukrainian leaders.
Rubio indicated that Trump remains interested in reaching an agreement but is prepared to move on if there are no immediate indications of progress. During his election campaign, Trump pledged to conclude the war within his first 24 hours in office. Upon taking office, he tempered that assertion, proposing a potential deal by April or May as challenges continued to arise. Rubio's remarks highlight the growing frustrations regarding the lack of advancement in addressing an increasing array of geopolitical issues. This follows Trump's assertion that the war in Ukraine would not have occurred "if Zelensky was competent," as he promised to "stop the killing."
On Monday, Trump attributed the war to Ukrainian President Zelensky, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and his predecessor Joe Biden, suggesting that Putin would not have invaded if he had been in power in the United States. "If Biden were competent, and if Zelensky were competent, and I question whether he is... that war should never have been allowed to happen," he stated to reporters at the White House on Monday. He reiterated his belief that "everyone is to blame" for the conflict, emphasizing, "Biden could have prevented it, Zelensky could have prevented it, and Putin should never have initiated it."
'I'm not saying that anybody's an angel, but I went four years and it wasn't even a question. He would never - and I told him 'don't do it, you're not going to do it.' And it was the apple of his eye, but there was no way that he would've done it,' he added.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Donald Trump ramped up his criticism of the Ukraine war just as his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, revealed that Vladimir Putin could be open to a “permanent peace” deal.
Witkoff, who met with the Russian leader last week, said the U.S. and Russia “might be on the verge of something very, very important for the world at large.”
Trump also reignited controversy by blaming “millions of deaths” on just “three people,” referencing the war and his recent Oval Office clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
'Let's say Putin number one, but let's say Biden, who had no idea what the hell he was doing, number two, and Zelensky,' Trump said.
'He's always looking to purchase missiles,' he said dismissively of the Ukrainian leader's attempts to maintain his country's defense against the Russian invasion.
'When you start a war, you got to know that you can win the war,' Trump said.
'You don't start a war against somebody that's 20 times your size, and then hope that people give you some missiles.'
Zelensky has made efforts to mend relations, including dispatching a delegation to Washington last week to negotiate a mineral agreement proposed by Trump, which would grant the United States preferential access to Ukrainian natural resources. However, in recent days, Trump has intensified his rhetoric, asserting that a resolution to the Ukraine conflict is achievable, despite Ukrainian claims that Moscow is delaying progress.
'I want to stop the killing, and I think we're doing well in that regard. I think you'll have some very good proposals very soon,' Trump said.
Even if Trump manages to get Russia and Ukraine to the table—and even if both sides actually agree on something—there’s still one big question that could throw the whole thing off course: would it even be legal?
Presidents do have a lot of wiggle room when it comes to foreign policy. But once a deal crosses into things like lifting sanctions, sending weapons, or giving U.S. companies special access to Ukrainian resources, that’s when Congress tends to raise its hand and say, “Not so fast.”
The Constitution lays it out pretty clearly: formal treaties need Senate approval. Of course, that hasn’t stopped presidents from trying to go around that rule before. Barack Obama’s Iran nuclear deal and the Paris Climate Accord were both done without full Senate sign-off—and both sparked serious legal and political headaches.
If Trump tries something similar, legal experts say he might hit the same wall. Congress could push back, especially if they think the deal messes with military spending, sanctions policy, or long-standing commitments. And depending on how it's structured, the whole thing could end up challenged in court or torn up by the next administration.
In other words, even if there’s political will and diplomatic movement, the legal fight might just be getting started.
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