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Congressional Ethics and Sexual Misconduct

House Ethics Committee investigations into multiple members and ongoing accountability battles over congressional misconduct

Platner faces mounting calls to withdraw from Maine Senate race after assault allegation

Illustration accompanying article: Platner faces mounting calls to withdraw from Maine Senate race after assault allegation
  • Graham Platner faces a new sexual assault allegation from a former partner, leading top Democrats to demand he withdraw from the Maine Senate race.
  • Jenny Racicot, 41, said in a Politico interview that Platner entered her home uninvited and sexually assaulted her while allegedly intoxicated; she said she told him the encounter was not consensual.
  • Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and at least three other Senate Democrats called on Platner to drop out; the DSCC said it will not invest in the race if he remains on the ballot.
  • Platner must withdraw by July 13 to be removed from Maine's ballot, adding urgency to the party's efforts to replace him.
 2026-07-07 · 3 MIN READ

Senate Ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego

Illustration accompanying article: Senate Ethics panel dismisses misconduct complaint against Ruben Gallego
  • The Senate Ethics Committee dismissed a misconduct complaint against Sen. Ruben Gallego after an investigation, finding no evidence he violated federal law, Senate rules or related standards of conduct.
  • The complaint, filed by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.), alleged campaign finance violations and inappropriate conduct of a sexual nature.
  • The committee sent Gallego a letter dated June 26 noting his "full cooperation" and said it retains the authority to revisit the matter if additional facts become known.
  • Gallego called the allegations "right-wing conspiracies" and said Luna should apologize for "weaponizing the ethics process."
 2026-06-29 · 3 MIN READ
Illustration accompanying article: California voters pick Swalwell successor in special primary

César Chavez Day rethought as supporters confront abuse allegations

2026-03-31

Supporters of César Chavez on Tuesday wrestled with how to honor his legacy after allegations that he groomed and sexually abused women and young girls surfaced in reporting this month. As states and local governments marked what had long been “César Chavez Day,” some officials moved to rename the holiday or cancel celebrations, while others grappled with whether monuments and public recognition can coexist with the claims.

OneTaste co-founder sentenced to 9 years in forced labor case

2026-03-31

OneTaste Inc. co-founder Nicole Daedone was sentenced to nine years in federal prison in Brooklyn on Monday in a forced-labor conspiracy case, prosecutors said. A judge said the sex-focused “orgasmic meditation” program exploited vulnerable women. Daedone was also ordered to forfeit $12 million, and seven victims were awarded about $890,000 in restitution, federal prosecutors said.

Chavez supporters wrestle with legacy amid abuse allegations

2026-03-30

Supporters of labor leader César Chavez are grappling this week with how to honor his legacy after allegations of sexual abuse emerged, and with how quickly officials and communities are changing longstanding tributes. The Associated Press reported that states, cities and counties marked what had long been considered César Chavez Day on Tuesday as Farmworkers Day, with some offices closed and many celebrations canceled or renamed. The unease is spreading beyond politics and into personal relationships, as advocates and attorneys weigh what to keep, what to remove, and what to learn.

Ethics panel finds Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick committed 25 violations

2026-03-28

The House Ethics Committee has found Florida Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick committed 25 ethics violations, a ruling that could add momentum to Republican efforts to expel her from Congress. The panel said it would recommend a punishment in coming weeks after a hearing that stretched into early Friday morning.

Ethics panel weighs allegations against Florida congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick

2026-03-27

The House Ethics Committee held a rare public hearing on Thursday into alleged ethics violations by Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida, as expulsion threats loomed ahead of November elections, the Associated Press reported. The panel planned to issue its judgment after the nearly seven-hour hearing, which followed a yearslong investigation that committee investigators said included “a mountain of evidence.”

Savannah Guthrie asks public for tips in missing mother case

2026-03-25

Savannah Guthrie appealed for help finding her 84-year-old mother after NBC aired a brief segment of her interview with Hoda Kotb on Wednesday’s “Today.” Guthrie, speaking in a tearful first interview since her mother was reported missing on Feb. 1, said “someone needs to do the right thing” and urged anyone with information to come forward.

Women farmworkers keep fighting sexual abuse, even after Chavez legacy

2026-03-23

Women farmworkers and advocates described how Dolores Huerta joined others in raising awareness about sexual violence in agriculture, including allegations against César Chavez. They said grassroots networks led by women have grown since the early days of the U.S. farm labor movement, pushing for enforcement, training and policy changes while working to help victims come forward.

Taylor Tomlinson’s Netflix special films at Grand Rapids church

2026-03-22

Taylor Tomlinson filmed her Netflix special “Prodigal Daughter” inside Fountain Street Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a congregation leaders describe as welcoming her edgy material. The special, which includes sexual themes and profanity, was released Feb. 24 and features Tomlinson addressing her conservative Christian upbringing.

UFW faces Chavez abuse allegations as it pushes for farmworker protections

2026-03-21

The United Farm Workers union is publicly grappling with allegations that its cofounders César Chavez and Dolores Huerta abused girls during the movement’s heyday, while continuing to seek stronger labor protections for farmworkers. In a report published March 20, Associated Press outlined the UFW’s shrinking membership footprint, its influence during Chavez’s era and today, and the union’s current legal and legislative fights.

California lawmakers seek rename of César Chavez Day after abuse allegations

2026-03-20

California lawmakers said Thursday they plan to move forward with legislation that would rename César Chavez Day as Farmworkers Day, following allegations of sexual abuse involving the late labor leader. Gov. Gavin Newsom said he supports the proposal, and lawmakers said the bill would go to his desk for approval.

As Zambia nears election season, women report ‘sextortion’ demands

2026-03-19

Lusaka, Zambia — As Zambia approaches its Aug. 13 national elections, politicians and women’s rights groups warned that some female candidates are being asked for sexual favors by senior male party officials in exchange for endorsements. The warning followed comments by the permanent secretary of Zambia’s Gender Division, Mainga Kabika, who said she received 10 complaints alleging sexual harassment from women seeking party backing.

Mystikal pleads guilty to third-degree rape in Louisiana case

2026-03-19

Rapper Mystikal, whose given name is Michael Lawrence Tyler, pleaded guilty Tuesday in Louisiana to third-degree rape in a case stemming from an alleged assault at his Prairieville home nearly four years ago, according to court records. Tyler, 55, pleaded guilty in an Ascension Parish courtroom and has been held without bond in the Ascension Parish Jail since 2022.

Shaquille O’Neal to pay funeral costs for Georgia girl after fight

2026-03-19

Shaquille O’Neal said he is offering to pay for the funeral of Jada West, a 12-year-old Georgia girl who died at a hospital after collapsing days earlier following a fight after school. O’Neal’s offer was announced in a joint news release by the sheriffs of Douglas County and Henry County, where the fight occurred and where O’Neal holds a role as community relations chief.

Idaho lawmakers order independent review of sexual assault in women’s prisons

2026-03-19

Idaho lawmakers have ordered an independent review of how the state handles allegations of staff sexual misconduct in women’s prisons after an InvestigateWest investigation, the Associated Press reported. In a meeting March 13, bipartisan members of the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee directed the Idaho Office of Performance Evaluation to assess prevention, reporting, investigations and response—and to recommend improvements.

Mamdani wants to stop city legal support for ex-Mayor Adams in sex suit

2026-03-18

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration wants to withdraw from representing former Mayor Eric Adams in a civil lawsuit accusing Adams of sexually assaulting a woman more than three decades ago, according to a court filing filed Tuesday. The city argues Adams was not acting within the scope of his employment when the alleged assault occurred in 1993, while Adams denies the allegations.

Sinema acknowledges security-guard romance as NC alienation lawsuit proceeds

2026-03-15

Former Sen. Kyrsten Sinema acknowledged in a court filing that she had a romantic relationship with a man she hired as part of her security detail, even as she seeks to dismiss a North Carolina lawsuit brought by his ex-wife. The lawsuit, filed under the state’s “alienation of affection” law, accuses Sinema of interfering in the couple’s marriage.

Kouri Richins convicted of aggravated murder in husband’s fentanyl death

2026-03-15

Kouri Richins was convicted Monday of aggravated murder in the fentanyl poisoning death of her husband, Eric Richins, prosecutors said. The Utah woman, who self-published a children’s book about coping with grief, also was found guilty of attempted murder, forgery and insurance-related fraud, in a trial that ended after she waived her right to testify.

Wisconsin legislator pleads no contest to disorderly conduct charge

2026-03-14

A Wisconsin lawmaker pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge tied to a dispute within her Assembly Democratic caucus over resolutions honoring Hispanics. The plea was entered during a Friday hearing in Milwaukee County, according to court records cited by The Associated Press.

Celebrity chef René Redzepi resigns from Noma after abuse claims

2026-03-13

René Redzepi, the founder and chef behind Denmark’s famed Noma, stepped down after abuse and assault allegations drew new attention online. In a Thursday Instagram post, he said Noma had taken steps to change its culture and that his resignation acknowledged that “an apology is not enough.”

US Sen. Jon Husted testifies remotely in ex-FirstEnergy corruption trial

2026-03-11

Republican U.S. Sen. Jon Husted testified Wednesday that he was present at a 2018 dinner with then-Ohio Gov.-elect Mike DeWine and two former FirstEnergy executives who are accused of bribing a top utility regulator. Husted, who testified remotely, said he recalled little about what was discussed and said he was not aware the executives planned to meet DeWine’s eventual pick to lead the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, Sam Randazzo.

US Sen. Jon Husted testifies at Ohio corruption trial via remote call

2026-03-10

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Republican U.S. Sen. Jon Husted testified Wednesday, remotely, that he attended a 2018 dinner with then-Ohio Gov.-elect Mike DeWine and two former FirstEnergy executives now on trial for alleged bribery of a utility regulator. Husted said he recalled little about what was discussed and denied knowing that the executives planned to meet DeWine’s eventual pick to lead the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio right after the dinner.

Ted Carter Jr. resigns as Ohio State president after relationship disclosure

2026-03-10

Ohio State University President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. resigned after the university said it was investigating “inappropriate access” to Ohio State leadership linked to “an inappropriate relationship.” Carter, 66, told the board of trustees he was responsible for the mistake, and the board said it was surprised and disappointed by the disclosure.

Former Missouri House speaker gets 21-month sentence for COVID relief fraud

2026-03-09

A federal court sentenced former Missouri Republican House Speaker John Diehl to 21 months in prison Monday after he admitted using federal COVID-19 relief loans for personal expenses, including country club dues, swimming pool maintenance, home mortgage payments, and vehicle costs. Diehl received approximately $380,000 in Small Business Administration loans for his law firm between 2020 and 2022 through a pandemic relief program designed to help businesses cover operating expenses.

Savannah Guthrie visits “Today” studios off camera after mother’s disappearance

2026-03-06

Savannah Guthrie made an off-camera appearance Thursday at NBC’s “Today” show studios to thank colleagues for their support since her mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing from an Arizona home a month ago. NBC said Guthrie will return to the air at some point but is focused on supporting her family and helping bring Nancy home.

Texas Rep. Gonzales drops reelection bid after admitting affair with aide who died by suicide

2026-03-06

Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas announced late Thursday he would not seek reelection, one day after publicly admitting an extramarital affair with a former congressional aide who later died by suicide. House Speaker Mike Johnson and the top four members of House GOP leadership had called on Gonzales to exit his race earlier that day. The House Ethics Committee has opened an investigation into his conduct.

Savannah Guthrie visits “Today” studios off-camera amid search for Nancy

2026-03-05

Savannah Guthrie made an off-camera visit Thursday to NBC’s “Today” show studios, her first since her mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing from her Arizona home about a month ago. A “Today” spokesperson said Guthrie plans to return to the air at some point but is focused on supporting her family and helping bring Nancy home.

Florida university investigates racist slurs in GOP group chat

2026-03-05

FIU launched an investigation into racist, antisemitic and misogynistic language in a group chat connected to a Miami-Dade Republican Party official. The university said campus police are investigating the students involved in coordination with local, state and federal law enforcement.

Gonzales Acknowledges Affair, House Ethics Committee Opens Inquiry

2026-03-04

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas acknowledged for the first time that he had an affair with former aide Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who later died after setting herself on fire, as the House Ethics Committee announced it was initiating an investigation. Gonzales made the admission Wednesday on the “Joe Pags Show,” saying he “made a mistake” and would cooperate with the panel’s review.

Ethics panel opens investigation of Rep. Nancy Mace over housing reimbursements

2026-03-04

The House Ethics Committee has opened an investigation into allegations that Rep. Nancy Mace overcharged a congressional program meant to help lawmakers defray housing costs in Washington, according to a report released Monday. Mace, a South Carolina Republican in her third House term, denied the allegations and said the process is “partisan,” AP reported.

Prosecutors charge Wisconsin legislator Sylvia Ortiz-Velez with disorderly conduct

2026-02-26

Prosecutors have charged Wisconsin state Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez with disorderly conduct in connection with a feud over who helped draft resolutions honoring Hispanics last year, according to court filings. The charge is a misdemeanor that could bring up to 90 days in jail if she is convicted in Milwaukee County Circuit Court.

Couple settles Massachusetts lawsuit against eBay over harassment campaign

2026-02-26

A Massachusetts couple reached a settlement in their lawsuit against eBay after they said former company employees carried out a harassment campaign against them that included bizarre anonymous deliveries and threats. Boston U.S. District Judge Patti Saris dismissed the case after the parties settled, according to court proceedings referenced in the lawsuit.

Ex-PA officer accused of child rape killed in gunfire exchange

2026-02-26

A former Pennsylvania police officer accused of child rape was killed early Wednesday in a gunfire exchange with police in Bala Cynwyd, according to the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office. Francis Connell Collier, 38, had been charged in Delaware County with sexually assaulting two girls more than two decades ago, and Morton police said he resigned after being placed on unpaid administrative leave.

Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales refuses to resign amid affair allegations

2026-02-25

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales on Tuesday resisted growing calls from fellow congressional Republicans to resign over allegations of an affair with a former staffer who later died after setting herself on fire. Gonzales told reporters he would not step down, saying there will be “opportunities for all of the details and facts to come out,” as House Speaker Mike Johnson said he would speak with him.

Texas congressman denies blackmail claim over alleged affair with deceased staffer

2026-02-20

Texas congressman Tony Gonzales on Thursday denied being "blackmailed" following a report that he allegedly had an affair with a former staffer who died after setting herself on fire in 2025. The married Republican, running for reelection in the state's March 3 primary, claimed on social media that the deceased woman's husband was seeking money through a potential lawsuit.

Man in northern Sweden suspected of selling sex with wife to 120 men

2026-02-17

A prosecutor in northern Sweden told The Associated Press that a man in his 60s is suspected of exploiting his wife and selling sex with her to at least 120 men. Prosecutors said the man has been in custody since October after the woman reported the incidents to police, and they are preparing charges of aggravated procurement.

Nigerian rock artist helps people pause and feel loved amid Lagos stress

2026-02-13

In Lagos, Nigeria, rock musician Bianca Okorocha, known as “Clayrocksu,” has taken her music from the stage to the streets ahead of Valentine’s Day, serenading commuters and handing out single-stem roses. She spoke with The Associated Press about wanting people to pause and feel loved in a city defined by fast pace and economic strain. She also said she wants Valentine’s Day to be seen as sharing love beyond romantic couples.

Investigation into missing Nancy Guthrie enters third week, with new forensics

2026-02-13

Law enforcement in Tucson, Arizona, is building additional evidence as the search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of “Today” host Savannah Guthrie, enters its third week. Authorities say Guthrie, 84, was last seen Jan. 31 at her home, and that her porch blood was found after she was reported missing. The FBI has released surveillance videos of a masked person it called a suspect, while investigators are also testing DNA and reviewing tips and leads.

Sheriff leading Nancy Guthrie probe faces scrutiny as case enters second week

2026-02-12

Phoenix-area authorities leading the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie have released new surveillance video this week, while local critics have raised questions about how Sheriff Chris Nanos is managing the case. Guthrie, the mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, was last seen Jan. 31 at her home outside Tucson. Nanos, the Pima County sheriff, is scheduled for increased scrutiny as the search enters its second week.

Republicans reject anonymous complaint accusing Tulsi Gabbard of mishandling intel

2026-02-06

A top-secret complaint from an anonymous government insider alleging that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard withheld classified information for political reasons has been rejected by Republican leaders of the House and Senate intelligence committees, according to responses shared with lawmakers and lawmakers who reviewed the document. The rejection, issued this week by Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. Rick Crawford, means the complaint is unlikely to move forward, while Democrats questioned why it took Gabbard’s office about eight months to refer it to Congress as required by law.

Mississippi panel bills fail to advance public registry of domestic abusers

2026-02-05

Mississippi lawmakers killed five bills this week that would have created a public, searchable registry of people convicted of repeat domestic violence offenses, according to the Associated Press. The proposals died when they missed a Tuesday deadline to move out of committee, and advocates said the registry could help people assess risk and hold offenders accountable.

What to know about search for Savannah Guthrie’s missing mother in Arizona

2026-02-05

The search for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, continued in the Tucson area after authorities said the 84-year-old was apparently kidnapped. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told The Associated Press on Friday that he remains concerned about her health because she “requires medication,” as days pass without proof she is alive.

Jill Biden’s first husband charged with killing wife in Delaware

2026-02-04

Former first lady Jill Biden’s first husband, William Stevenson, has been charged with killing his wife at their Delaware home in late December, Delaware authorities announced. Stevenson, 77, was arrested Monday and remains in jail after failing to post $500,000 bail, according to the state. Jill Biden declined to comment through a spokesperson, and authorities said police found a woman unresponsive after being called to the home for a reported domestic dispute after 11 p.m.

Florida congresswoman pleads not guilty in $5M COVID-19 funds case

2026-02-04

MIAMI (AP) — Florida U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick pleaded not guilty Tuesday to federal charges accusing her of conspiring to steal $5 million in COVID-19 disaster relief funds, nearly three months after her indictment. Her attorney, William Barzee, entered the plea in federal court in Miami while she was in Washington, D.C.

Ex-IRS agent Brendan Banfield convicted in ‘au pair affair’ double murder

2026-02-03

Brendan Banfield, a former IRS law enforcement officer, was found guilty in Virginia on Monday of killing his wife, Christine Banfield, and Joseph Ryan in a case prosecutors described as an “au pair affair” ruse. Prosecutors said Banfield and Juliana Magalhães impersonated Christine Banfield on a fetish website to lure Ryan to the house and stage his death. Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano said the verdict brings closure for the families of the two victims, whose deaths drew attention in Brazil, the U.S. and elsewhere.

Trial begins for ex-FirstEnergy executives in $60M Ohio bribery case

2026-02-02

Opening statements began Tuesday in Akron, Ohio, in the state trial of ex-FirstEnergy executives charged in a bribery scheme tied to the state’s utility regulator. Prosecutors say a $4.3 million payment to veteran lawyer and lobbyist Sam Randazzo in 2019 was paid in exchange for regulatory and legislative favors later delivered to FirstEnergy. Chuck Jones and Michael Dowling pleaded not guilty to felony corruption charges.

Former Sierra Club Foundation director sues over internal racism allegations

2026-02-01

A former director at the Sierra Club Foundation, the charitable arm of the Sierra Club, filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in California state court, alleging internal racism and retaliation for complaints about discrimination and lack of diversity. Pedro da Silva, 29, says the foundation’s racial-justice commitments did not extend internally and that workplace interactions were “twisted” into a harassment complaint based on racist stereotypes. The Sierra Club Foundation said it is “vigorously defending” its decision to fire him.

Jury begins deliberations in Virginia “au pair affair” double murder case

2026-01-31

Jurors in Virginia began deliberating Friday on whether Brendan Banfield, a former IRS law enforcement officer, conspired with his family’s Brazilian au pair, Juliana Magalhães, to kill his wife, Christine Banfield, and pin the killings on another man. Prosecutors said Banfield and Magalhães shot Joe Ryan and staged the scene to make it look like Ryan attacked Christine Banfield with a knife, while Banfield denied any plot. The case will decide whether Banfield faces life in prison if convicted of the double murders.

Third Georgia lawmaker accused of COVID unemployment fraud

2026-01-31

Federal prosecutors have charged Georgia state Rep. Dexter Sharper with allegedly making false statements to collect $13,825 in unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic, AP reports. Sharper is a Valdosta Democrat who, prosecutors say, certified he was not earning money and was looking for work while he was working multiple jobs. Sharper declined to comment, citing ongoing litigation.

Mississippi bills would establish repeat domestic abuser registry

2026-01-23

Mississippi lawmakers are considering legislation that would create a public registry for people convicted of multiple domestic violence offenses, a measure aimed at alerting potential victims to their abusers' histories. The bills are supported by domestic violence advocates and a survivor whose experience prompted the effort.

Nevada lieutenant governor faces ethics complaint over book promotion

2026-01-22

Nevada Lt. Gov. Stavros Anthony faces an ethics complaint alleging he used his office's social media account to promote his book for personal financial gain, in violation of state law. The complaint, filed by political consultant Lindsey Harmon, a former Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Votes, contends the conduct may constitute both an ethics violation and a category E felony under Nevada state law.

Complaint alleges Washington legislator misused campaign funds

2026-01-22

Washington state Rep. Tarra Simmons faces an ethics complaint alleging she improperly used $30,000 in surplus campaign funds by directing donations to a Nevada-based nonprofit with no active platform and no federal filings since 2021. The complaint, filed Jan. 12 with the Washington Public Disclosure Commission, links the nonprofit to Jovan Jackson, another first-time formerly incarcerated legislator now serving in the Nevada Legislature.

Kemp suspends Georgia lawmaker over unemployment fraud charges

2026-01-22

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp suspended state Rep. Sharon Henderson from office Thursday following her indictment on federal unemployment fraud charges. A state review commission found that the charges against the Democratic legislator hurt her ability to perform her duties, and Kemp accepted that determination.

Missouri House reprimands lawmaker for sexually vulgar text to colleague

2026-01-22

The Missouri House of Representatives voted Thursday to reprimand Democratic state Rep. Jeremy Dean for sending a sexually vulgar text message to Republican colleague Cecelie Williams during a September redistricting protest. The penalties include barring him from House committees, requiring him to stay at least 50 feet away from Williams, and undergoing additional sexual harassment training.

Georgia ex-lawmaker pleads guilty to pandemic fraud

2026-01-21

Karen Bennett, a former Georgia House member, pleaded guilty Wednesday to lying to collect federal pandemic unemployment benefits. The 70-year-old physical therapist fraudulently obtained $13,940 in federal assistance designed for those harmed by COVID-19. Bennett will repay the funds and faces sentencing in April.

Florida congresswoman's COVID funds arraignment rescheduled to Feb. 3

2026-01-20

A federal judge in Miami rescheduled the arraignment of U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick to Feb. 3 on Tuesday, granting the Florida Democrat two more weeks to finalize legal representation in her federal fraud case. Cherfilus-McCormick is charged with conspiring to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds. Judge Enjoliqué A. Lett granted the delay at the request of the defense; prosecutors did not object.

Sinema sued over alleged role in bodyguard’s marriage breakup

2026-01-16

Former U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema is facing a lawsuit in North Carolina that alleges she interfered in a security guard’s marriage and contributed to its breakup. The complaint, filed in Moore County and later moved to federal court, seeks at least $75,000 in damages from Sinema. The suit alleges that Sinema pursued Matthew Ammel even after learning he was married and includes claims about communications, employment, and paid treatment.

Au pair testifies ex-lover plotted wife's death in Virginia double homicide trial

2026-01-14

A former Brazilian au pair testified Wednesday in Fairfax, Virginia, that her ex-lover had spent months planning to kill his wife and had enlisted her in a scheme designed to make the killing appear to be an act of self-defense. Juliana Peres Magalhães told the court she came forward because she "wanted the truth to come out," saying she could no longer keep to herself "the feeling of shame and guilt and sadness." Magalhães, who pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the 2023 killings, is now the prosecution's central witness against Brendan Banfield.

Dueling narratives open Virginia 'au pair affair' double murder trial

2026-01-13

Prosecutors told a Fairfax County, Virginia, jury Tuesday that Brendan Banfield used a fake online profile and a staged sexual scenario to lure a stranger to his home as part of a plan to kill his wife, while defense attorneys countered that the prosecution's star witness invented her account after more than a year of maintaining her innocence.

Nebraska Sen. McKeon resigns ahead of expulsion vote over harassment allegations

2026-01-13

State Sen. Dan McKeon resigned from the Nebraska Legislature on Tuesday just minutes before the full chamber was set to debate expelling him over accusations that he made a sexually charged comment to a legislative staffer and touched her inappropriately during a session-end party last May. McKeon, a Republican from rural south-central Nebraska who had served less than one year in office, delivered a tearful apology on the legislative floor before stepping down. "My words and actions were careless, regardless of the intent," McKeon said. "I accept my responsibility for the impact of my words and my actions."

L.A. Reid settles sexual assault lawsuit with record executive Drew Dixon

2026-01-12

Grammy Award-winning music producer Antonio "L.A." Reid settled a sexual assault lawsuit Monday with former record company executive Drew Dixon, who alleged he assaulted her twice in 2001 and undermined her career when she refused his continuing advances. The settlement was reached in New York on the day jury selection was scheduled to begin. Terms were not disclosed.

Virginia man goes to trial in double homicide; au pair pleaded guilty to manslaughter

2026-01-11

A northern Virginia man charged with killing his wife and another man in what prosecutors call an elaborate scheme to frame the second victim for his wife's murder goes to trial Monday on aggravated murder charges, with his co-defendant already having pleaded guilty to a reduced charge. Brendan Banfield faces two counts of aggravated murder in the February 24, 2023, deaths of Christine Banfield and Joseph Ryan at the Banfields' home in Fairfax County. He has pleaded not guilty.

Ramaswamy says alarmed after federal drug charges against family bodyguard

2026-01-10

Republican Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said he was alarmed after federal drug trafficking charges were filed against a man who worked as his family’s bodyguard. The bodyguard, Justin Salsburey, and his wife, Ruthann Rankin, were charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute narcotics through the U.S. mail, according to federal complaints summarized by The Associated Press.

Ramaswamy says he was alarmed after bodyguard faces federal drug charges

2026-01-09

The Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said he was alarmed after federal drug-trafficking charges were filed against a man who worked as his family’s bodyguard, according to a campaign spokesperson. The man, Justin Salsburey, and his wife, Ruthann Rankin, face conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute narcotics charges tied to parcels mailed to their home in western Ohio, the Associated Press reported.

Nebraska senator faces historic expulsion vote over harassment allegations

2026-01-08

Nebraska lawmakers opened the 2026 legislative session Wednesday with a motion to expel Sen. Dan McKeon, a Republican, over allegations that he made a sexually charged remark to a legislative staffer and touched her inappropriately at a session-end party last May. If the full Legislature votes to remove him next week, it will be the first expulsion in the body's history. McKeon, 59, said he has no plans to resign.

Second Georgia Democratic lawmaker charged over pandemic unemployment fraud

2026-01-06

Federal prosecutors on Monday charged former Georgia state House member Karen Bennett with one count of making false statements to collect $13,940 in federal pandemic unemployment benefits, making her the second Georgia Democratic legislator accused of defrauding a COVID-era aid program. Bennett, of Stone Mountain, waived indictment, pleaded not guilty and was released on $10,000 bail after a federal court appearance. She had resigned from the House the previous Thursday.

New Haven police chief abruptly retires amid money theft allegations

2026-01-06

New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson abruptly retired after allegations he stole money from a department account that compensates confidential informants, Mayor Justin Elicker said Monday. The mayor said Jacobson admitted taking the funds for personal use, after deputies confronted him over irregularities earlier that day. Interim Chief David Zannelli was named to lead the department.

Ethics watchdog questions intern hire by chief of staff to Georgia Sen. Mike Collins

2026-01-06

A congressional ethics watchdog said in a report released Monday that there is substantial reason to believe Brandon Phillips, former chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Mike Collins, improperly hired his girlfriend as an office intern. The Office of Congressional Conduct found that the woman was paid $5,044 in November and December 2023 and $5,244.44 in October through December 2024 for work in Collins’ Georgia district office.

Mississippi lawmakers rarely hear public testimony as hearings move fast

2026-01-04

Mississippi residents often lack formal ways to provide public comment or testimony during state legislative committee hearings, where bills can be considered with little discussion. The Associated Press reports that hearings are frequently last-minute and that the House does not livestream or record committee meetings. Advocates and researchers say structured opportunities—such as posted agendas and remote participation—help legislators weigh the impacts of policies on the people affected.

Patriots’ Christian Barmore charged in domestic assault case in Massachusetts

2026-01-01

Patriots defensive lineman Christian Barmore faces a domestic assault and battery charge after a criminal complaint alleged he threw his girlfriend to the ground at his home outside Boston in August. Mansfield Police said the woman reported the incident to police on Aug. 25, and the complaint was filed Dec. 18.

Florida congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick maintains innocence in COVID funds case

2025-12-31

Outside a Miami federal courthouse on Dec. 29, U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick reiterated that she is innocent as she faces federal charges accusing her of conspiring to steal $5 million in COVID-19 disaster funds. Her arraignment was scheduled, but her lawyer sought and received a rescheduled Jan. 20 hearing. Cherfilus-McCormick’s attorney said the case involves mistakes that do not amount to felonies and argued the prosecution is politically motivated.

Patriots’ Stefon Diggs charged with strangulation, assault; denies allegations

2025-12-31

New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs faces a felony strangulation or suffocation charge and misdemeanor assault and battery tied to an incident involving his former private chef, police said. Diggs, through his attorney, denied the allegations in a statement ahead of an arraignment scheduled for Jan. 23.

Former Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell dies at 92

2025-12-30

Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a former U.S. senator and House member from Colorado known for advocacy on Native American issues, died Tuesday at 92, according to his daughter, Shanan Campbell, who confirmed his death to The Associated Press. The Democrat who later joined the Republican Party was remembered for his bipartisan work on children’s rights, organized labor, and fiscal conservatism.

Florida Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick maintains innocence in $5M COVID funds case

2025-12-30

Miami-based federal prosecutors say Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick conspired to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds meant for pandemic vaccination work, but the Florida Democrat maintained her innocence on Dec. 29 outside a Miami federal courthouse. A hearing that was set for arraignment lasted less than five minutes after her attorney asked to reschedule it to Jan. 20 to finalize her legal team, with the judge agreeing.

Patriots WR Stefon Diggs charged with strangulation, denies allegations

2025-12-30

New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs faces strangulation and other criminal charges in connection with an alleged dispute involving his former private chef, Massachusetts police said. Diggs’ lawyer, David Meier, said Diggs “categorically denies these allegations,” and an arraignment is scheduled for Jan. 23, according to court information.

Florida Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick maintains innocence in $5M COVID funds case

2025-12-29

U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick reiterated her innocence Monday outside a Miami federal courthouse, where she faced charges accusing her of conspiring to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds. Her arraignment was rescheduled to Jan. 20 after her attorney asked for more time to finalize her legal team.