All Law & Courts
- First LookGrand jury turns tables on Planned Parenthood accusers
David Daleiden, director of the Center for Medical Progress, and Sandra Merritt, one of Mr. Daleiden’s employees face a felony charge of tampering with a government record – a charge that carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
First LookFrom Supreme Court to the White House, US rethinks juvenile justiceOn the same day the US Supreme Court declared life sentences for juvenile offenders unconstitutional, President Obama banned solitary confinement of young inmates in federal prisons.
One state's push to return to get-tough-on-crime 1990sStates and Congress have been moving away from get-tough-on-crime laws and toward criminal justice reform. Why does New Mexico's governor want to go the other way?
First LookCalifornia inmates' escape likely an inside job, expert saysOn average, only about one in 1,000 inmates escape. But when they do, investigators often look to inside help or complacent prison cultures.
Supreme Court displays its 'evolution' in ruling on juvenile life sentencesJustice Anthony Kennedy says the decision shows the law is changing in the way it understands young offenders.
First LookAs new wave of young migrants floods US border, can US ensure their safety?An Associated Press investigation uncovers a system that allows for the abuse of migrant children in sponsors’ homes. The report raises the question of how the US will handle the arrival of yet another wave of underage refugees.
Cops and communities: Are viral videos a path to progress?A video of a Florida police officer playing basketball with local kids got the attention of millions last week, including basketball star Shaquille O'Neal. But can these feel-good videos reverse police distrust?
First LookDespite uptick in crime, officials say New York subway is world's safestThough felony assaults on the subway are up, overall crime is really low, considering that ridership has skyrocketed in the last 20 years.
California jail break: How rare are US prison escapes?The elaborate escape by three California inmates is reminiscent of a June jailbreak in New York. How often do such escapes occur?
Why New Mexico is bucking criminal justice trendsNew Mexico is toughening its sentencing laws, including a proposal would add more violent felonies to the list of crimes that make habitual offenders with three or more convictions eligible for life sentences.
263-year sentence in Oklahoma City rape case: A wakeup call for policeThe Daniel Holtzclaw case spotlights the problem of police sexual abuse. Even when cities take strong steps to address the issue, however, progress can come slowly.
Slam dunk video by Florida cop: Can positive images of police change minds?The short video stands in stark contrast to accurate but one-sided portraits of some police officers who show deep callousness – or poor judgment. The acts of kindness are also a part of that portrait.
First LookWith Oklahoma officer sentenced to life, victims can finally start to healAs former Oklahoma police officer Daniel Holzclaw learns he will spend the rest of his life in prison, his victims tell of the life-long impacts of his actions.
First LookDefamation suit against Cosby dismissed, but criminal charges remainOn Thursday, a federal judge ruled that comments made by Bill Cosby, his wife, and his attorney detailed in the suit are constitutionally protected opinions and could not be proven to be defamatory.
Ex-Oklahoma officer convicted of rape sentenced to 263 years in prisonFormer police officer Daniel Holtzclaw was convicted last month on 18 counts of sexual misconduct. His attorney said he will appeal.
Why embattled public defenders 'welcome' lawsuits against themPublic defense offices are being sued more frequently, and, ironically, it could help them do their jobs.
Kent State professor case: When does academic speech justify FBI probe?Federal law enforcement has investigated a Kent State professor on suspicion of links to ISIS, renewing a debate about the extent of academic freedom.
First Look'Sister Wives' case: Will polygamy become legal in Utah?Kody Brown and his four wives, who appear on the 'Sister Wives' reality TV show, won a 2013 lawsuit with the state of Utah over its ban on multiple marriages, based on religious freedom grounds. Why state prosecutors are challenging their win.
First LookFirst Alabama execution in two years: Does state have the correct drugs?Alabama is set to execute Christopher Brooks for a 1992 rape and murder. But his lawyers are pushing for a stay, arguing that the state's new execution drug protocol hasn't been properly tested.
First LookWhat Oregon Gov. Brown and Ammon Bundy have in commonOn Thursday, Ammon Bundy spoke with the FBI. On Wednesday, Oregon Gov. Kate Brown voiced frustration, but she seems to share a goal with leader Ammon Bundy: The federal government needs to respond.
