Friday, 3 April 2026

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Rapper Pooh Shiesty arrested after FBI raids family home

US rapper Pooh Shiesty has been arrested following a dramatic FBI raid on a property linked to his family, as part of a major federal investigation into alleged kidnapping and armed robbery.

Federal agents descended on a home in Cordova, Tennessee—believed to be connected to the rapper’s father—earlier this week. Witnesses described a heavy law enforcement presence, loud explosions, and officers using loudspeakers ordering occupants to surrender. Authorities confirmed the raid was part of an ongoing investigation tied to the artist.  

The arrest comes just days later, with the 26-year-old—real name Lontrell Williams Jr.—among eight people taken into custody across multiple US cities including Memphis, Dallas, and Nashville.  

Serious federal charges

According to the US Department of Justice, Pooh Shiesty and his alleged accomplices are facing charges of armed robbery and kidnapping stemming from an incident at a Dallas recording studio in January 2026.  

Prosecutors claim the rapper organised a meeting with music industry figures under the pretence of discussing a recording contract. However, once the victims arrived, the situation allegedly turned into what officials described as a “coordinated armed takeover.”  

Authorities allege that:

Firearms, including an AK-style weapon, were used to threaten victims

One individual was forced at gunpoint to sign a contract release

Victims were robbed of high-value items such as Rolex watches, jewellery and cash

At least one victim was violently assaulted during the incident  

There is also speculation that rapper Gucci Mane—who signed Pooh Shiesty to his 1017 label—was among those targeted, although this has not been formally confirmed by all parties.  

Father and associates also implicated

Investigators say the rapper’s father, Lontrell Williams Sr., is also among those arrested, with the FBI raid focusing on property linked to him.  

In total, nine suspects have been named in the case, with one still reportedly at large.  


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Recent release from prison

The arrest marks a dramatic turn for Pooh Shiesty, who had only recently been released from prison in late 2025 after serving time for previous firearms offences.  

He had returned to music and was attempting a comeback when the latest allegations emerged.

What happens next

If convicted, Pooh Shiesty and his co-defendants could face life imprisonment, highlighting the severity of the charges now against them. 

Attached is a News article regarding rapper Pooh shiesty arrested after FBI raids on his family home 

https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/pooh-shiesty-arrested-memphis-dallas-father-b2951042.html

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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Thursday, 2 April 2026

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Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Hundreds of youths storm shops in Clapham as chaos erupts on high street

Hundreds of young people descended on shops in Clapham, south London, sparking scenes of chaos that left businesses shutting their doors and families fearing for their safety.

The disorder unfolded along Clapham High Street, where large groups of teenagers flooded into stores, overwhelming staff and security. Witnesses described youths running through supermarkets, knocking items off shelves and clashing with police as the situation quickly spiralled out of control.  

Several major retailers, including supermarkets and fast-food outlets, were forced to close early as the crowds grew. In some cases, shoppers were locked inside stores for their own protection while police attempted to regain control outside.  

The unrest is believed to have been organised through social media “link-ups,” where large groups of teenagers coordinate meet-ups that can rapidly turn disorderly. Footage shared online showed masked youths gathering in large numbers, setting off fireworks, and targeting shops across the area.  

Police were called to multiple incidents and issued dispersal orders, with officers struggling at times to contain the scale of the crowds. More than 100 officers were deployed during the height of the disorder, and several people — including police officers — were assaulted. 

A number of arrests have been made, including teenage girls suspected of shoplifting and assault. Authorities have warned that further arrests are expected as investigations continue and video footage is reviewed.  


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London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the incidents as “utterly unacceptable,” warning that those involved would face serious consequences. Police have since increased patrols in the area and pledged a zero-tolerance approach to any further disorder.  

Local residents and business owners have expressed anger and concern, with many saying the events have left them feeling unsafe. The incidents have also raised wider questions about youth behaviour, social media influence, and policing in the capital.

Authorities are now urging parents to be aware of their children’s whereabouts and warning young people that taking part in such gatherings could lead to criminal charges.

Attached is a news article regarding hundreds of young youth storm in to shops in Clapham 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cm25yv7z3jko

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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Baby Shot by Stray Bullet as 21-Year-Old Arrested

A baby has been left fighting for life after being struck by a stray bullet in a shocking incident that has sparked outrage and renewed concerns over gun violence.

Emergency services were called to the scene after reports of gunfire rang out in a residential area. Paramedics and police arrived within minutes, finding the infant with serious injuries believed to have been caused by a stray round fired during a nearby altercation.

The child was rushed to hospital under blue lights, where doctors are working to stabilise their condition. Authorities have not yet disclosed the baby’s age or current prognosis, but described the situation as “extremely serious.”

A 21-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of firearms offences and causing grievous bodily harm. He remains in police custody while detectives continue to piece together the events that led to the shooting.

Initial investigations suggest the baby was not the intended target. Officers believe the bullet may have been fired during a dispute between individuals in the area, with the round travelling unpredictably before striking the child.

Local residents have expressed horror at the incident, describing the neighbourhood as usually quiet. One witness said: “You never expect something like this to happen, especially involving a baby. It’s heartbreaking.”


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Police have cordoned off the area and are carrying out forensic examinations, while appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. Detectives are also reviewing CCTV footage in an effort to trace the exact sequence of events.

Senior officers condemned the violence, stating: “This is a senseless and devastating act. Our thoughts are with the child and their family at this incredibly difficult time.”

The incident has once again raised urgent questions about the presence of illegal firearms on Britain’s streets, with community leaders calling for tougher action and increased policing to prevent further tragedies.

Attached is a News article regarding a baby shot by a stray bullet 

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/manhunt-underway-7-month-old-baby-killed-stray-bullet-brooklyn-rcna266345

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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Trump Delivers National Address on War Against Iran

US President Donald Trump has delivered a high-stakes national address outlining the progress and future direction of America’s ongoing war against Iran, declaring that military objectives are “nearing completion” while warning that further strikes remain possible.

Speaking from the White House in his first prime-time address since the conflict began in late February, Trump sought to reassure Americans that the campaign—reportedly dubbed Operation Epic Fury—has been a success. He claimed US and allied forces had inflicted devastating damage on Iran’s military infrastructure, including its navy, air force, missile systems and key leadership networks.  

The president framed the war as a decisive response to what he described as Iran’s long-standing threat, insisting that the operation had significantly weakened Tehran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons or support militant groups.  

However, despite the confident tone, Trump stopped short of announcing a clear end date. Instead, he signalled that the conflict could continue for “two to three weeks” and warned that the US would escalate attacks if Iran fails to meet key demands—particularly around access to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.  

The address comes amid growing global concern over the war’s economic and geopolitical impact. Oil prices have surged due to disruptions in the Gulf, while international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—a route for a significant portion of the world’s energy supply—has been severely affected.  

Trump also used the speech to defend his leadership at a time of mounting domestic criticism. Polls suggest a majority of Americans oppose the war, and concerns are rising over casualties, rising fuel costs, and the risk of a broader regional conflict.  


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Internationally, tensions remain high. Iran has denied seeking a ceasefire and has threatened further retaliation, while some US allies have expressed unease over Washington’s strategy and lack of a clear long-term plan.  

Despite these challenges, Trump struck an optimistic tone, telling the nation that the US would “finish the job” and secure what he described as a safer future. Yet analysts note that key questions remain unanswered—particularly how and when the conflict will end, and what a post-war Iran might look like.  

As the situation continues to evolve, the address marks a pivotal moment in the conflict, with the world watching closely to see whether the war moves toward resolution—or further escalation.

Attached is a news article regarding Trumps delivers speech on nation war in Iran 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/c36r5p1l7w3t

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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Masked Gang Target High Street Phone Shops in £10,000+ London Robbery Spree

A series of bold high street robberies targeting mobile phone shops across London has highlighted the growing threat of organised retail crime, with thousands of pounds worth of devices stolen from back offices in multiple boroughs.

The incidents, which took place in areas including Woolwich, Lewisham, Haringey and Sutton, saw masked offenders forcing their way into staff-only areas and stock rooms to seize high-value smartphones.

According to Metropolitan Police investigations, one of the most significant thefts occurred in Woolwich, where offenders broke into a shop’s back office and escaped with around £30,000 worth of mobile phones.  

In nearby Lewisham, a similar attempt was made earlier the same day when a group entered a high street store and demanded access to the storeroom. Staff activated panic alarms, forcing the suspects to flee empty-handed.  

Further attacks followed across north and south London. In Haringey, a gang forced entry into an O2 store’s back room and stole multiple devices, while in Sutton, another high street shop was targeted in a near-identical raid.  

Police say the criminals specifically focused on “back office” areas where the most valuable stock is kept, often using threats and intimidation against staff to gain access. In some cases, employees were assaulted during the raids.  

Organised Crime Behind Thefts

Detectives believe the robberies were carried out by an organised gang responsible for a string of coordinated attacks across the capital. The group hit at least six stores, stealing tens of thousands of pounds worth of phones in total.  

The Metropolitan Police’s Flying Squad launched a targeted investigation, analysing CCTV, phone data and forensic evidence to track the suspects’ movements. Officers eventually intercepted the gang during an attempted robbery in Sutton, arresting several members at the scene.  

Four individuals have since been convicted, with more linked to the wider operation. Sentencing is expected later this year.  


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Wider Phone Theft Crisis

The robberies form part of a broader surge in mobile phone-related crime across London, which has become a lucrative black-market trade worth millions annually. Stolen devices are often resold overseas or stripped for parts.  

Police have stepped up enforcement using surveillance, drones and specialist units, leading to a sharp drop in shop robberies since mid-2025.  

“Clear Message” From Police

Detectives say the convictions send a strong warning to others targeting high street retailers.

Officers emphasised that these crimes not only result in significant financial losses—often exceeding £10,000 per incident—but also leave lasting psychological impacts on staff forced to confront violent offenders.

The Met has pledged to continue working with retailers and telecom companies to improve shop security and prevent further back-office robberies.

Attached is a news article regarding a high street back office phone robbery across London 

https://www.mylondon.news/news/masked-gang-robbed-more-30k-33698145.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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Wednesday, 1 April 2026

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Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Inside “The Beast”: Donald Trump’s Bulletproof Presidential Limousine

When Donald Trump took office as the 45th President of the United States, he inherited one of the most secure vehicles ever built — the presidential limousine, widely known as “The Beast.” Far more than a luxury car, it is a rolling fortress designed to protect the commander-in-chief against virtually any threat.

A Moving Fortress on Wheels

At first glance, the limousine resembles a stretched Cadillac, reflecting General Motors’ long-standing role in producing presidential vehicles. But beneath its polished exterior lies a heavily fortified machine built to withstand extreme tension. 

The car’s armour is its most defining feature. Its doors are said to weigh as much as those on a Boeing 757 aircraft, while the body is reinforced with military-grade materials capable of resisting bullets, explosions, and chemical attacks. The windows, made from multiple layers of bulletproof glass, are several inches thick — only the driver’s window can open, and even then just slightly.

Advanced Security Features

Trump’s presidential limo is equipped with a range of classified technologies, but some details have been made public over the years:

Run-flat tyres reinforced with Kevlar, allowing the vehicle to keep moving even after severe damage

Sealed cabin, protecting occupants from chemical or biological threats

Night vision systems to aid driving in low visibility

Secure communication lines, enabling the president to stay in contact with military and government officials at all times

Fire suppression systems and even tear gas dispensers for emergency situations

Perhaps most notably, the limousine reportedly carries a supply of the president’s blood type, ensuring rapid medical response if needed.

Built for Power and Protection

Despite weighing an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 pounds due to its armour plating, The Beast is powered by a large diesel engine designed to move the vehicle quickly when required. While it is not built for speed like a sports car, its priority is durability, reliability, and escape capability under threat.

Trump’s Use of “The Beast”

During his presidency from 2017 to 2021, Trump used the limousine extensively for both domestic and international travel. Whether navigating the streets of Washington, D.C., or appearing at global summits, The Beast became a symbol of American presidential power and security.

Trump was known for his visible presence inside the vehicle, often waving to crowds through its thick glass — a reminder of both accessibility and the constant need for protection.


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A Symbol of Presidential Security

The presidential limousine has evolved over decades, shaped by history and tragedy, particularly after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. Each new version incorporates the latest advancements in defence technology, ensuring that the president remains safe in an unpredictable world.

For Trump, as with every modern U.S. president, The Beast was more than just transportation — it was a lifeline, engineered to handle the worst-case scenarios while projecting strength on the global stage.

Attached is a news article regarding trump presidential limo 

https://www.twz.com/news-features/new-cadillac-escalade-presidential-limo-spotted-in-davos

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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Smileband News


Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband,

South African Doctors Make History by Curing Deafness with 3D-Printed Ear Bones

In a groundbreaking medical achievement, a team of South African doctors has made global history by successfully restoring hearing using 3D-printed ear bones — a world-first procedure that could transform the lives of millions suffering from certain types of deafness.

The pioneering surgery was led by Professor Mashudu Tshifularo, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist at the University of Pretoria, and carried out at Steve Biko Academic Hospital in 2019.  

A World-First Medical Breakthrough

The procedure involved replacing the tiny bones of the middle ear — known as the ossicles (the hammer, anvil and stirrup) — using customised implants created with 3D printing technology.  

These bones play a crucial role in transmitting sound vibrations to the inner ear. When they are damaged due to injury, infection, or congenital conditions, it can result in conductive hearing loss — a form of deafness that has traditionally been difficult to treat effectively.

By reconstructing these delicate structures with precision-engineered 3D-printed implants, doctors were able to restore the patient’s ability to hear.

Restoring Hearing

The first patient to undergo the surgery was a 35-year-old man who had lost his hearing following a serious car accident. After the transplant, his hearing was successfully restored — marking a major milestone in medical science.  

The operation itself was relatively quick, lasting around one to two hours, and used minimally invasive techniques, reducing risks compared to traditional procedures.  

Why This Matters

Experts say this breakthrough could offer a long-term solution for people suffering from conductive hearing loss caused by:

Birth defects

Chronic infections

Trauma or injury

Metabolic diseases

Unlike conventional treatments, which often rely on generic implants, 3D printing allows for highly personalised solutions tailored to each patient’s anatomy. The materials used are also biocompatible, reducing the risk of rejection and improving success rates.  


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A Global Impact

Professor Tshifularo’s innovation is being hailed as a major step forward in accessible healthcare. The technology has the potential to be more affordable than traditional implants, making it especially valuable in developing countries where access to advanced treatments is limited.  

Medical experts believe this breakthrough could open the door to further use of 3D printing in surgery, revolutionising how doctors treat not just hearing loss, but a wide range of conditions.

Looking Ahead

While not all forms of deafness can be cured with this method, the success of this procedure offers new hope to millions worldwide. As research continues, 3D printing could become a standard tool in modern medicine — turning what was once permanent hearing loss into a treatable condition.

Attached is a news article regarding the first South African doctors to cure deafness using 3D printed ear bones 

https://www.up.ac.za/news/academic-pioneers-worlds-first-middle-ear-transplant-using-3d-printed-bones

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Christian Priest Burnt Alive in Taraba: Tragedy, Misinformation, and Ongoing Violence in Nigeria

Reports claiming that a Christian priest was recently burnt alive in Taraba State, Nigeria, have circulated widely online, sparking outrage and concern. However, verified information shows that while this is real, it is not a recent, but rather a tragic killing that took place several years ago.

The Original Incident

The victim, Rev. Fr. David Tanko, a Catholic priest from the Diocese of Jalingo, was brutally murdered in August 2019. He was attacked by armed bandits and burned alive in his vehicle while travelling through Taraba State.  

Father Tanko had been on his way to a peace meeting aimed at resolving longstanding ethnic tensions between the Tiv and Jukun communities in the region. His death shocked the nation, with many describing it as a devastating loss for peace efforts.  

Witness accounts and reports at the time indicated that his body was burned beyond recognition, highlighting the brutality of the attack.  

False “Breaking News” Claims

In early 2026, social media posts began resharing the story, presenting it as a new or “breaking” Fact-checking organisations have since confirmed that these claims are misleading.  

Images and descriptions used in these viral posts were traced back to the 2019, through reverse image searches and archived reports.  

This highlights a growing problem where old tragedies are recirculated without context, often inflaming tensions and spreading confusion.

Wider Context: Violence in Northern Nigeria

Although this specific घटना is not recent, it reflects a continuing pattern of violence in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the north and central “Middle Belt” regions.

Taraba State and neighbouring areas have experienced:

Armed bandit attacks

Ethnic and communal clashes

Targeting of civilians and religious figures

Recent reports indicate that churches, communities, and clergy remain under threat, with attacks on religious buildings and mass displacement of civilians continuing into 2026.  

In some cases, priests and worshippers have been kidnapped or killed, while entire communities have been forced to flee due to insecurity.  


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Calls for Action

The killing of Father Tanko remains a symbol of both the dangers faced by peacebuilders and the broader insecurity affecting Nigeria. Religious leaders and advocacy groups have repeatedly called for:

Stronger security responses

Accountability for attackers

Protection of vulnerable communities

Conclusion

While the story of a priest burnt alive in Taraba is deeply tragic, it is not a new, but a resurfaced account of a 2019 killing.

However, the underlying issue it highlights—ongoing violence and instability in parts of Nigeria—remains very real today.

Attached is a news article regarding a priest burnt alive in taraba 

https://africacheck.org/fact-checks/meta-programme-fact-checks/old-news-deadly-attack-priest-nigerias-taraba-state

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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Tuesday, 31 March 2026

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Federal judge halts White House ballroom construction

A US federal judge has ordered an immediate halt to the construction of a controversial new ballroom at the White House, dealing a major setback to one of Donald Trump’s flagship renovation projects.

The ruling, issued by US District Judge Richard Leon, centres on a key constitutional question: whether a sitting president has the authority to significantly alter the White House without approval from Congress. In a strongly worded decision, Judge Leon concluded that such authority does not exist, stating that no law supports the president’s unilateral action.  

Why the project was stopped

The planned ballroom—reportedly costing around $400 million and spanning roughly 90,000 square feet—was intended to host large-scale events such as state dinners and official receptions.  

However, the project quickly became the subject of legal action. The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a lawsuit arguing that the construction breached federal law and threatened the historical integrity of the White House, a building that is nearly 230 years old.  

Judge Leon agreed that the case was likely to succeed, ruling that construction must stop “unless and until Congress” formally authorises the project.  

Legal and political implications

The decision reinforces the principle that the White House is not the personal property of any president, but a national institution governed by law. Judge Leon emphasised that the president acts as a steward of the building, not its owner.  

Importantly, the ruling does not permanently cancel the ballroom. Instead, it places the project on hold until Congress decides whether to approve it. Lawmakers now have the option to pass legislation allowing construction to continue legally.  

The court has also allowed a 14-day window before enforcement takes full effect, giving the Trump administration time to appeal the decision.  

Trump’s response

President Trump reacted angrily to the ruling, defending the ballroom as a project funded by private donors and claiming it would not cost taxpayers anything. He also argued that previous White House renovations had not always required explicit congressional approval.  

Despite the legal setback, the administration has signalled its intention to challenge the decision in higher courts.


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What happens next

The future of the ballroom now rests largely with Congress and the appeals process. If lawmakers grant approval, construction could resume. If not, the project may face permanent cancellation.

For now, the ruling represents a significant legal check on presidential power—and a reminder of the constitutional limits surrounding even the most ambitious White House projects.

Attached is a news article regarding the federal judge stops White House ballroom construction 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c7056exw78xo

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 

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Sean Garner convicted over fatal XL Bully attack

A 31-year-old man has been convicted following a fatal dog attack that shocked a community and reignited debate around dangerous breeds in the UK.

Sean Garner, from Liverpool, was found guilty at Liverpool Crown Court of being the owner of a dog that was dangerously out of control causing injury, after his XL Bully fatally mauled an elderly man.  

The fatal attack

The victim, 84-year-old John McColl, was attacked in February 2025 in Warrington, Cheshire, after he walked onto the driveway of Garner’s home.  

The XL Bully, named Toretto, launched a sustained and brutal attack. Prosecutors told the court the dog “savaged” the pensioner and guarded him “as if he were its prey”, preventing members of the public from intervening.  

Despite attempts by bystanders to stop the attack using nearby objects, the dog continued mauling Mr McColl until armed police were forced to intervene. Officers ultimately shot the animal multiple times to bring the situation under control and allow emergency services to reach the victim.  

Mr McColl was taken to hospital with catastrophic injuries but tragically died around a month later.  

Disturbing details revealed in court

The trial heard deeply distressing evidence about the severity of the attack. A post-mortem examination of the dog revealed human remains in its stomach, underlining the extreme nature of the incident.  

Jurors were also told that the dog had effectively stood guard over the victim, preventing immediate medical assistance.  

Garner had previously admitted to possessing banned XL Bully-type dogs without the required exemption certificates, which are mandatory under UK law.  

Owner’s defence and actions

During the trial, Garner claimed he had taken precautions and insisted the dog had been secured before the incident. He said he was “devastated” and would not wish such an attack on anyone.  

However, prosecutors argued the dog was not adequately contained. Evidence suggested it was able to access the driveway area where the attack occurred.  

After the attack, Garner initially failed to return home when contacted by police and instead went on the run before later handing himself in, a detail that was also presented during proceedings.  


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Wider context and public concern

The case comes amid growing concern over XL Bully dogs in the UK. The breed has been subject to strict regulations, including bans on breeding and requirements for registration, muzzling, and insurance.  

This tragic incident adds to a series of serious and fatal attacks involving powerful dog breeds, intensifying calls for tougher enforcement and responsible ownership.

Conclusion

Sean Garner’s conviction marks a significant moment in the ongoing national conversation about dangerous dogs.

For the family of John McColl, the verdict brings a measure of justice—but also serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences when powerful animals are not properly controlled.

Attached is a news article regarding Sean garner found guilty over fatal XL bully attack on pensioner 

https://news.sky.com/story/owner-of-xl-bully-that-savaged-84-year-old-man-found-guilty-13524972

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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